Christmas market, lanterns and fireworks planned for weekend of celebrations in Ironbridge
The two-day event will take place later this month
Ironbridge Gorge will host a weekend of celebrations later this month, bringing together Christmas, Telford Day and the 40th anniversary of the Gorge being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Taking place from 12pm to 8pm on Saturday, November 28 and Sunday 29, the weekend will feature a packed programme of activities, including an illuminated trail, live iron casting demonstrations, lantern displays, live music and festive markets.
On Saturday, the Wharfage will be transformed for a day of festive celebrations, with more than 100 craft, food and drink stalls, a family fairground and live entertainment.
The day will culminate in a Christmas lantern parade, followed by the Christmas lights switch-on and a fireworks display.
The celebrations will continue on Sunday with Telford Day - the borough’s annual celebration of civic pride - with activities showcasing the traditional skills, heritage and natural environment of the Gorge, before a special evening finale featuring lanterns, fire performances, live music and illuminated coracles on the River Severn.
A Telford Day Lantern Garden will showcase more than 100 lanterns created in community workshops across the borough.
Throughout the weekend, an entertainment yurt in Dale End Park will play host to local musicians, alongside a range of food and drink options.
Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: “Telford Day is an opportunity for communities across our borough to come together and celebrate the people, places and stories that make Telford and Wrekin special.
“This year, Telford Day will form part of a special weekend of celebrations in Ironbridge Gorge, alongside the Gorge’s Christmas festivities and the start of a year marking 40 years of UNESCO World Heritage status.
“There will be lots to see and do across the weekend and we’d love to see residents come along, enjoy the celebrations and join us in marking Telford Day.”
A Park & Ride service from Jiggers Bank will operate from 11am to 9pm across the weekend, alongside a shuttle service from Madeley and additional parking at National Trust sites at Blists Hill and Coalbrookdale.
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