Events in the Peak District

29th May

Castleton Garland is a flower-covered framework  covering the Garland King, who leads a procession on horseback around the village accompanied by his Queen. It is over 3 feet high and weighs around 30 kg! Spectators are given sprigs of oak to adorn themselves (even dogs take part in this!). The band plays a special tune and the procession includes children who perform the Garland Dance at stops en route before gathering at the maypole for a ribbon dance. Afterwards the garland is winched up the church tower, until the flowers have wilted. The origins of the custom are obscure and go back centuries but the King and Queen wear Stuart costume and 29th May is Oak Apple Day (commemorating the restoration of King Charles II) so there may be a link with a  Seventeenth Century revival.

What better way to enjoy a visit to the Peak District and Derbyshire than by marvelling at the well dressings that are lovingly – and painstakingly – created by hand each year.

Teams of villagers create intricate mosaics using natural materials such as leaves, moss, flower petals and even coffee beans, on a bed of rich, moist clay. Each one can take anything up to a week to make, needless to say, well dressers have the patience of saints! Some well dressings can be viewed ‘in the making’ and you may even be able to help before they go on show.

There are many events throughout the week, ending with a carnival on the 2nd Saturday.

Buxton Festival is a summer celebration of the very best opera, music and literature, at the heart of the beautiful Peak District.

A morning literary series, afternoon concerts and rarely-performed opera in the evening offer a rich cultural experience, attracting big names and a faithful audience. Competitively priced tickets provide the opportunity to enjoy a broad range of arts events for all.

Buxton is one of the only Festivals to specialise in producing rarely performed operas by major composers – each opera is staged uniquely for the intimate Opera House. In addition to the Festival’s own productions, several touring operas feature on the programme.

Our artistic policy is to produce high quality and rarely performed operas, complementing the work of other major opera companies. We also involve the people of Buxton and the Peak District in arts activity through our community and education programme.

http://www.buxtonfestival.co.uk

THE MOUTHWATERING APPETISING ASHOVER WILL BE BIGGER THAN EVER!

SHEEP DOG DISPLAY AND FARRIER DISPLAY

GRAND PARADE; ASHOVER BRASS BAND; PUNCH & JUDY

CHILDRENS’ RIDES; TUG OF WAR; WIDE VARIETY OF TRADE STANDS

Sheepdog trials, show jumping, heavy horses, alpacas, cattle and sheep, including rare breeds, gundog competitions, vintage cars and motorbikes, vintage tractors and engines, horticultural tent, crafts, Plus lots of children’s attractions.

A truly traditional show for all the family.

All the fun of the fair

The Chatsworth Country Fair is one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor events. Held in the Chatsworth Park in the heart of the Peak District in Derbyshire, it attracts visitors from all over the country for a family fun day out.

At Christmas the village takes on a magical appeal with pretty lights, decorations and an array of Christmas trees, which attracts visitors from far and wide.

10.30am to 4.00pm (last admission 3.30pm) Haddon Hall opens its doors in the run up to Christmas. Beautiful decorations using natural materials sourced from the Estate.

Christmas trees on sale in the Car Park.

Please check Haddon Hall’s website for full details.

Christmas is everyone’s favourite time of the year, especially at Chatsworth. That’s why every year the house is transformed as they decorate the lower floors of the house to get everyone in the festive spirit. Each year they choose a different theme so please keep your eyes and ears open for the announcement of this year’s theme. Keep an eye on their calendar as they publish events and activities for the whole family over the winter period. From truly magical nativity performances in the farmyard starring their own farm animals, to gourmet evenings, floral workshops and wreath making demonstrations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Or if you prefer to get your Christmas shopping off to an early start, you can browse the range of gift shops, visit the Christmas market with over 100 stalls of gifts for the whole family, and why not stop for a mulled wine and mince pie. Select rooms on the upper floor of the house will be closed for annual conservation during the Christmas season.