Town set to bloom as festival looms

Renowned for bringing a bright and bold mix of world-class performers to the heart of the Yorkshire Dales each summer the event runs from Friday, June 17, to Saturday, July 2.

And in a determined bid to win Yorkshire in Bloom this year, the festival has a horticultural flavour, so organisers are planning for “a summer garden party like no other”.

The festival kicks off on with a Blooming Marvellous carnival parade through the village heralding the start of two weeks of artistic merriment.

From blooming to booming, the evening continues with thunderous Japanese beats from the Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers in the Town Hall.

Starting in the Square, Saturday has more musical treats on offer with the high octane Peatbog Faeries performing in the Town Hall.

And for those seeking a wholly different experience award winning theatre company, Slung Low will be enabling the long hidden stories of the past to be heard today over at the now derelict Linton Camp.

Tickets for all events are now on sale at the Festival Box Office, Grassington Hub, 2 Garrs Lane, Grassington. They can be booked online at www.grassington-festival.org.uk or by calling 01756 752691.

Festival director Amelia Vyvyan said “We’re really looking forward to a packed programme with plenty to enjoy. We’re really excited about the calibre of artists who are visiting Grassington again this summer, it really is just a bit special seeing them in our intimate venues rather than large theatres or arenas.

“The whole village develops a sense of fun during the festival which is lovely to be a part of, I only wish there were more hours in the day for those two weeks of the year.”