With over 20 events spread over several days in September, WordFest has already been creating quite a buzz in Gainsborough.
And this weekend sees the festival’s main event taking place, which will see the town’s historic Market Place transformed into a literary village, with authors, illustrators, artists and book gift stalls, providing a veritable feast for the bookish.
WordFest is all about bringing people together through music, words, pictures and sounds, offering something delightfully literary for everyone.
Horse drawn carriage rides will run from the Market Place to the Library throughout the day, with visitors encouraged to channel their inner Jane Austen and dress in Bridgerton-inspired attire.
Two special market stalls will display work that has been created by local people in workshops held during the summer, including a book of short stories, Gainsborough Voices (with author Gill Blow) and a display of art journals (with artist Tracey Jones).
Free activities include children’s craft by Ally Pally Arts, a Doodleboard for all and Poetry on a Roll from Helen Hagon. Come along and take part!
There’s quiet time in the story-telling tent, with stories from the Broadbent Theatre and children’s author Jacqueline Evans with Jake the three-legged Dog.
The Market Place will also host pop-up theatre by a young people’s theatre group and Oskar will be playing delightful tunes from his accordion – the Squeezebox of Delights.
The town’s monthly Farmers’ and Craft Market will also take place, giving WordFest visitors even more to enjoy.
The day will also feature BBC journalist Sharon Edwards, who will be reading from her children’s book The Most Dangerous Spy at Gainsborough Library at 11.30am. The reading is free to attend, however booking is advised. Please contact the library via email or pop in during their opening times. Suitable for ages 8+.
Sharon will also present the Summer Reading Challenge certificates before her reading at 10.30am.
Cllr Jeanette McGhee, one of the ward members for Gainsborough, encouraged people to get involved. She said:
“Throughout September, WordFest has already been offering people the chance to take part in and see a variety of literary-based attractions and activities, and this Saturday the main event will build on this to really create something special for everyone to enjoy.”
For more details on WordFest and the events throughout September visit Discover Gainsborough