As always, we are kicking off the festival in unforgettable style with an opening parade through the town centre, brought to life this year by the brilliant Scratchbuilt Productions! Get ready for a joyful explosion of colour, creativity and community spirit as we take to the streets to celebrate nature, biodiversity, the magic of recycled costumes, and everything gloriously green.
Expect eye-catching dresses, towering puppets and incredible creations made with love by our talented local schools, colleges, and community groups all coming together in a lively, feel-good procession through the heart of town.
Bring your friends, bring your energy – and come cheer them on as over 500 people move through the town centre in a long eco conga parade!
Be part of the parade
Want to immerse yourself in the fun? Join the parade! Come down at 5pm and show your support by wearing something green.! Whether it’s a splash of lime or head-to-toe emerald, let’s create a vibrant wave of eco-consciousness together.
Prefer to watch the magic unfold? Line the route from Church Street all the way up to the Willis Museum and then follow the excitement as it heads through the Top of the Town to the Amphitheatre outside Festival Place. Get ready to be captivated by creative displays, imaginative costumes, and a community united in their passion for a greener future.
The celebration reaches its peak at the amphitheatre, where multi––award– winning progressive brass band, Perhaps Contraption, will lead the audience as we conclude the Festival Parade before being treated to a breathtaking ariel performance by the internationally acclaimed Autin Dance Theatre. Don’t miss the première of their new dance piece, promising to be a stunning end to the first night.
Parade timings
5.30pm Parade starts at on Cross Street
(Processing up Church Street and down Wote Street into Festival Place, finishing at the Festival Place Amphitheatre)
6.15pm Performances at the Festival Place Amphitheatre begin
