www.free-events.co.uk

Best free events in the UK - Festivals, Carnivals, Parades, Shows, Fireworks etc

A non-commercial listing of hundreds of amazing events - many free.

Updated 03 Jul, 2009

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Paradise Gardens Festival	Lewes Raft Race	London Brighton Bike Ride Video	Bracknell Big Day Out Video	Greenwich Festival

PRIDE LONDON - SATURDAY - 500,000 EXPECTED   Pride London Streets and Squares Video 14:00-20:00 Five super stages - all free. Attendance 500,000. 04 Jul 2009 Pride London Saturday 13:00 Parade (assembles 11:00 Baker Street) Oxford Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall. Trafalgar Square Main Stage Leicester Square Pop Stage Dean Street Womens Stage. Carlisle Street Urban Stage. Soho Square Dance Stage.

04 Jul 2009 St Paul's Caribbean Carnival, Bristol Saturday. A mini Notting Hill with 60,000 revelers. 13:00 Procession from Portland Square. Mas bands, Static Sound Systems, carnival food and drink. If you like carnivals, you will love St Pauls. 0117 944 4176. St Pauls Caribbean Carnival Route Static Sound Systems Brochure

28 Jun - 04 Jul 2009 Big 7 Festival, Kent Gravesend Riverside Leisure Area. Map 03 Jul 2009 Friday - The Big Parade with Kinetica. 18:00 Gravesend town centre to the Riverside Leisure Area main stage. 03 Jul 2009 Friday - The Big Gig. 19:00 Riverside Leisure Area. Local bands, singers, dancers and entertainers - free out-door event. 04 Jul 2009 Saturday - The Big Day Out. Live music, theatre performances, the annual regatta, the carnival, stilt walkers, horticulture displays, art, kids workshops, stalls, funfair, evening entertainment on the main stage and fireworks. Free entrance.

04-05 Jul 2009 ROTW- Rythms Of The World, Hitchin Sat-Sun. Hitchin Priory, Tilehouse Street SG5 2DL.12:00-23:00 on Saturday and 12:00-21:00 on Sunday. World music and dance on six stages, a children’s area, art displays and grass sports arena in 20 acres of parkland. Attendance 23,000. About £5. Video

03-05 Jul 2009 Southwark Irish Festival, London Fri St.Thomas More Hall SE22. Ceili night. Sat 11:00-18:30 Peckham Common. Irish dancing, music & sports. Sun 11:00-19:00 Peckham Common. Music stages, dancing & family entertainment. Free entrance. 07958 903410 bernardcahill2004@yahoo.co.uk

03-12 Jul 2009 Birmingham International Jazz Festival More jazz per square metre than New Orleans - multiple venues citywide. The All Star Jam Session, featuring the largest gathering of first-class British jazz musicians in recent memory, takes place at the Botanical Gardens on Thursday 09 July at 19:00. Tickets £10 - 0121 454 7020 or 0121 454 1860. Jazz Festival at Star City, free admission: Kenny Ball & His Jazzmen, the Alan Price Set, and ex James Brown bandleader Pee Wee Ellis. Programme

04-05 Jul 2009 Aldershot Army Show Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00. Attendance 60,000. The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery Musical Drive The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Freefall Parachute Display Team The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team A Battle Display showcasing 21st Century military capability Army Tug-of-War Championships The Shetland Pony Grand National Wavell School Rock Challenge Rockwood Dog Display Team Mini tank rides Interactive army sports village Circus workshop, games arena, childrens entertainer Childrens farmyard, childrens bakery Craft marquee Simulators, hovercraft rides, bungee launcher & dodgems Refreshments 200 traders and exhibitors Community events and a host of family activities

02-05 Jul 2009 Winchester Hat Fair. Thu-Sun. A weekend of absurd and enchanting street theatre. Sunday 12:00-18:00 Picnic in the Park at Oram's Arbour, with performances, food market, crafts and children's workshops. Winchester Hat Fair   Thu Fri Sat Sun Video

04-05 Jul 2009 International Friendship Festival, Sunderland 11:00-17:00 Northern Area Playing Fields, Washington. Kite festival, street theatre, exhibitions, international food, world music, K’NEX robot construction and an assault course. Free.

04 Jul 2009 Sharrow Festival, Sheffield Saturday 12:00-20:00 Mount Pleasant Park. Two music stages, global food, crafts, circus skills & street dance. Free. 20 Jun - 05 Jul 2009 Sharrow Fringe. Art Exhibition, film night, community picnic, poetry, live Music & African dance workshop.

03-05 Jul 2009 Banbury Hobby Horse Festival Fri-Sun. Entertainment on Saturday from 10:30 - morris dancing, mumming, general horsing about and mayhem around town. 15:00 procession down High Street. 13:30 Town Mayor's Sunday - parade of beasts, morris dancing, beer tent, comic cockhorse races for adults and children (feel free to enter a team), sideshows, fairground rides, teas, children's fancy dress on cockhorses.

03-05 Jul 2009 Godiva Festival & Carnival, Coventry Fri-Sun. Friday evening fireworks. Carnival parade 11:00 Saturday, led by Lady Godiva on horseback - University Square to Memorial Park. 60,000 visitors. Live music, comedy, human circus, greenspace, crafts, funfair, events arena with jousting etc. Free. Godiva Festival

04-05 Jul 2009 Paddle Round The Pier, Brighton Sat-Sun. Mad cap charity water event attracts 30,000 people. Races throughout the weekend. Saturday night party, paddle surfing , sea fishing contest, pimp-my-lilo contest, slalom skate contest, streetsurfing, childrens entertainment area, scooter challenge, off-shore sea rescue display, concert arena, bikini competition / hunks in trunks and retail village. Video

26 Jun - 12 Jul 2009. Chichester Festivities.

2009 DRAGON BOAT EVENTS Gable Events Charity Dragon Boat Calendar 02 Jul 2009 London Challenge, West Reservoir 05 Jul 2009 ChildFlight Challenge, Salford Quays Manchester 12 Jul 2009 Northampton, River Nene 15 Jul 2009 Cardiff Challenge, Cardiff Bay 18 Jul 2009 Alton Water Ipswich 18 Jul 2009 Rother Valley Country Park Sheffield 19 Jul 2009 St Ives Challenge, River Ouse Nobel’s Field 02 Aug 2009 [TBC] Nottingham Challenge, River Trent 02 Aug 2009 Epilepsy Action Challenge, Roundhay Park, Leeds 08 Aug 2009 RNLI Regatta, Dover Harbour 09 Aug 2009 Manchester Race, Salford Quays 31 Aug 2009 Dream Away, The Quay Exeter 12 Sep 2009 Cambridge Festival, River Cam Fen Ditton

Free Events & Exhibitions on London's South Bank. Events Exhibitions

20 Jun - 19 Jul 2009 Earl’s Court Festival, London. A month of fresh, vibrant world of dance, film, theatre, live music, visual art, street performers, literary and scientific events - free or reasonably priced. 02 Jul Open Air Jazz, Brazilian Jazz sextet Samara.  06 Jul Garden Party, Earl’s Court Square with cream teas and Pimms. 11 Jul The Bolton’s Big Lunch - Home grown food turned into a delicious sit-down lunch for 150 people. 09-19 Jul Visual Art Exhibition 11 Jul classic Jazz and world music. 17 Jul Open Air Film - West Side Story. Relax comfortably in one of the marquees provided. Ticket line 020 737 00015

Poole Summer Breeze on the Quay. Live music, street entertainment, family activities and fireworks from 19:00 every Thursday in June & July. Thu 02 July Thu 09 July Thu 16 July Thu 23 July Thu 30 July

Pride Events 04 Jul 2009 London 04 Jul 2009 Derby 10-12 Jul 2009 Bournemouth 10-12 Jul 2009 Manchester Sparkle 16-19 Jul 2009 Torquay 18 Jul 2009 Thanet 25 Jul 2009 Nottingham 25 Jul 2009 Hull 25 Jul - 01 Aug 2009 Belfast 01 Aug 2009 Brighton 08 Aug 2009 Truro 08 Aug 2009 Cheltenham 0 8 Aug 2009 Stoke 15 Aug 2009 Black London 15 Aug 2009 Plymouth 15 Aug 2009 Swindon 16 Aug 2009 Doncaster 21-31 Aug 2009 Manchester 22 Aug 2009 Lincolnshire 05 Sep 2009 Reading 13 Sep 2009 Barnsley 08 Oct - 08 Nov 2009 Glasgow

British Lawn Mower Races 04-05 Jul 2009 Heddington and Stockley Steam Rally 01-02 Aug 2009 Wisborough Green 12 Hour Lawn Mower Race. 22-23 Aug 2009 [TBC] 05-06 Sep 2009 The Great Maze, Blake House Craft Centre, Braintree. 19-20 Sep 2009 World Championships 03-04 Oct 2009 Knebworth Game and Country Show, Herts 17-18 Oct 2009 The Bat and Ball Extravaganza & Grass Cutters Ball. events@blmra.co.uk

04 Jul 2009 Greenford Carnival, London. 12:00-20:00 Ravenor Park. Main stage featuring music and dance, acoustic stage, sports and a family areas. Ukulele band, Irish dance, kids magic, face painting, birds of prey, market stalls and funfair activities. Entrance £1.

04 Jul 2009 Stamford Riverside Festival. Saturday 11:00-23:00. Stamford meadows, Stamford, Lincs. Biggest free music and arts event in the area. Hosting 30 musical acts on three stages - acoustic, rock and dance. Real ale beer festival, arts tent, kids activities and stalls. Attendance 10,000.

04 Jul 2009 Maindee Festival, Nr Newport. Saturday. 12:00-18:00. Free community arts event and vibrant parade. Live music, traders, stalls and international food and drink.

04-05 Jul 2009 Wellingborough Carnival and Party in the Park. Sat 13:00 Parade, Broad Green to Croyland Park. Sun 12:00 live music by local bands in Croyland Park. Free. 07979 506120.

20 Jun - 05 Jul 2009 Peterborough Festival 04-05 Jul Sat-Sun Embankment and riverside Town and Country Fair and Boat Festival. Market stalls selling traditional goods and local produce, animal displays including birds of prey and shire horses and a range of traditional vehicles.

Weymouth Events 04-12 Jul 2009 Spirit of the Sea Festival 04-05 Jul 2009 SW Open Water Swimming Championships 04-10 Jul 2009 Tornado Europeans & Nationals Event 05 Jul 2009 Tudor Picnic in Sandsfoot Gardens. 05 Jul 2009 Portland 10 mile road race 05 Jul 2009 Dorset Tour – Lodmoor Country Park 05 Jul 2009 Weldmar Family Fun Day 05 Jul 2009 Sail Laser Trysail Days 08 Jul 2009 Bustinskin Aquathlon Series 09 Jul 2009 Steam Train visit to Weymouth Station 09–12 Jul 2009 Henri Lloyd Weymouth Regatta

Vulcan To The Sky 0116 247 8145 04-05 Jul 2009 Waddington Air Show 11 Jul 2009 Lasham Flypast 18-19 Jul 2009 Fairford Air Tattoo 05-Sep 2009 Victory Air Show 20-Sep 2009 Goodwood Revival

Offshore Power Boat Racing. OCRDA - Offshore Circuit Racing Drivers Association. Very spectacular power boat racing, with speeds up to 80mph. Free to watch. "To offshore powerboat racing what saloon car racing is to motorsport". Events run throughout the UK each year, and the sport is rising in popularity. Video 04-05 Jul 2009 Plymouth 18-19 Jul 2009 Ilfracombe 08-09 Aug 2009 Gravesend 29-30 Aug 2009 Cowes 05-06 Sep 2009 Margate 19-20 Sep 2009 Salcombe - National Finals 02-06 Nov 2009 Coniston

04-05 Jul 2009 Nottingham Caribbean Carnival. Sat-Sun. 12:00-21:30 Forest Recreation Ground. Procession 14:00 Sunday from Sherwood Rise. Attendance 80,000. Free.

04-12 Jul 2009 Spirit Of The Sea, Weymouth. Major new Maritime Festival in preparation for the 2012 Olympics. High profile events including Marine Ex Trade Show, Henri-Lloyd Weymouth Regatta, World Moth Sailing Championships, Dorset Seafood Festival, Maritime Modelling Festival, J24 National Sailing Championships, western Counties Long Distance Swimming Championships and Gig Regatta. There are also plans for the festival to include a `Three Sheets to the Wind' Party at the Nothe, Live Music on Beach Stage, Harbour side entertainment and a sea themed Procession "moving tide".

05 Jul 2009 Keynsham Music Festival, Bristol. Sunday 12:00-22:00 Memorial Park, Keynsham. Some of the best unsigned bands in the region as well as lots to do for the family, delicious food, real ales, stalls, creative workshops. Free entrance. Top Stage Fairtrade River Stage Time Out Stage Performance Stage

05 Jul 2009 Brent Respect Festival, London. Sunday. 13:00-21:00 Roundwood Park, Harlesden NW10. Family festival with an attendance of 20,000. 

05-12 Jul 2009 Rainbow Film Festival. Rainbow Film Society is delighted to present the Rainbow Film Festival, taking place in various venues around East London and throughout London. The festival will screen films from Asian countries including short, documentary and features, all with English sub-titles. Possible venues are Rich Mix Cultural Foundation, Genesis Cinema, the Brady Arts Centre and Museum in Docklands. Celebrates the diversity of Asian culture, with films from Bangladesh, India, Iran, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Turkey and the U.K. Showcases established artists and emerging talent.

RHS Flower Shows 07-12 Jul 2009 Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 22-26 Jul 2009 RHS Show Tatton Park 11-13 Sep 2009 Wisley Flower Show 26-27 Sep 2009 Malvern Autumn Show 13-14 Oct 2009 London Autumn Harvest Show 16-17 Feb 2010 RHS London Plant & Design Show RHS Gardens

09 Jul 2009 Stepping into the Spotlight - Step LIVE! 2009 Over 200 students from schools in 11 London boroughs, taking part in the Step into Dance programme funded by the Jack Petchey Foundation and led by the Royal Academy of Dance; will come together in a toe tapping celebration of dance and young people’s achievements. Bursting with life, energy and colour Step LIVE! will deliver a fully inclusive programme promising an evening with something to please everyone! 7pm, Thursday, 9 July at the Mermaid Conference & Events Centre. Tickets are £5 (plus 0.50 booking fee) in advance and £7 on the door. Tickets can booked online at www.wegottickets.com Visit www.stepintodance.org to a view video clip of last year’s performance and the Borough events so far."

09-12 Jul 2009 Lord Mayors Celebration, Norwich. Thu-Sun. Includes a carnival, fireworks, two-day music festival, funfair, street entertainers, dancers, samba, dragon parade, outdoor comedy and cinema. FRI - 21:00-22:30 The Dragon Parade - night carnival from the Cathedral to The Forum. SAT - 11:00-24:00+ City Centre, Chapelfield Gardens, Haymarket - Funfair, Music Festival, Street Entertainers, Open Air Party, 5km Classic Road Race (18:30 www.conac.org.uk), Street Procession (18:45) lively dancers, bands, floats and carnival characters. Chapelfield Gardens Music Festival till late - Funk, hip hop, Dhol and Samba. Fireworks 22:30 Norwich Castle. 01603 212136.

10 Jul 2009 Waterloo Carnival, London. Friday 13:30-20:30. Procession of 300 people at 13:30. Live music outside Cubana from 13:00. Music and cabaret stage at Walrus Social from 18:00-20:30.

?? Jul 2009 [TBC] Brighton Baby Expo. Sunday 10:30-17:30 The Brighton Centre. Premium parenting event. 100 companies participating, showcasing a large range of goods and services for the pregnancy, birthing, baby and early years. Mums, dads, grandparents, parents-to-be and ‘baby-planners’ are already pre-registering online for free entry. Babies and children will enjoy Sing and Sign demos, baby massage, face-painting and storytelling and fun play zones etc. Grown-ups can enjoy meeting a range of exhibitors, as well as midwives. Judy DiFiore, published author and exercise guru will be advising on ante/post natal fitness. Parents-to-be will be offered ultrasound on the day of the show.

10-11 Jul 2009 Romsey Beggars Fair. Fri-Sat. Music, dance and street entertainment, Romsey, Hampshire. Folk, jazz, blues and world music, colourful dance displays and children’s entertainment. From big bands on the Cornmarket stage to acoustic music in gardens and pub sessions - the day has a great atmosphere. Free event. Venues Programme

10-12 Jul 2009 Bourne Free, Bournemouth. Fri-Sun. Sat 13:00-14:00 Pride Parade from Meyrick Park. Sat 14:00-17:00 Live Show at The Bandstand. Sat 17:00-23:00 Street Party at The Triangle. www.bournefree.co.uk

10-12 Jul 2009 The Big Weekend, Cambridge. Three days of free entertainment on Parkers Piece, including this year, the Cambridge Childrens Festival. Family Fun Day supported by John Lewis. Enjoy live music, fireworks on Friday, brilliant kids’ activities, fair rides, walkabout characters, stalls and the ever-popular French market.

10-12 Jul 2009 Reedham Beer Festival & Fete Weekend. Village Hall & Field, Reedham, Norfolk. Food fair, craft fair, boot sale, live music, morris dancing, barbeque and family activities. Sat 12:00-22:00, Sun 12:00-17:00. More info from Humpty Dumpty Breweries. 01493 701818.

11 Jul 2009 Uckfield Festival Big Day Out Saturday 13:30 Giant Street Procession, High Street to Luxford Field. International market in Civic Approach - 100+ stalls. Luxford Field - Uckfield FM, community stalls, street theatre, clowns, buskers and arena events.   Jazz Concert with 17 piece band Ziz Horns. Bring the family, your picnic and rug and maybe a bottle of wine and prepare for a balmy summer evenings entertainment. Free admission. Uckfield Festival

11 Jul 2009 Bermondsey Beat, London. Saturday. Southwark Park, SE16. 12:00 - 22:00. Provisionally: Carnival parade 12:00 - 13:00 Spa Road to Southwark Park. Skydiving, live bands, food, fun fair and fireworks. Attendance 30,000. Free.

11 Jul 2009 Lewisham Peoples Day Saturday Mountsfield Park. An eclectic mix of entertainment including music, dance and wonderful street theatre as well as children’s activities, sports, fashion shows and crafts. Attendance 30,000. Free entrance. What's On

11 Jul 2009 Barge Driving Match, London. Saturday. Unique 7 mile barge row between the Palaces of Greenwich and Westminster. The event is very skilled, navigating under oars, using strength, experience and the tide to propel craft, which can weigh up to 30 tonnes. No more than three crew members can row at any time using the 20ft oars. Two of the rowers power the craft whilst the third steers. Popular with spectators, who watch from pleasure craft or vantage points on the bridges. Other barge events

11 Jul 2009 [TBC] Huddersfield Carnival. Saturday. 13:00 Carnival Parade leaves the HUDAWI African-Caribbean Centre, Great Northern Street - costumed Mas Bands dancing to music. 13:00-20:00 Greenhead Park main stage - Free admission. One of the largest outdoor festivals in West Yorkshire. Map

11 Jul 2009 Littlehampton Carnival. Saturday. 10:00-14:00 Town Centre & Southfields Recreation. Band Displays, Irish Dancing, Pom Pom Displays, Steel Band, Orchestra, Fancy Dress, Tombola, Other Stalls and Childrens Rides. 16:30 Carnival procession lines up in St. Winefrides Road, Littlehampton. 17:00 Judging. 18:00 Move off taking seafront and town centre route. 20:00 Estimated time of arrival at Southlands recreation ground for presentation of trophies and Coles funfair. Contact: Freda Hughes - 01903 716634. Littlehampton Carnival

11 Jul 2009 Kelvedon Music Festival, Essex. Saturday. 12:00-19:30. Two live music stages. Free entrance. Map

11-12 Jul 2009 Tewkesbury Medieval Festival. FREE Sat-Sun 11:00-18:00 Gloucester Road. Europe´s biggest medieval event with a battle featuring 2000 knights, archers and men at arms, a colourful and authentic living history camp, and a market selling everything from medieval pots and authentic costumes to toys and individual jewellery. Huge procession through the town, led by a 25 ft tall female giant leaves The Old Black Bear at the top of the High Street at 11:00. Historian Robert Hardy CBE will be giving a talk on the history of the English Long Bow. On Saturday Evening Theatre of Alchemy will be putting a spectacular fire show in the vicarage garden.

Imperial War Museum Duxford Air shows 11-12 Jul 2009 Flying Legends Air Show - Sat-Sun 05-06 Sep 2009 The Duxford Air Show - Sat-Sun 11 Oct 2009 Autumn Air Show - Sunday More Events

11-12 Jul 2009 Emergency Services Display, Eastbourne. Sat-Sun Western Lawns. The largest public display of the emergency services in the UK. Promotes the 999 services to the community. Arena events, including Police Dog demonstration, extinguishing kitchen fires and mock road crash scenes demonstrating the emergency response. There are sea-borne displays from the RNLI and Coastguard and it is anticipated helicopters from the Police, Coastguard search & rescue, and a fixed wing Coast Guard search plane will fly by. Attendance 30,000. More

11-12 Jul 2009 ClogFest 2009 Sat-Sun. Clog dancers from all over England gather in Skipton, North Yorkshire, on the second weekend in July to celebrate English Step Dance. Sat 11 Jul 2009 Free performances - 10:30 The Canal Basin, Coach Street, 11:15 Holy Trinity Church, 12:00 Town Hall, 13:45 Skipton Castle. Then 14:30-16:00 showcase at the canal basin. Sun 12 Jul 2009 - 11:30-15:00 performance in the grounds of Skipton Castle (admision charge). Clogfest! is a member of the Morris Federation. paul@clogfest.org www.clogfest.org

11-12 Jul 2009 Music on the Moor festival, Hemel Hempstead. Rock and pop on Saturday and jazz, blues and classical music on Sunday. Other attractions will include the Ecology & Community Village, children’s activities, percussion workshops and poetry reading. Free biennial event from the Box Moor Trust, in partnership with Hemel Hempstead School. 01442 253300. Map

11-12 Jul 2009 Brighton Kite Festival . Sat-Sun Stanmer Park. One, the longest, running kite festivals in the UK - and still free. Spectacular kite flying and displays from leading kite flyers from around the United Kingdom. Aimed at the family and young flyers, with children's Kite making workshop running between 12:00 and 14:00 on both days, where children can make & fly basic sled kites. More Kite Events

11-12 Jul 2009 [TBC] Mouth Of The Tyne Festival. Sat-Sun. Live music, art and pyrotechnics, with a maritime flavour.

11-12 Jul 2009 Maritime Modelling Festival, Weymouth Sat-Sun.10:00. 1000 static models on display in the Pavilion Ocean Room, trade stands, marine craft exhibition, live warship battles. Radipole Lake - display of model boats and action on the water. Pier - National Grand Prix Power Boat Racing. Free beach and  esplanade events. 01305 785754

11-12 Jul 2009 [TBC] St Ives Carnival, Cambridgeshire. Saturday 12:00 Parade of Floats through the town centre into Warner's Park. Stalls, side shows, fair, refreshments, licenced bar and entertainment on and off the stage. Sunday 12:00-21:00 about 12 local bands and barbeque.

11-12 Jul 2009 Mini's on the Wreck, Shoreham. Adur recreation Ground, Shoreham by sea, West Sussex. This event is held on Saturday 12th July, for an evening cruise around the South Downs and camping, with the main show being on Sunday 13th. There will be a Raffle, Tombola, Auto Jumble, Trade Stands, a Sound Off, Show and Shine, and various bouncy things for the Children to play, on. For the public there is free entry, while for mini cars there is a small charge. Free Camping. All proceeds to charity. evening cruise around the South Downs and camping, with the main show being on Sunday 13th. There will be a Raffle, Tombola, Auto Jumble, Trade Stands, a Sound Off, Show and Shine, and various bouncy things for the Children to play, on. For the public there is free entry, while for mini cars there is a small charge. Free Camping. All proceeds to charity.

11-12 Jul 2009 [TBC] Windsor Golden Egg Festival. Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00. The streets in Windsor & Eton will come alive with a bustling Market, Children’s Carnival, and live music and free entertainment. Businesses on show in elegant marquees around the town, including car companies, clubs, gyms, & restaurants. Delicious food and drink, arts, crafts, and an eco friendly area. Saturday evening  live music and entertainment on Bachelors Acre. Shopping and demonstration extravaganza in the Windsor Royal Station, Peascod Street and Bachelors Acre. Childrens carnival at Bachelors Acre. Find one of the twelve eggs hidden around town to be entered into a prize draw. Map 07988 644268

11-12 Jul 2009 [TBC] Diaspora Music Village, London. Sat-Sun 13:00-21:00 Hyde Park. Performers from diaspora communities - ethnic population forced to leave their homelands..Free entrance. Diaspora Music Village, London

12 Jul 2009 Brighton Carnival Sunday. Start 14:00. Major event with a vibrant parade and big crowds.14:00 start at Middle Street, 19:00 on Madeira Drive. Throughout the city community groups, schools, businesses and sports teams have been excitedly preparing for this energetic and colourful celebration on the streets of Brighton. Join the start of the parade at Middle Street and dance together to the Brighton Carnival Village on Madeira Drive.Expect spectacular costumes, thrilling samba, summery steel pan, outrageous dance moves and many thousands of happy people.The day is suitable for all ages and the Brighton Carnival Village features a Family Activity Area, Caribbean food and drink, a live music stage and plenty more fun beside the seaside. Brighton Carnival Video

12 Jul 2009 Emerge Festival, Derbyshire Sunday 13:00-17:00 Shipley Country Park, Slack Lane, Heanor DE75 7GX. Bi-annual world music and dance festival. Local young bands and musicians, African dancing and drumming by Tongessai and dance troupe Mpopoma, Brazilian martial arts dancing from Capoiera and traditional Chinese music by Ling Peng. There will also be displays of street dancing, belly dancing and circus skills along with storytelling, childrens creative activities, a mobile skate park, climbing wall, craft stalls and a design and make bus, African drumming workshops, pedal powered smoothie maker, free face painter and hair wrapper and much more. This is a partnership event between Derbyshire County Council, Amber Valley Borough Council and Fleet Art’s ‘Turn It Up’ project. For further information please contact Shipley Country Park Visitor Centre: 01773 719961.

The Historic Commercial Vehicle Society 12 Jul 2009 Haverhill Historic Transport Rally. Sunday 02 Aug 2009 Trans-Pennine Run. Sunday. The greatest displays of historic commercial vehicles, including delivery vans, fire engines, buses, lorries, military, taxis, coaches and steam wagons.

12 Jul 2009 Pier to Pier Race, Brighton. Sunday. Swimming race on the seafront. Brighton Swimming Club is the oldest swimming club in the country.

12 Jul 2009 Race to the Bill Triathlon, Portland. 13:00 Sailing Academy, Osprey Quay DT5 1SA. Open Water Swim 1500m, Cycle thrice around the Island, Heights to Bill 40K, run 10k mainly flat but multi surface.

12 Jul 2009 [Cancelled] Rise Festival, London. Sunday 12:00-20:30. Finsbury Park. London’s biggest free music festival - hip-hop, indie, pop, jazz and reggae on 7 stages. Children’s play area, fair ground, food and drink, arts and crafts. Attendance 100,000. Rise Festival. Event Cancelled

12 Jul 2009 British 10K London Run. Sunday. Start at 09:35 Hyde Park Corner on Piccadilly. Olympic athletes and celebrities from stage and screen, as well as tens of thousands of fun runners who raise over a million pounds for charity. Map

12 Jul 2009 BUPA Great Women’s Run Sunderland. Sunday. 10km along Sunderland’s stunning coastline.

12 Jul 2009 McMichael Radio Rally, Reading. Sunday 09:30 Reading Rugby Football Club, Sonning Lane RG4 6ST. Annual Sale of amateur radio equipment, test equipment, computers etc. Used and new equipment. Outdoor boot sale + indoor trade area. About £2 entrance. McMichael Radio Rally

12 Jul 2009 [TBC] Tin Pan Alley Festival, London. Sunday. Denmark Street, Soho. Live music 11:00 - 21:00. Free.

12 Jul 2009 [TBC] British Pedal Car Grand Prix, Ringwood. Sunday 14:00. About 40 "formula one" pedal cars race for 2 hours around a 1 kilometer course. 10,000 spectators.

County & Agricultural Shows.

16 Jul 2009 Standard Chartered Great City Race, London. Thursday.19:15 Start & finish at the Honourable Artillary Company Ground in The City (near Finsbury Square). 5km route with public catering, full road closures, takes in St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower 42 and the Bank of England. About 5,000 runners. Managed by the London Marathon team. Map

17-22 Jul 2009 Shoreditch Festival, London - Shoreditch Park 17 Jul 2009 Friday 19:30 Proms in the park with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a firework finale. 18 Jul 2009 Saturday 13:00-19:00 Live music on the main stage, children’s area, tea dances, English National Ballet, dress up in the 1920s area, literature marquee, Shoreditch Bark Dog Show & movies. 19 Jul 2009 Sunday 13:00-19:00 World in Motion, created by young people - live music, dance & fashion. 22 Jul 2009 Wednesday. Shoreditch Games - sports and games for children and young people. Free entrance.

17-19 Jul 2009 [TBC] National Rowing Championships of Great Britain. 800 entrants at the National Water Sports Centre at Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham.

Popular  Marathons 18 Jul 2009 Moors The Merrier, W Yorks   19 Jul 2009 Fairlands Valley, Herts 25 Jul 2009 Faversham  09 Aug 2009 Isle of Man 09 Aug 2009 Salisbury Trail 30 Aug 2009 Guernsey 06 Sep 2009 Wolverhampton City 06 Sep 2009 Kent Coastal 12 Sep 2009 Dundee 13 Sep 2009 Mizuno Yorkshireman 13 Sep 2009 Moray 13 Sep 2009 Experian Robin Hood 13 Sep 2009 Wyre Running Weekend, Lancs 20 Sep 2009 Anglesey 20 Sep 2009 Green Chain, Kent 25 Sep 2009 Atlantic Coast 3 Day, Cornwall 27 Sep 2009 New Forest 27 Sep 2009 Jersey 04 Oct 2009 Loch Ness 04 Oct 2009 Isle of Wight 04 Oct 2009 Great Clarendon, Wilts 11 Oct 2009 Eden Project 11 Oct 2009 Leicester 18 Oct 2009 Abingdon 18 Oct 2009 Dartmoor Vale 18 Oct 2009 Spires and Steeples, Lincs 24 Oct 2009 Beachy Head, E Sussex 24 Oct 2009 Snowdonia, Gwynedd 25 Oct 2009 Brentwood Multi Mile 25 Oct 2009 Trionium Greensand, Surrey

18 Jul 2009 TewkesburyWater Festival. Saturday. Real ale festival, bell boat races, funfair, dancers, duck races, face painting, childrens entertainers, music, illuminated boats and fireworks.

Hovercraft Club of Great Britain National Hovercraft Racing Championships 18-19 Jul 2009 National Race Meeting, Round 4 Claydon House 24-27 Jul 2009 Hovershow 50th Anniversary Lee on Sea 22-23 Aug 2009 Thames Cruise 29-31 Aug 2009 National Race Meeting, Round 5 Southampton 12-13 Sep 2009 Cruise Event, Isle of Sheppey 12-13 Sep 2009 National Race Meeting, Round 6 Black Ditch, Somerset 26-27 Sep 2009 National Race Meeting, Round 7 Hinkley

Free Events by Bognor Regis Town Council. 18-19 Jul 2009 Sands Of Time Seaside Festival - sandcastle competitions, classic vehicle rally, exhibitions, entertainers, open-top bus tours, donkey rides, children’s activities. 28 Jun + 05, 12, 26 Jul + 02 Aug 2009 Sunday Afternoon Concerts. 15:00 Hotham Park Bandstand. 13 Sep 2009 Hell & High Water, Sunday. New event – wet and wacky. A jigsaw competition as you have never seen before, and an opportunity to test your ingenuity by making your own human or wind-powered water craft. 26-27 Sep 2009 French Market, London Road - Continental foods, wines, fashion, kitchenware and household goods. 28 Nov 2009 Christmas Illuminations Switch-On.

18 Jul 2009 [TBC] Derby Carnival. Saturday.

18 Jul 2009 [TBC] BonkersFest, Camberwell Green, London Saturday 12:00-21:00 Camberwell Green SE5. Free annual one day summer arts and music festival of madness, creativity, individuality and eccentricity. Live music, poetry, theatre, comedy, acrobats, fairground and more. Last year, Jo Brand fired a banana laden cannon to signal the start. Bonkers Fest

18 Jul 2009 Dorset Charity Horse and Dog Show . Saturday. Homelands Farm, Three Legged Cross, Nr. Wimborne, Dorset BH21 6QZ. Run on behalf of the Wimborne & Ferndown Lions Club. All profits will go to Dorset Charities and other worthwhile causes. 350 Horses and 200 dogs,  numerous trade stands, ferret racing, children's rides, show jumping and other entertainment activities in the main ring for the Public to enjoy.

18 Jul 2009 Southampton Mela. Saturday. 12:00-21:00 Hoglands Park, City Centre. Live music and dance on the main stage, workshops and demonstrations in Music & Dance and Arts & Crafts. Family fun with a range of Arts & Crafts activities, a designated play area and a funfair. Stalls - varying from ethnic clothes and accessories, beauty and henna hand tattooing, arts & crafts. Attendance 23,000. Contact 023 8022 6212 or email admin@artasia.org.uk.

18 Jul 2009 Broadwater Carnival, Worthing Saturday 10:00-16:00. Procession 14:00 from Northbrook College campus to Broadwater Green. Big top and circus performers, arena events and charity stalls. More details from J Williams at Broadwater News, The Boulevard Broadwater or P Keen 01243 820431 (office hours).

18-19 Jul 2009 Newstead TreeFest. Sat-Sun. A festival focusing on music, arts, crafts, health and the environment, initiated to encourage and enhance community spirit and involvement. Held on a Greenfield site, formerly Newstead Colliery, Notts. Free entrance & free camping.

18-19 Jul 2009 Sands Of Time Festival, Bognor. Sat-Sun. West Park and along the seafront. Sandcastle competitions, classic vehicle rally, craft and gift fair, history exhibition, entertainers, open-top bus tours, donkey rides and funfair.

18-19 Jul 2009 Royal International Air Tattoo. Sat-Sun RAF Fairford. The biggest UK air show - attendance 167,000. See site for tickets.

18-19 Jul 2009 Eastbourne Extreme. Sat-Sun. Eastern Seafront. Speed skating, skateboarding, paragliding and live music stage. Info line 0871 663 0031.

18-19 Jul 2009 Lambeth Country Show Sat-Sun. 11:00 -19:30. Brockwell Park. Largest event of it's type in South East England Attendance 120,000. Traction engines and steam parade, medieval re-enactment, falconry; horticultural competitions; fairground rides; crafts; community stalls; live performance stage and arenas. Free entrance Lambeth Country Show, London

19 Jul 2009 Senlac Classic Car Show & Craft Fayre Sunday 10:00-17:00 Opposite Bodiam Castle, TN32 5UA. Tel 01424 461443. Over 200 classic cars, classic motorcycles with commercial and military representatives. Craft and charity stalls, children's rides and falconry display. Light lunches, sandwiches, cakes, teas/coffees and refreshments. Musical entertainment on the lawns will include local Morris Dancers. There will also be a beer tent, barbeque and ice cream outlets. So come to Bodiam for a superb day out for all the family and in doing so help Senlac Rotary to help local charities including SSAFA, Rother and Hastings MS Society and Homecall. £3, accompanied children free. Organised by the Senlac Rotary Club.

19 Jul 2009 Coin Street Festival - Colombianamente Sunday 13:00-19:00 South Bank, London. Musicians, dancers and family creative workshops plus craft, food and drink stalls bring a unique and amazing display of the sights and sounds of Colombia to South Bank.  Organised by Digame Arts with The Colombian Embassy & Consulate in the UK. Headlining the event is La-33, the amazing hard-swinging 12-piece salsa band from the heart of Bogota’s 33rd Street with their fabulous mix of Salsa and Boogaloo, guaranteed to get the South Bank swinging.

19 Jul 2009 Race for Life, London. Sunday 11:00 Hyde Park. 13000 women walk, jog or run 5k. Part of a multi-location national charity fundraiser.

19 Jul 2009 [Cancelled] Ashton Court Festival, Bristol. 2007 saw the end of 33 years of the festival. Festival Picnic

19 Jul 2009 [TBC] Horsham EcoFair. Sunday. 10:30-17:00 Horsham Park, North Street. Set up to inspire and educate local people on the ethos of sustainability. More than 50 businesses and organisations will be taking part, and thousands of visitors are expected, building on the success of the Burgess Hill Fair in 2007. Visit the inspiring recycling bus and the educational energy bus. There will be a series of zoned streets crisscrossing the park with stalls offering Fair Trade crafts, local produce and information on sustainable living. EcoFair will give people from across Sussex easy access to expert advice as well as sustainable products and services. Free entrance. 0845 026 4636 info@ecofair.org.uk

19 Jul 2009 T4 On The Beach. Sunday. Weston Super Mare. Impressive music festival with an attendance of 30,000. Free, ticketed.

20-23 Jul 2009 Brazilian Active Arts Week, London.  A free 4 day course in Capoeira and Samba Reggae Drumming, leading to performance. Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, games, music, and dance. Open to beginners or more experienced. Play Capoeira, learn about Brazilian music and culture, and have a go at forming a Samba Reggae band. Aimed at ages 8-19 years, and held at the Tabernacle, Powis Square, W11 2AY. Booking essential. Sponsored by RBKC.

22-26 Jul 2009 War and Peace Show Wed-Sun The Hop Farm, Beltring, Kent. World's largest military vehicles and collectors fair. 3500+ military vehicles, arena events, 1940s fashion, 1000+ stalls. About £17 War and Peace Show

23-24 Jul 2009 Lowestoft Seafront Airshow. Thu-Fri 12:30-17:30. Four hours of flying including Red Arrows, Spitfire, wing-walkers, parachute team etc. Ground displays, funfair, stalls,  simulators, food, drink and music. Free - voluntary donation of £1.00. Map

24-26 Jul 2009 Wheels Littlehampton. Fri-Sun. Free family event on Littlehampton Seafront. Motoring thrills, BMX stunt teams, classic 7 vintage cars, skates, skate boarding, new cars, classic car clubs,  motorcyclists, slot car racing, simulators, remote control cars - anything with a wheel from a unicycle upwards. Attendance 20,000.

24-26 Jul 2009 Weymouth Beach Volleyball Classic Fri-Sun. 09:00 daily. Weymouth Beach. About 72 teams compete in the UK Championships. Festival site includes a magnificent show court surrounded by a specially constructed beach grandstand (free to the public), nine tournament courts, over 100 top class 2 a-side men and women's volleyball teams, live commentary, music intervals and a volleyball trade village.

24-26 Jul 2009 The Big Cheese, Caerphilly. Fri-Sun. In the shadow of Caerphilly Castle - street entertainers, living history encampments, music, dance, traditional funfair, folk dancing, falconry, fire eating & minstrels. Attendance 80,000. Free.

24-26 Jul 2009 Polyverse Poetry Festival, Leicester. Fri-Sun at the English and Drama department of Loughborough University. Several critically acclaimed poets have donated their services free, and there will be a range of readings and special events on offer. A not-for-profit event. Anyone who buys a ticket will be eligible to attend a workshop free of charge. Details on Facebook. More. Radcliff Gregory radcliff.freeradical@googlemail.com

24-26 Jul 2009 Worstead Festival, Norfolk. The largest village festival in Norfolk. Display ring, exhibitions, heavy horses, classic cars, weavers, road race, auction. About £5.

24 Jul - 01 Aug 2009 Monmouth Festival. Blestium Street car park. Exciting and varied programme including Reggae and Country. Attendance 50,000. Free entrance.

Ealing Summer Festivals Walpole Park, Mattock Lane, Ealing W5. 25 Jul 2009 Ealing Blues Festival Sat 13:30-22:30 Walpole Park. London’s biggest Blues Festival, with an attendance of 10,000. Entrance £1. 26 Jul 2009 Ealing Global Festival Sun 13:30-22:30 Walpole Park. Soul, Folk, Latino, African, Gypsy and more. Entrance £1. 29 Jul - 02 Aug 2009 Ealing Jazz Festival Wed-Sun 13:30-22:30 Walpole Park. Entrance £1 Ealing Summer Map

25 Jul 2009 Linslade Canal Festival Saturday 11:00 Tiddenfoot Waterside Park. Free community event with a conservation and heritage theme. Rural crafts, canal art, working narrow boats, folk music, stalls, childrens activities, bids of prey, mobile farm and canal boat trips. Free entrance, small charge for car parking.  No mooring fees for narrow boats, but owners are advised to book. 01525 631915.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] Pakistan Festival, London. Saturday. 13:00-19:00 Trafalgar Square. Parade, music, fashion and food.

25-26 Jul 2009 Crawley Mela. Sat-Sun. The Hawth, Crawley. African rhythms, Jazz Fusion and international music, free workshops, community stage, stalls, bazaar and funfair. Traditional Indian and international cultures, dancing, music, food, art, fashion, and crafts, together with a wide range of family-oriented amusements and activities. Attendance 10,000. Relaxed friendly family atmosphere. Free entrance. www.crawleymela.org

25 Jul 2009 Maidstone River Festival. Saturday. 12:00 Opening, 12:00 KMfm Cruisers, 14:30 Raft Race, 15:00 Elemental Parade - "Same Sky".
16:30 Best Dressed Boat Competition, 21:45 Illuminated Boat Display, 22:30 Fireworks. Live music stage.

25 Jul 2009 New Romney Country Fayre, Kent. Saturday 09:30-17:00 St Martins field & Fairfield Road recreation ground. Parade through village to the event fields, family entertainment, crafts, games and bands. Free.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] Big Sexy Festy Party. 14:00-22:00 London. The infamous and legendary BIG SEXY FESTY PARTY returns with an awesome display of free sound system culture with an all day house music on a massive open air sound system. Secret location - see web site. Suggested £5 donation.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] Giving a Click Summer Festival, London. Saturday 14:00-04:00 The Synergy Centre SE5 0TW. Live music, theatre, pan disability football, workshops, photography exhibitions, charity stalls, food etc. About £5 entrance. The money raised on the door will be equally divided between the charities taking part.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] 12 Hour Lawn Mower Race 20:00 Brinsbury College, Pulborough W Sussex. All types of powered self propelled lawn mowers. It’s devotees range from serious racers to serious drinkers, with every type of eccentric in between. A test of physical and engineering capabilities. In the 12 Hours they could cover over 300 miles, an average of over 23 mph including refueling and driver changes. £4.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] St Helens Carnival. Saturday 12:00-17:00 Victoria Square. Community participants parading alongside international artist through the street of St Helen’s City Centre. Performances on stage by local and international artists. Free.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] Bootle International festival. 12:00-17:00 Derby Park, Earl Road. A laid back day of picnics, ice creams and performance. Free.

25 Jul 2009 Swindon Mela. Saturday. 12:00-19:00 Town Gardens. Three stages with top names from Asain entertainment,  featuring Bollywood and Bangra. Attendance 17,000.

25 Jul 2009 Nottingham Pride. Saturday. 12:00-18:00 Arboretum Park. Attendance about 7000. Live bands, stalls, food and beer tent. 07875 377145.

25 Jul 2009 [TBC] Bognor Regis Carnival. Saturday. Floats decorated in traditional style, raising money for charity. Funfair and fireworks. Bognor Regis Lions Club - 01243 864001. rturner@staffurth.co.uk

25-26 Jul 2009 [TBC] Honda Powerboat Grand Prix, Lowestoft. Sat-Sun. Up to 40 powerboats following  the sir show.

25-26 Jul 2009 [TBC] Southport Street Festival Sat-Sun. Southport Arts Centre. Part of the Brouhaha International Street Festival, Liverpool

25-26 Jul 2009 Manchester Mela. Sat-Sun. Platt Fields Park. Walk the Plank will perform 'In the Dhol drum', a spectacular of Bhangra, theatre and pyrotechnics more

25-26 Jul 2009 [TBC] The Bowl, Crystal Palace Park. Sat-Sun. 12:00 - 20:00. Annual free music event of unsigned bands. Bar, food and kids area. Stone Pony + The Peryls + Le Shark + Earl Green + Cherry Blackstone + Ashok + East of Ealing + The Fore +  Size Nine + Dialog + UGC + Mancini + Inner Terrestrials + Orchid Star

25-26 Jul 2009 Sunderland International Airshow. Sat-Sun. 10:00-18:00, seafront, Seaburn. Claimed to be the largest free airshow in Europe.

26 Jul 2009 Swanage Carnival  Sunday 15:00 Seafront parade along De Moulham Road and Shore Road. Floats, Caribbean bands, clowns and costumed walkers. Fly-past by The Red Arrows, usually at about 12:00. Regatta & Carnival Week 25 Jul to 01 Aug - 8 days of fun filled events including a fly past by The Red Arrows, the Red Devils, half marathon, huge procession, 3 firework displays from the jetty, rowing, sailing, swimming, live music every night and much more. 

26 Jul 2009 Port Sunlight Village Festival Sunday 11:00-17:00 Port Sunlight Museum. A showcase of  local entertainment and businesses. Live acts, fairground, Wirral vintage car rally, welly throwing competition, dog show, food, drink and produce. Attendance12,000. Free entry. 01516 446466. Port Sunlight Museum & Garden Village, 23 King George's Drive, Port Sunlight, Wirral, CH62 5DX.

26 Jul 2009 Big Red Ride. Sunday. Brand new British Red Cross 75 mile bike ride from Blackheath, London to Eastbourne seafront. National events team, British Red Cross, 44 Moorfields, London EC2Y 9AL. Tel 0844 412 2877

26 Jul 2009 [TBC] Party In The Park, Leeds. Temple Newsam Park. UK's original and biggest FREE annual outdoor music concert, with some of the hottest names and chart topping acts brought to the Temple Newsam stage by Leeds City Council and 96.3 Radio Aire over the past 13 years. Gates will open from 13:30 for 15:00 start. Headlining: Scouting for Girls. Attendance 70,000. Free, but ticketed.

26 Jul 2009 [TBC] Ramsgate Carnival. Sunday. Colorful floats and costumes. 01843 594821

26 Jul 2009 Tough Guy Contest - Nettle Warrior. Sunday. Extreme endurance event - Tough guy is open to individuals and teams. The event is uniquely fear ridden and you need to be fit in both body and spirit to survive the ordeal. You will not be alone, thousands will be by your side. Tough Guy is played on the glorious pasture at the 150 acre Mr Mouse Farm, who look after retired horses & wildlife. Each year a new theme is built into Tough Guy, ensuring that it remains one of the worlds toughest events - physically challenging, mentally demanding, fear inducing & visual spectacular. Perton Farm (Mr Mouse Farm), Jenny Walker Lane, Old Perton WV6 7HB. Google Map Video

26 Jul 2009 Worthing Rod & Custom Show. Sunday. Organised by a non profit making group with a passion for American vehicles, Hot Rods, Custom's Limo's, Coupes, Muscle cars & Classics. Run in conjunction with the Worthing Festival, and held at The Steyne on the sea front by the Pier. Live Rock & Roll band, all day music, trade stands, fun fair, French Market, Harley Davidson motor bikes and near by Honda Goldwing Owners Club hold a show. Free to participants and public. Worthing American Rod & Custom Show.

29 Jul 2009 Sandown Main Carnival, Isle of Wight. Wednesday.

29 Jul-02 Aug 2009 Stockton International Riverside Festival. Wed-Sun. The biggest street arts festival in the UK. Spectacular 5-day summer programme of the finest outdoor theatre, street entertainment, circus, music and dance by artists from all over the globe. 1,000 strong community carnival and star-studded Fringe. The carnival starts from Church Road at 12:00 on Saturday 02 Aug, winding its way down the High Street, finishing up at Trinity Green for a finale performance. Bigger than ever before - still fresh and edgy!

30 Jul-02 Aug 2009 Hanse Festival, Kings Lynn. Maritime extravaganza. The star attraction will be the arrival of the 15th century replica sailing ship the Lisa Von Lubeck, coming home from her home port in Germany. An array of events along the quay during the festival weekend including an alfresco food fair, live performances by local choirs, Jazz band, craft stalls, archery, climbing wall, steam engines and traditional fairground rides.

31 Jul 2008 [TBC] Emperor and the Tiger, Newsham Park Liverpool. An evening spectacle of light, fireworks, music, dance and costumes. The event will feature the North South Dance group alongside the International dance and percussion groups. A fitting end to a whole day of celebrations in the north of Liverpool. Free.

31 Jul-02 Aug 2009 Bristol Harbour Festival. Fri-Sun 12:00-17:00. Attendance 150,000 - this is one of the most popular free festivals in the West Country. Dance stage, tall ships, music, spectacular fireworks, sky divers, circus, street theatre and French market.

31 Jul - 02 Aug 2009 Burnley Balloon Festival. Sat-Sun. 09:00-17:00 Townley Park. Nightglow & fireworks Sat PM. Combined with the local music festival. Mass launches AM & PM

31 Jul-02 Aug 2009 Brightlingsea Free Music Festival. Fri-Sun. Friday evening - local musicians in public houses around the town. Saturday from 12:30 - main stage on the Western Promenade. Sunday afternoon acoustic music on Hurst Green. 8,000 visitors, 25 acts and 136 musicians.

31 Jul-02 Aug 2009 Spraoi Festival, Waterford, Ireland. Fri-Sun. Free street party, street theatre and world music. Attendance 140,000 over the Irish Bank Holiday weekend. Parade 21:30 Sunday at The Quays - 400 brilliantly costumed performers, floats, lights and special effects, followed fireworks over the River Suir.

31 Jul - 02 Aug 2009 Nottingham Riverside Festival. Fri-Sun Victoria Embankment. Join 100,000 others at Nottingham's biggest FREE festival weekend along the beautiful River Trent. World and roots music, arts, river activities, street theatre, street fair, steam engines and crafts. The Festival opening times are Friday 18:30-22:30, Saturday 12:00-23:30, Sunday 12:00-18:00. Fireworks 22:30 on Saturday. Dragon Boat Challenge on Sunday. Free to enter with on site car parking available.

31 Jul - 07 Aug 2009 Sidmouth Folk Week. Fri for 7 days. Multiple events around town, on outdoor spaces, and in pubs and clubs.

01-02 Aug 2009 Croydon Summer Festival and Mela. Sat-Sun from 13:00 - 20:00. Lloyd Park, Coombe Road. Attendance 50,000. Three stages of world, jazz and dance music, street theatre, creative activities for children, a global market, funfair, food and bar. The African Caribbean Family Festival will be headline acts. Free entrance.

01 Aug 2009 Yorkshire Day. Annual event at towns across Yorkshire. Look out for related Yorkshire events over the weekend.

01 Aug 2009 [TBC] Liverpool Events from Brouhaha Liverpool International Carnival World in Princes Park  Liverpool Mela

01 Aug 2009 Leicester Caribbean Carnival. Saturday 13:00 - 20:00. Held on the first Saturday in August in the 69 acre Victoria Park, London Road, near the railway station. Large parade 13:00 - 14:00.

01 Aug 2009 [TBC] Dover Regatta RNLI. Saturday. Dover Harbour. Free. More from Gable Events.

01 Aug 2009 [TBC] Hastings Free Beach Concert. Free live music to raise money for the RNLI. Showcase for local bands popular with locals and visitors. Sat 14:00-20:00. Sun 14:00-19:00. Toilets are nearby in the Stade Car Park, on-site licenced bar, plus food outlets and ice-cream van, free suncream and a free supervised children's play area. No beach camping. Map

01 Aug 2009 [TBC] Hyde Park Unity Day, Leeds. Saturday 12:00-23:00. Live music from many Leeds bands and music from all of the main night clubs in Leeds plus various food and other stalls. Previous years has included 5-a-side football, dog show, jugglers, circus skills and break dancing. Free entrance.

01-02 Aug 2009 [Cancelled] Innocent Village Fete, Regents Park, London NW1. Sat-Sun. Replaces the Fruitstock Festival. 12:00 - 21:00 Smaller event with no massive music stage or dance tent. Focus on picnics, homemade buns, tombola, lying around in the grass. There will be music, comedy, stuff for kids and some snail racing.

01-02 Aug 2009 [TBC] Offshore Power Boat Racing. Sat-Sun. Dover. Work 4x National. Speeds up to 80mph - very spectacular. Free to watch.

01-08 Aug 2009 Skandia Cowes Week, Isle of Wight. See the racing from the shore or on the water in a fast rib, multiple events and live music on the water's edge. 40 daily races for over 1,000 boats - largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world. 8,500 competitors from world class to weekend sailors. 100,000 spectators watch the sailing, enjoy the parties and unique atmosphere. Fireworks, & possible Red Arrow display Friday 7th.

01-08 Aug 2009 [TBC] National Eisteddfod of Wales, Cardiff. 10:00-18:00 Pontcanna Fields. Pageantry, poetry, dance, theatre, choral singing and rock music attracts more than 160,000 visitors annually. Big pink pavilion, 320 trade stalls, science pavilion, dance stage, visual arts gallery & sport areas, caravan site and the city parkland turning into a huge entertainment extravaganza the size of 14 full sized football pitches. 2008 prices - Field: adults £12, evening Concerts: £7-28. Box Office: 0845 122 1176.

02 Aug 2009 Ilfracombe Birdman Sunday. Flying madness from the pier. Music from The Wurzels, Falling Apart, Sonic Fusion, Kama Linden, & Deluded. Fairground, strongman, stalls and refreshments.

02 Aug 2009 Margate Carnival. Sunday 15:00 Royal Esplanade, Westbrook to Palm Bay. Biggest around - 80 floats and live music. 01843 293733

02 Aug 2009 [TBC] Vintage Car Show & Concours D'Elegance, Hooe. 11:00-17:00 Recreation Ground. Arena events, village silver band, refreshments. Supporting local charities.

02 Aug 2009 [TBC] Mumbles Raft Race, Swansea. Sunday. 11:30 Norton to Nab Rock. 50 rafts. 20,000 spectators. 01792 638516

02 Aug 2009 [TBC] Birmingham Carnival. Sunday. Big parade. Party in Perry Park. Procession 12.30, Oxhill Road, Handsworth to Perry Park by 15:30, then the party lasts until 21:00.

02 Aug 2009 Vintage Car Show, East Sussex. Sunday 11:00-17:00 Hooe Recreation Ground. £4 entrance.

Weymouth Firework Evenings 2009. Live music provided by local bands, an abundance of seafront attractions, competitions & Fireworks at 21:30. Mon 03 August Mon 10 August Mon 24 August Mon 31 August

Swinderby International Antique & Home Fairs Tue-Wed 08:00-16:00 RAF Swinderby, Lincs LN6 9QG. Up to 3000 stalls of antiques, collectables, reproduction, reclamation and shabby chic items for the home and garden. Entrance fee on the second day is quite modest.

04-05 Aug 2009 06-07 Oct 2009 01-02 Dec 2009

06-09 Aug 2009 Bristol Balloon Fiesta. One of the biggest free outdoor events in the UK, with an attendance of 500,000. Over 100 balloons. Huge trade area and continuous arena events. Held on the beautiful 900 acre Ashton Court Estate. www.bristolfiesta.co.uk Thursday (gates open 12:00) 18:00 Balloon Launches 14:00-17:00 Arena Events 21:30 Night Glow & Fireworks Friday  06:00 & 18:00 Balloon Launches,  10:00-17:00 Arena Events   Saturday 06:00 & 18:00 Balloon Launches,  10:00-17:00 Arena Events 21:30 Night Glow & Fireworks Sunday 06:00 & 18:00 Balloon Launches,  10:00-17:00 Arena Events

06-22 Aug 2009 [TBC] Trafalgar Square Festival, London. Spectacular street arts and performance. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

06-30 Aug 2009 The Free Edinburgh Fringe Festival. After three hugely successful years at the Fringe, Laughing Horse Comedy present over 130 FREE Fringe Shows of comedy, theatre and music in 10 Venues that are all free for Performers to hire, and free for audiences to watch. Part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival,  which features 17,000 artists in 261 venues.

07 -13 Aug 2009 Creation Fest, Devon. Fri-Sun. 10:00 -22:00 Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 7JE. Christian music festival - simply turn up and enjoy a good line up of bands. Includes teaching seminars, workshops, a skate park, sports and family activities. Close to the surf beach. Free entrance.

07-14 Aug 2009 Broadstairs Folk Week. 10:00-22:00 Daily - Victoria Gardens, Bandstand and town centre. In the parks, pubs, gardens, beaches and promenade; musicians - from the highly professional to the inexperienced amateur - get together in impromptu sessions whilst Morris dancers, Appalachian clog dancers, rapper sword dancers and many others demonstrate their skills on the streets and along the prom. Large craft marquee. Entertainment all day. About 70 events daily, with varying admission charges.

08 Aug 2009 Hastings Old Town Carnival Saturday. 17:00 Flypast of WW2 Mustang Fighter along the seafront. 17:45 Samabalanca dance & drums, High Street, East Beach Street. 18:00 Procession - Rock-a-Nore Road, seafront to the fountain, back along the seafront, up High Street, down All Saints Street and back to Rock-a-Nore Road. 19:00-23:00 Beer Festival, High Street. 21:00 Fireworks from the castle. 24:00 Ghost Walk & Talk, High Street - 90 minutes, £5.50.

08 Aug 2009 [TBC] Eclectica Music Festival, St Helens. Saturday 12:00-21:30 Victoria Square WA10 1HP. One of the North West’s most exciting, innovative, and up-and-coming summer music festivals. Line-Up: Shed Seven, Levellers, Amsterdam, The Maybes, The Cubical, Ghenghis Grimes, Mama Beani, The Hang Project. Free entrance. Run in association with Love Music, Hate Racism and the Citadel Arts Centre. Aftershow Party 21:00 at The Citadel with performances from El Policia and Our Fold. £10. Tel 01744 735436. Gary Maddock - Press and Event organiser 07747 765273 More

09 Aug 2009 Rye Maritime Festival. Strand Quay. Fancy dress competition, RNLI, circus performers, rotary club, fire brigade, belly dancers, pearly king & queen, wild owl show, Hastings diving association, antique diving association, antique diving display, Cinque Port volunteers, environment agency, food, beer tent and live music.

09-14 Aug 2009 Skegness Carnival Week. Procession Sunday - Wainfleet Road to promenade. Gala events, baby show, super heroes, BBQ, beach games, tiny tots competition, Miss Seaside, pet show etc.

11-12 Aug 2009 British Fireworks Championships, Plymouth Tue-Wed. 21:30 Plymouth Hoe. Very spectacular. 6 firework companies battle over two nights for the title of British Fireworks Champion. 3 ten minute displays per evening. Attendance 200,000. Music stage, morris dancing, fairground rides, catering outlets etc. The fireworks will be set off at Mountbatten Breakwater. Popular viewing areas are The Hoe and Queen Anne's Battery. Free. Map British Firework Championships.

13 Aug 2009 [TBC] Littlehampton Boat Show & Seafront Festival. Thu-Sun. Held on the Littlehampton Seafront and Green. Entertainment, live music, fireworks. and British Championship Powerboat Racing. 01903 730730. £6 boatshow entrance. Some events free. British Championship Powerboat Racing. British Championship Hovercraft Racing. British Championship Thundercat Racing. Live Entertainment culminating with a “Headline” band. Displays by Search, Air & Rescue Teams. RAF Simulators· Static Displays. Trade Exhibitors.

13-16 Aug 2009 Eastbourne Airbourne. Thurs-Sun. Daily sea front air show - classic WW2, latest military jets, helicopters, air-sea rescue, wing walkers etc - weather permitting. Ground displays, arena events and trade stands. Evening concerts and fireworks. Popular viewing areas - The Pier, The Wish Tower Slopes, Beachy Head. The biggest seafront airshow in the world. Free again. Eastbourne Airbourne

14-16 Aug 2009 [Cancelled] Northampton Balloon Festival. Fri-Sun. Spectacular funfair, trade area, bars, caterers, shopping mall, reptiles, arts and motorcycles. In previous years there have been up to 90 balloons and 280,000 spectators. Balloon race 18:00 Sat/Sun. Night glow 22:00 Sat. Fireworks 22:20 Sat. Entrance about £4. Northampton Balloon Festival

15 Aug 2009 [TBC] Canoe Race on the Wye. Saturday. Nine-mile canoe race at Symons Yat East to raise money for The Old Spot Trust which aims to encourage community spirit and charitable support throughout Gloucestershire. Open to anyone who would like to take part or cheer from the river banks. Refreshments and a pig roast. To take part, minimum sponsorship is £100, spectators are free of charge. The Old Spot Trust 07889 194617.

15 Aug 2009 Race The Train, Wales. Saturday. Annual cross-country event organized by the Rotary Club of Tywyn. 14.75 mile cross country hilly race. The train takes about 1 hour 47 minutes for the return journey.

15 Aug 2009 [TBC] Childrens Fun Day, Leeds. Saturday. Headingley rugby/cricket ground. Organised in partnership with the Garry Chappelow Memorial Fund and the Leeds Rugby Foundation Development team. Under tens rugby tournament, cheerleading, martial arts, music, rugby league skills, armed forces display team, live music etc. Thousands of youngsters and parents expected. £60,000 raised to date for amateur junior sports teams etc.

15 Aug 2009 [TBC] Yarmouth Carnival, Isle of Wight. Saturday. 17:30 Yarmouth Green through the town.

15 Aug 2009 [TBC] Ocean Magic British Grom Club Contest, Fistral Beach. Saturday. British Surfing Association 01637 876474

15-17 Aug 2009 Aldeburgh Carnival. Three days of events for all ages. On Monday a full day of carnival events starting with swimming races in the sea, children’s sports, and the life-boat launch. Afternoon carnival procession, fun fair, entertainment in the High Street by The Knots of May, samba dancers, and The Parachute Regiment Band who will lead the Chinese Lantern Procession to the beach where the day will be rounded off with a fantastic firework display.

15-16 Aug 2009 [TBC] On The Edge Festival, Richmond   Sat-Sun.12:00-20:00 Thames Riverside. Free mini festival of world music - African Funk, Reggae and Hot Latin American Salsa. Thousands of people get together on this beautiful stretch of the Thames.

On the Edge Festival, Richmond Video Map

15-16 Aug 2009 Berkshire 4x4 Motor Show. Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 Mereoak Lane, Grazeley, Reading. Military vehicles, classic cars and bikes, Berkshire search and rescue dogs, monster truck rides by Splat World, Red Dragon monster truck in the main arena, food & drink plus Whittles Fun Fair. This year's charity is Multiple Sclerosis. Admission £10 adults, children under 14yrs free, concessions £5

15-16 Aug 2009 Bruce Festival. Sat-Sun 12:00 Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline KY12 8QH. A celebration of King Robert the Bruce in the shadow of his final resting place. Knights and Foot Soldiers will hold continuous demonstrations using various styles of combat with the weaponry of the period. Jousting with full armour, a team of six horses will be accompanied by full commentary on the skills-at-arms display. Medieval encampment and re-enactment groups, and piping and drumming music during the afternoon in the main arena. Free entrance. 01383 732226 dunfermlinebid@aol.com

15-16 Aug 2009 Pitch Invasion.  Sat-Sun Seaton Carew Cricket Club.FREE Music and Arts Festival in Hartlepool. There will be a large number of large rides, childrens rides and stalls over the 2 days. Face Painting and a Henna Tatooist. We will be fundraising for TFM's Cash For Kids and Red Dreams. TFM will be there on Saturday and Radio Hartlepool on Sunday. It's only 2 minutes from Seaton and the Beach.

15-16 Aug 2009 Under The Bridge Festival, Middlesex. Sat-Sun Fray's Farm, Harefield Road, Uxbridge. A new music festival of new and unsigned bands in an ideal location for festival goers. Camping from Friday. Organised by students, primarily for students, although all are welcome - something for everyone. Ska, melodramatic rock, psy-trance, dubstep and techno house from the best up-and-coming bands and DJs. Line-up so far includes The Brogues, Pull In Emergency, Surfbeat, Imperial Leisure, The Ruskins, The Pepys, The Twist, Hey Bulldog, Call Me Ishmael, Mr. Bligh, Personal Space Invaders, The Shallow Call, The Barnets, The Traps, Paper Heroes, The Money, and Caimbo. underthebridgefestival@googlemail.com

15-16 Aug 2009 Rox Festival, Bognor. Sat 13:00-23:00,. Sun 13:00-21:00 - seafront. Live music, food and drink. Free. Video Rox Festival.

16 Aug 2009 [Cancelled] Soho Pride, London. Sunday 12:00-20:00 Traffic-free pride event with al fresco dining, dancing, music stages & DJs in Soho Square, Dean Street, Rupert Street & Compton Street. Free entrance. Back in 2010

16 Aug 2009 London Mela. Sunday 12:00-21:00 Gunnersbury Park. The UK's largest Asian Mela. Seven zones with urban, classical and experimental music, DJs, circus, dance, visual arts, comedy, children’s area & food from around the world. Pop and classical music, cabaret, cultural stalls, martial arts, street theatre. London Mela Map

16 Aug 2009 [TBC] Dragon Boat Challenge, Manchester. Salford Quays. More from Gable Events.

16 Aug 2009 [TBC] Grassroots Festival, Hull. Sunday. Pearson Park 12:00 - 18:00. World Music Stage, hip-hop stage, acoustic stage and sound-systems, fire-eaters, stilt-walkers, breakdancing, Chinese dragon dancing and dance workshops in the Tipi Village. Free entrance.

19 Aug 2009 Weymouth Carnival. Wednesday. London Fire Brigade Parachute Display Team, RAF Harrier, Sandcastle Competition, Fun Run. Attendance 250,000. 12:00 Possible Red Arrow fly-past. 18:30 Grand Procession. 21:30 Firework Display.

19 Aug 2009 [TBC] Cromer Carnival. Wednesday. Red Arrow fly-past about 13:00.

20-23 Aug 2009 Bournmouth Air Festival Thu-Sun Between the two piers. From ww2 to the Red Arrows. Ground displays, armed forces, beach landings. Free entrance. Evening entertainment, Thu, Fri and Sat (tel 01202 451195): Hot air balloon night glow in the lower gardens, set to music, Birds of prey flying demonstration, Heliosphere helium-filled balloon rises and falls to music. Seafront Fireworks Sat 22:00. Bournemouth Air Festival.

21-23 Aug 2009 Go Fast Speed Days, Eastbourne. Fri-Sun Beachy Head Road. 80kph board races over a 1.5km course. Some of the world's fastest riders will be racing.

21-24 Aug 2009 [TBC] Bands at The Boot Weekend, Cheshire. Fri-Mon. Mini music festival hosted by The Boot & Shoe, Nantwich. The event will be held in a marquee in the beer garden. Rock, pop, jazz and blues. See website for full details.

21-24 Aug 2009 [TBC] Bognor Illuminations Gala. August Bank Holiday. Sunday night illuminated procession featuring floats, groups bands and costumed characters - this years theme is children's stories. Funfair all weekend and fireworks at 22:00 from the pier. Contact Greg Burt, secretary Bognor Regis Seafront Lights 01243 862287.

21-30 Aug 2009 [TBC] Aug 2008 Arundel Festival. A collection of gigs with top acts.

22 Aug 2009 Southend Illuminated Carnival Saturday. 19:45 from Chalkwell Avenue. Illuminated Parade of about 60 floats and samba bands etc. The parade usually pauses on Marine Parade at about 21:00 for a firework display, then continues on to The Castle public house. Southend Illuminated Carnival Video

22 Aug 2009 Gay Pink Festival, Cambridge. Saturday.12:00-21:00. Hundreds of performers, bands and activities on 6 stages of music, comedy and theatre. Childrens' area, market square & food court. 30 acres of idyllic grounds, and a free bus all day from Cambridge station. Attendance 15,000. Free entrance.

22 Aug 2009 [TBC] World Tin Bath Championships, Isle of Man. Saturday Castletown Harbour. A hundred competitors and thousands of spectators. There are also snake races, short entertainment displays, and even a rope drop. A fun afternoon for the whole family, as wacky races hit the Isle of Man.

22 Aug 2009 Melrose Pipe Band & Highland Dance Contest. Saturday 10:00-17:00 St Mary's School Grounds. Bands and Highland Dancers from Scotland and beyond. A great family day out. Ian Graham 01896 820388 Map

22 Aug 2009 [TBC] Street Performer UK. Sat-Mon. Victoria Park, London. E9. Musicians, jugglers, fire breathers, dancers, magicians, comedians, clowns, acrobats, poets, street theatre, mime and many other styles of street performance from all over the UK. Artists wishing to perform on the main stage must register by calling James on 07821 250 646. Child friendly event with a bouncy castle, artists and face painting. Admission and registration free.

22 Aug 2009 Ryde Carnival, Isle of Wight. Saturday. 16:45 assemble esplanade & canoe lake, 17:15 judging, 18:15 procession.

22-23 Aug 2009 Worthing Birdman. Sat-Sun. 11:00. Competitors launch themselves from the pier and compete for the furthest flight in home made flying contraptions and winged fancy dress costumes, raising thousands of pounds for charity. Live music, market stalls, local radio etc. Worthing Birdman

22-23 Aug 2009 [TBC] O2 Scrum on the Beach Take part in a game of beach rugby or enjoy fantastic acts and live entertainment throughout the day. Meet some of the England rugby players and test your skills in kicking, passing, running and tackling. Play Zone with games including rugby limbo, arm wrestling, a Punch and Judy and a giant screen capturing all the action. O2 customers can access a VIP chill-out area with free massages, DJs and refreshments. Feel the sun, play the game, meet England stars, grab a goody bag and relax with live music at these free beach festivals Lusty Glaze Beach, Newquay

22-24 Aug 2009 [TBC] Barney Big Bash, County Durham. Sat-Mon 12:00 Barnard Castle. Annual Rhythm & Blues Festival attracting some great names. Attendance 2000 per day and growing. The arena is fully licensed with beer tents, food & BBQ, vegetarian offers, tea and coffee facilities. There will be entertainment, stalls and craft fairs, and lots of things going on all day. Emphasis on children’s entertainment on Monday. Secure parking and camping adjacent to the arena. About £10 per day. Line-Up.

23 Aug 2009 [TBC] Luton Summer festival. Sunday 18:30-22:00 St Georges Square. DJs, music, street theatre and carnival. The festival runs from 15 to 24 Aug 2008. More

23 Aug 2009 [TBC] Candles On The Cobb, Lyme Regis. Sunday. Charity event involving over 5000 candles on the cobb and Harbour wall. Likely concert, parade and fireworks on the preceding Saturday.

23 Aug 2009 [TBC] Medieval & Country Fayre, Arundel. Sunday. 10:30-17:30. Town Centre becomes a Medieval and Country Fayre. Craft and art stalls, produce stalls, farmers market, morris dancers, live entertainment all day in Town Square. Rotary Club of Arundel – 01903 883937.

23 Aug 2009 [TBC] Aylesbury Showcase. Sunday 12:00-19:00 Market Square. Aylesbury Showcase presents 'Hobble on the Cobbles'. Free live music festival headlined by Eddie & The Hot Rods. Also performing - Francis Rodino, Benjamin Weston Band and many more. The festival follows a successful formula, attracting over 4000 people. www.jamcentralrecords.com

23-29 Aug 2009 [TBC] Pride Football, London. Leftfooters FC - International Gay & Lesbian Football Association World Championship. Semi-finals at Regents Park, finals at Matchroom Stadium (29th, 11:00-17:00).

24 Aug 2009 [TBC] Leeds West Indian Carnival. Bank holiday Monday.  Jour Ouvert warm up parade 06:00 -08:30 from the Leeds West Indian Centre. Carnival parade 14:00 from Potternewton Park, through the streets of Chapeltown, returning by 17:30. Attendance 120,000. Main stage - Soca, Calypso & Caribbean. Lots of stalls, crafts & Carnival food. 07931 291070 / 07900 981439. Route.

24 Aug 2009 [TBC] NASC Street Rod Nationals. Trinity Park, Ipswich. Cruise Sunday, show & shine, live bands.

24 Aug 2009 [TBC] World Bog Snorkelling Chamionships, Wales. Monday 11:00 Waen Rhydd Peat bog, Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales. Two lengths of a 60 yard trench cut through the peat bog in the quickest time possible, wearing snorkels and flippers (wet suits optional but advisable) but without using any conventional swimming strokes. Typical times are under two minutes. If you enjoy wallowing in mud, then this one is for you. www.worldbogsnork.com Video

24 Aug 2009 [TBC] St Helens Carnival, Isle of Wight. Monday.

26 Aug 2009 Sandown Illuminated Carnival. Wednesday. Line up 19:00. Judging 20:00. Procession 21:00 Culver Parade through town. Route takes 1 hour. 01983 402334

27-28 Aug 2009 Clacton Airshow. Thurs-Fri. Free air display with vintage and jet fly-pasts and ground displays. Attendance 90,000

28 Aug 2009 [TBC] Ryde Childrens Carnival, Isle of Wight Friday. 18:15 Canoe Lake through town.

28-31 Aug 2009 Norfolk Balloon Festival. Old Buckenham Airfield Norfolk. Food, drinks and camping on site. Organised by Anglia Balloon Flights.

29 Aug 2009 Notting Hill Steel Band Panorama Saturday. 12:00-21:00 Hyde Park, London. Ten of the UK's top steelbands, each comprising of between 40 and 75 musicians, compete for the title 'National Champions of Steel'. Artists will perform on stage 12:00-16:00 & the Championship takes place 16:00-21:00. London Notting Hill Carnival Ltd will also host a variety of stage and family activities. Attendance 10,000. Typical line-up: Glissando, Real Steel, Croydon Steel Orchestra,  Ebony Steel Band, Mangrove Steel Band, Pantasia Steel Band, Stardust Steel Band, South Side Harmonics and Metronomes. Free. Video

29 Aug 2009 LA Pebbles On The Beach, Littlehampton. Saturday 15:00-22:30 Seafront. Music festival and family fun day. 10 local bands on 2 stages. Free, but ticketed.

29-30 Aug 2009 Talgarth Festival of the Black Mountains=Sat-Sun. Popular family festival. Various venues throughout this beautiful market town. If past years are anything to go by, expect to see a colourful parade, bagpipes, morris men, stilt walkers, a duck race on the river Ennig and craft fair. Live bands and a DJ on George's Green all afternoon. Evening candlelit concert in the mediaeval church of St Ellwye, high up in the Black Mountains on Saturday, and Talgarth's own Male Voice Choir on Sunday. Local pubs have live music 'til late. Amazing firework display near the Rugby Club. 21:15 Sunday. What's On

29-30 Aug 2009 [TBC] Zapcat National Championship Grand Prix, Bournemouth. Sat-Sun. 12:00-17:00. Powerboat racing, just off the beach near the pier. Action packed racing in these light weight inflatable race boats. The events consist of two individual days of racing producing winners for each day. Each of two divisions will compete over 8 Heats of racing. All 16 Heats are run back-to-back ensuring continuous racing each day. At the end of the second day the competitor with the highest number of points will be declared winner of the Grand Prix. Zapcat Racing Ltd - 02392 526000.

29-30 Aug 2009 Beccles Carnival Weekend. Sat-Sun Beccles Quay, Fen Lane. Fun fair, displays and stalls all weekend. Provisional details: Saturday 13:00 Teddy Bears Parade from the Kings Head to Beccles Quayside. Saturday evening Summer Blues. Sunday 14:00 Carnival Parade, Rainbow car park to Beccles Quay. 07527 115697.

29-31 Aug 2009 Selsey Carnival - at Selsey Recreation Ground. Saturday 10:00-16:00 Village Fete with dog show. 16:00 till late, live bands. Sunday 12:00-16:00 Carnival Parade. Monday 08:00-14:00 Giant car boot sale. All Free. Non profit group which raises funds for charity.

Bognor Regis Tourist Centre Events 30 Aug 2009 Illuminations Gala. Night procession featuring floats, groups, bands and illuminated characters leaves West Park @ 20:30. This years theme: Fun. Funfair all weekend, with fireworks from the pier at 22:00.  Greg Burt, Secretary, Bognor Regis Seafront Lights. 01243 862287 brsfl@btinternet.com

30 Aug 2009 [TBC] Kingston Carnival Sunday. 12:00 Clarence Street to the Guildhall. Two music stages until 17:00 - Caribbean Soca, Steel Band, Afro-Cuban salsa and African jazz. Attendance 20,000. Free. 020 8547 2332. Kingston Carnival.

30 Aug 2009 [TBC] Shoreditch Grand Prix. Sunday 10:00-17:00. Charity race on kiddies fun tricycles and tractors. 30 teams of heroes will be blasting around the streets  of Shoreditch raising money for charities, worthy causes and social entrepreneur projects that benefit the community… it's a pedal powered race of epic  proportions, mixing the glamour of Monaco, the endurance of Le Mans and the idiocy of adults attempting a street race on children's toy tricycles. Leonard Street, Luke Street, Paul Street, Mark Square. Free to watch.0207 566 1100. Route

30 Aug 2009 Great North Bike Ride. Charity cycle ride. 09:00 Seahouse Tourist Information Car Park to Tynemouth Priory. Over 1700 cyclists take part in the ride in aid of the Chris Lucas Cancer Trust. 54 miles through the beautiful Northumberland coastline. Entry fee about £10. www.chrislucastrust.com

30-31 Aug 2009 [TBC] Newcastle Green Gathering. Sat-Sun Exhibition Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne. 4 stages of local and national music, arts, community groups, alternative therapies, ethical fashions, stalls, food, drink. Sat 12:00-18:00, Sunday 12:00-21:00. Free entrance.

30-31 Aug 2009 Caerphilly Balloon Festival. Blackwood Show Fields, Cefn Forest, Blackwood. Sun 14:00 - 22:00, Mon 14:00 - 19:00. Hosted by Caerphilly County & Borough Council. Camping facilities. Mass balloon launches, street entertainers, live music and white knuckle ride funfair. Nightglow and fireworks Sunday evening. The Bedwellty Agricultural Show is the day before the balloon festival, on Saturday. Attendance 35,000. Both events free. 029 2088 0011.

31 Aug 2009 Public Holiday - Summer Bank Holiday.

31 Aug 2009 [TBC] Bourton on the Water Football in the River. Monday. Red and White teams from Bourton Rovers FC play a half hour six-a-side football match in the River Windrush. The goals are between two bridges, and thousands of spectators line the river bank. Picture www.soglos.com Gallery Video.

31 Aug 2009 Bexhill 100 Classic & Custom Car Show. Monday 10:00-17:00 Polegrove Recreation Ground, West Parade, Bexhill on Sea. Classic and custom cars,  trade stalls and crafts.

01-30 Sep 2009 Design Against Fur. Thought provoking, anti-fur campaign posters by www.respectforanimals.org at Dreamspace Gallery, 1-3 Dufferin Street, London, EC1Y 8NA. Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00. Free entrance. The annual competition, Design Against Fur, encourages students with a conscience to produce a stimulating campaign poster to raise awareness of the animal fur trade - further info at respectforanimals.org

04-05 Sep 2009 Big Beach Boutique 5, Brighton. Fatboy Slim outdoor music event, Madeira Drive. Ticketed - not free.

04-06 Sep 2009 Shrewsbury International Street Festival. Fri-Sun 11:00-18:00 Town Centre. Map

04-05 Sep 2009 National Amateur Gardening Show. Bath & West Showground. Spectacular garden displays, fruit and vegetables, the biggest dahlia show in the world, TV celebrities, top gardening experts, celebrity workshops, entertainments arena, monster veg & UK national championships, giant floral marquee, ask the experts, quality food area, children's area, dahlias and best bougainvillea display anywhere in Europe help to make this a must. About £12 on the gate.

04-05 Sep 2009 Leicester Amateur Radio Show. Fri-Sat. Donnington Park Exhibition Centre, M1 J23A, near to East Midlands Airport. Giant exhibition and trade areas of hobby communications equipment, PCs, books, components etc. Various talks and lectures. Nominal entrance charge.

04-06 Sep 2009 Burnham-On- Sea FolkFest, Somerset. Fri-Sun. Over 70 live acts, markets, workshops, arts and crafts, exhibitions, kids' entertainment, dancing and much more. 2009 bands booked include: Dambuskers, Bag Of Rats, Kent DuChaine, Polly & The Billets, Doux, Steve Turner, Three Sheets T'Wind, The FOS Brothers, Phil King, The Cherry Pickers, Stompin' Dave Allen, Inu. Live music in local pubs on Saturday 12:00-23:00, Clog and Morris Dancing, a Craft Fair in the middle of the Town. Likely to include Sunday Open Air Concert in Manor Gardens 12.00-18:00. Friday opening concert ticketed, everything else free.

04-06 Sep 2009 Chatsworth Country Fair. Fri-Sun. Massed pipe and military bands, demonstrations and parades, hot air balloons, parachuting, over 300 trade stands, rural crafts, vintage car parade, terrier racing, clay pigeon shooting, bouncy castle, old time fairground, horse shoeing, ferret racing, archery, sheep dog trials etc etc. About £12.50

04-06 Sep 2009 Stroud Fringe Festival. Fri-Sun. Music Friday evening, all Saturday and 13:00-19:00 Sunday. 150+ acts on five stages: - Cornhill, King Street and Nelson Street. Rock, jazz, blues, folk. Craft stalls. Also events in local pubs and the town hall.

Sussex Bonfire Season 2009 Uckfield 05 Sep Crowborough 12 Sep Mayfield 19 Sep Burgess Hill 26 Sep Rotherfield 03 Oct Hastings 17 Oct Hailsham 17 Oct  Fletching 24 Oct Firle 24 Oct [TBC] Nevill 24 Oct Eastbourne 24 Oct  Titchfield 25 Oct  Newick 31 Oct Littlehampton 31 Oct  Staplecross 31 Oct Winchelsea 31 Oct [TBC] South Heighton 31 Oct Lewes 05 Nov Lindfield 05 Nov [TBC] East Hoathly 07 Nov Battle 07 Nov Chailey 07 Nov Barcombe 14 Nov Rye 14 Nov 2009 Robertsbridge 21 Nov   Bonfire Society Colours Barcombe RedBlack Borough BlueWhite Burgess Hill BlackGreen Cliffe BlackWhite Commercial Sq YellowBlack Firle BlueGold Hastings RedBlueGold Nevil GreenWhite Newick BlackRed Robertsbridge White Rye RedBlack Southstreet BrownWhite Waterloo RedWhite South Heighton  BlueYellow

 

05 Sep 2009 The Great River Race, London Saturday 11:00. 22 mile course - Docklands sail centre to Ham, Richmond. 300 boats, 2000 competitors, 35 trophies. Biggest race of its type in Europe. Handicapped start, spread over 75 minutes. Join thousands of spectators at the riverside near Ham House. Popular also is Chiswick Pier with BBQ and live music. Note the reverse course this year - Docklands to Ham.

The Great River Race, London Video Chiswick Pier

05 Sep 2009 Faversham Hop Festival, Kent. Fun weekend in the medieval town square and surrounding streets, celebrating hop picking in Kent. Music to suit eclectic tastes, children's entertainers, professional street theatre, stilt walkers, Morris dancing, craft fare, and ceilidh. Stages in Market Place and Preston Street and craft stalls in the surrounding streets.  

05 Sep 2009 Reading Pride. Saturday. 12:00 till late. Kings Meadow, by the Thames. Music, dance, cabaret. beer tent, stalls, fun fair and picnic area. Free entrance. Traders - call 0844 3570124.

05 Sep 2009 Uckfield Carnival & Bonfire Parade. Saturday. 13:30 Victoria Pleasure Ground. 19:30 torchlight procession. 21:00 - Grand procession High Street. Free bonfire & fireworks the day before the parade 20:30 at Holy Cross School Field. 01825 762763

05 Sep 2009 [TBC] Cardiff Mardi Gras. Saturday. 13:00-21:00 Coopers Field, behind Cardiff Castle CF10 3RB. Gay & lesbian festival. Attendance 40,000. Free entrance. The 2008 event was cancelled, but the organizers hope it will return in 2009.

05 Sep 2009 [TBC] Wem Carnival, Shropshire. Saturday. Two parades, each a mile long, from Bowensfield to Lowe Hill Rd at 13:30 and 19:45. Fancy dress and floats, marching bands, military and classic vehicles. 01939 232547.

05-06 Sep 2009 Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival. Sat-Sun. 10:00-18:00 (16:30 Sunday) South Quay. Tall ships, replica 18th Century frigate, lifeboat demonstrations, Royal Naval Simulators and guided heritage walks. Music from shanty groups, craft marquees,  street entertainment, Punch & Judy, seafood and a beer tent. Many events free.

05 Sep 2009 [TBC]  Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Trowbridge. Saturday. 19:00

05 Sep 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Sidmouth. Saturday. 19:30

05-07 Sep 2009 This time in 2008, La Machine invaded the streets of Liverpool with a £1.8m giant mechanical spider. With twelve drivers, it was able to expand, contract, walk, and even climb. Special effects included wind, noise and water. Video - Sat 06 Sep. This event was staged in the UK by Artichoke, Toynbee Studios, 28 Commercial Street, London, E1 6AB. Tel 020 7650 7611 artichoke@artichoke.uk.com. Previously, Artichoke staged the Sultans Elephant in London.

06 Sep 2009 Women's 5K Challenge, Hyde Park, London. Sunday. Warm-up to music, then start at 11:00 South Carriage Drive - anti-clockwise route around park. Great atmosphere. There will be similar events in Liverpool and Birmingham. Up to 30,000 runners raise money for various charities. Despite wet conditions, the 2008 London event still attracted 19,000 runners. The park will be closed to traffic all day. 10:10 Warm-up around the stage, 10:45 Assemble in start zone, 11:00 Race start, 12:30 Awards presentation at the stage, 12:40 Warm-down around the stage. Adidas Women's 5K Challenge

06 Sep 2009 The Great British Duck Race Sunday. Charity event. World Record 250,000 rubber ducks launched into the River Thames  on a dedicated course at Molesey Lock near Hampton Court. £2 to adopt a duck (plus £3 recommended donation to the charity of your choice) and you could win the first prize of £10,000 or one of 30 other great prizes. At 12:30 the ducks will be loaded into Molesey Lock and at 13.30 will be released into the River Thames. The natural current will take them down the 1 Km course (Guinness World Record requirement) and should take several hours to complete. The Great British Duck Race. Video 1 Video 2

06 Sep 2009 Angel Canal Festival, London. Sunday 11:00-17:00 City Road Lock and Basin to Packington Park. Stalls, fair, music, food, regatta, boat race &  boat trips. 70 stalls selling canal ware, crafts, books. These give many local and national charities the chance to raise funds. There will be walks and talks, hawks, owls, bee keepers, food stalls, music, funfair and a wide range of boats with bell-boat racing. Admission free.

06 Sep 2009 [TBC] Festival Brazil, Willesden Green Sunday 10:00-18:00 Willesden Green Library Centre NW10 2SF. Music and dance with Samba and Bossa Nova. Brazilian market, traditional foods such as feijoada, jewellery and crafts.

06 Sep 2009 [TBC] Family Fun Day, Radnor Gardens, Twickenham. Sunday. Beautiful Thames-side location - this family event with a village fair atmosphere will be very popular. Entertainment planned - Kneller Hall band, live country music, stalls, and lots of attractions for children. Map

05-06 Sep 2009 [TBC] Southport Air Show. Sat-Sun. The North West's largest Airshow, this fantastic family event attracts up to 150,000 spectators over two days. Red Arrows, military and civilian aircraft, Jets, helicopters, aerobatics and parachute displays, a whole host of trade stands, interactive and educational displays, simulators and children's activities. About £7

06 Sep 2009 Tour de Furness, Cumbria. Sunday. Charity cycle event, organised by The Rotary Club of Furness. Family fun ride of 5 miles, Tour de Furness route of 13 miles, which passes by Furness Abbey, and Furness 50 mile to Coniston and back.

06 Sep 2009 [TBC] Regent Street Festival, London. Sunday. 12:00-20:00. Bringing the country to the town. Instead of traffic - turf, topiary and organic produce. Live music with food and drink presented in the street from restaurants. Main sound stage in Regent Street throughout the day.

?? Sep 2009 [TBC] Art Car Parade, Manchester. Saturday. Artists from all over the country have been specially commissioned by Walk the Plank to transform vehicles into mobile artworks, and create an exciting new kind of festival.

07-08 Sep 2009 St Giles Fair, Oxford.

08 Sep 2009 [TBC] Widecombe Fair. Devon country fare immortalized by the song Uncle Tom Cobley. Held on the 2nd Tuesday in September. Livestock, sheep, dog show, gymkhana, maypole dancing, crafts, vintage vehicles and funfair on the village green.

11 Sep 2009 Kendal Torchlight Procession. Saturday. 19:00. Street Art Performers around the town.19:45 Start of Torchlight Carnival. Bygone Bikes - back to the days of Penny farthings and boneshakers with costumed riders. Dancers - teams of traditional country and folk dancers. Gentle Giants - ten teams of heavy and working horses with drays from the 1900s. Steam Engines - large and miniature, puffing with pride and nostalgia around the historic market town. Spectacular Floats - decorated with this year's theme. Marching, Pipe and Display bands from across the United Kingdom - featuring nationally acclaimed carnival groups.

11 Sep 2009 [TBC]  Rhythm Force II, Twickenham. Friday. Kneller Hall, Twickenham. Part of the London Military Festival. An open air contemporary music concert and recruiting event featuring Rock, Pop, Jazz, Swing, Blues and Ceilidh bands. The bands will perform  tracks from some of the present chart acts and party numbers from famous bands and singers, and all are formed by members of the Corps of Army Music. The afternoon will be open to schools, colleges and the evening will be an all ticket show for members of the Armed Forces and the general public. Tickets on a first come first served basis. Map

11-13 Sep 2009 [TBC] Birmingham Artsfest. Fri-Sun. 25 hours of live performance including world renowned acts, plus 400 performers, stunning street theatre and exhibitions in 32 venues. Ballet, Bhangra, Indie bands, Samba music & comedy. 2007features: Friday - live music including the ' Indie Invasion', Centenary Square. At Millennium Point, sound, light and fire extravaganza with Turner prize nominee Richard Wilson's 'Blast' masterpiece. Saturday - Centenary Square stage, from 1.30pm African sounds, Bai Ling Chinese Acrobatics, Irish Pipes and Drums, The Father Ted's celtic rock band, Irish Dance & reggae. Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Birmingham Opera together on stage for the first time ever in a fabulous free concert with a spectacular fireworks finale. For a full programme download from www.artsfest.org.uk. or call 0121 464 5678

11-13 Sep 2009 [TBC] Festival In The Park, Burgess Hill. Saturday. Annual family fun day run by the Mid Sussex Christian Centre in St John's Park. Activities include, inflatables, crafts, games, face painting, 5 a side football, football in a cage, fairground attractions and an outdoor stage with live entertainment. SkateFest the only Skateboard and BMX competition being run in Burgess Hill this year runs along side the Festival at the Skate park. Free entrance. Info 01444 232596.

11-13 Sep 2009 Findon Sheep Fayre. Nepcote Green, Findon Village. Fairground, sheep shearing, falconry display, morris dancing, craft stalls, punch and judy. Dances Friday 12th & Saturday 13th in the evening in marquee. 01903 264161.

12 Sep 2009 Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival. Saturday. The River Cam, Cambridge. Spectators free. More from Gable Events.

12 Sep 2009 [TBC] Crowpoint Festival, Newport. Sat-Sun. Coronation Park, next to Newport Transporter Bridge. Arena & tented stage. capacity 20,000. Saturday community focussed, headliners on Sunday. Free.

12 Sep 2009 National Speed Trials, Madeira Drive, Brighton. Saturday. Starts 10:00 - 16:30. Very popular. Many people watch from the top of Marine Parade. Probably the oldest motoring competition in the UK for cars and bikes from veterans to the newest. Started in 1905 when Brighton Motor Week took place. The length of the course is currently a quarter mile and is run under the regulations of the RAC Motor Sport Association. Awards include best overall time, best time by a lady driver, best motorcycle time and best in class. Viewing is free from the upper level, but for entry to the paddock, there is a charge. Brighton and Hove Motor Club 296-298 Madeira Drive Arches Brighton East Sussex BN2 1DZ - 07860 730349

12 Sep 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parade - Crowborough. Held on the second Saturday in September, Crowborough Bonfire Society has been running for over 100 years. Parade, with about 4,500 torches, attended by other societies, including Uckfield, Mayfield, Burgess Hill, Littlehampton and East Hoathly. 13:30 Childrens Procession. 19:30 Torchlight Procession - Chapel Green, Queens Rd, Blackness Rd, Herne Rd, Whitehill Rd, Croft Rd, Broadway, Crowborough Hill, Millbrook Rd, Eridge Gardens. 21:30 Fireworks at Goldsmiths Recreation Ground, Eridge Road.

12 Sep 2009 [TBC] Arts Fresco, Market Harborough. Saturday 11:00-17:00 Market Harborough's Streets and Square. Children’s Village with face painting, story-telling, craft workshop and clown performances. Free entrance. Tel 01858 410563.

12 Sep 2009 Romsey Show, Broadlands Park. Saturday. An excellent country show for families. Modest entrance fee.

12-13 Sep 2009 Bristol Festival of Kites & Air Creations. Sat-Sun 11:00-17:00 Ashton Court. Free entrance (£7 to park on site). Expect highlights such as spectacular swirling octopi, a flying scuba diver, a giant mermaid Roly the mega killer whale, vast man-lifting kite surf wings, kite-propelled buggies, land boards, unique inflatable sculptures and aerial combat with traditional Japanese fighting kites. I-Quad quad line flyers from the USA - synchronized routines choreographed to music & 50 other quad-line flyers performing complex routines. Kite master Masaaki Modegi - top kite designer and flier. Robert Brassington with spectacular cellular kites. Peter Lynn with spectacular large special shaped kites. The Clifton Suspension Bridge will be open to vehicles and pedestrians. For those with mobility difficulties, there will be a free minibus service from Clifton Lodge. Bristol Festival of Kites & Air Creations.

12-19 Sep 2009 Tour of Britain Cycle Race  Tour of Britain.

13 Sep 2009 [TBC] Lewisham Country Fayre. 12:00-18:00 Cornmill Gardens opposite Lewisham station. Legendary duo Chas ‘n’ Dave, the Becks Marshall Band, Julie Felix, PJ Wright, Guy Fletcher and Hoop Lala as seen on this years Britain’s Got Talent! Vintage fair with treasures from yesteryear, clothing Mend & Make do. Seedy Sunday - Lewisham’s first seed-swapping event, Dr Bike free bike check ups, fine food market and Children's farm. 020 8297 5635.

13 Sep 2009 [TBC] Legend Of The Giant - Equinox, Sussex 19:00 Hickstead All England Jumping Course. Torch-Lit Procession & Pyrotechnic Finale to the Sussex Games. Free entrance.

13 Sep 2009 [TBC] Simcha on the Square, London. Sunday 12:00–18:00 Trafalgar Square. A celebration of Jewish Culture with top quality acts from the UK and abroad of toe-tapping klezmer, sonorous choirs, cutting edge world music ensembles and Sephardi melodies. Exhibits and stalls of Jewish life and creativity and Jewish food. Free admission. If you enjoyed KlezFest in the Park, then you will love this one.

18-20 Sep 2009 White Air Extreme Sports Festival, Brighton Held on Madeira Drive, with over 35 different sports and events: Red Arrows, Chinook Helicopters, FMX, Surfing, Kitesurfing, Windsurfing, Thundercats, Jet Ski, Aquathlon, Triathlon, Running, Sailing, High Diving, Streetboarding, Mini Moto, SUP, Mountain Board, Skateboard, BMX, Slackline, Mountain Bike, Graffiti Street Wars, Parkour, Powerfan, Bocking, Trials Bike, Wakeboard, Ropeboarding, Beach Volley Ball, Mixed Martial Arts, Falcons Parachutes, Art, Digital DJ, Streetdance, Scuba Diving, Gliding, Climbing, Assault Course, Zip Wire, Kayak, Yoyoing, plus the amazing White Air Freesports Park and more! Music - Biffy Clyro, The Cribs, White Lies, British Sea Power, Natty & The Boxer Rebellion. www.whiteair.co.uk Tickets

18-20 Sep 2009 Alchemy Festival, Lincolnshire. Family friendly music festival at a secret location. Several music stages, kids' area, bubble tent, walkabout entertainers, fire shows, sculptures, site art, communal fire pits and much more. All kids activities will be free. All days are dress fancy days. Local cider and mead will likely be flowing!

19 Sep 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Mayfield. Saturday 12:30 Carnival market in Court Meadow, 15:30 judging of childrens fancy dress in memorial hall, 18:30 procession to the war memorial, 19:00 crowning bonfire princess outside Middle House inn, 19:30 procession leaves West Street for High Street, Fletching Street and Rose & Crown, 20:20 procession returns via South Street, West Street and Stone Cross, 21:15 final procession. 21:30 Fireworks. Mayfield Bonfire Society

19 Sep 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Frome. Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass by)

19 Sep 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Axminster. Saturday. 19:30 (1 hour to pass by)

19-20 Sep 2009 Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival. Sat-Sun, Stalls with a huge variety of dishes including ostrich burgers, oysters, cuttlefish in a tomato sauce, barbecued wild local game and locally smoked fish. Local musicians and bands. Organised by Hastings Borough Council. Attendance 50,000 - possibly the biggest event of its kind in Europe. Last year,  top London chef Tom Aikens showed onlookers how to prepare a mackerel dish with avocado and lime.

19 Sep 2009 [TBC] Ringwood Carnival. Saturday. 14:00 Children's Afternoon Procession. 19:15 Torchlight Evening Procession. 21:45 Fireworks.

19 Sep 2009 [TBC] Tewkesbury Water Festival. Saturday. Boat races, parades, music & fireworks on the banks of the Mill Avon. Lighted boat parade. Tourist Information Centre 01684 295027.

20 Sep 2009 Yellow Umbrella Day, London. Sunday. Free community festival - Chiswick’s largest annual charity event, raising money for children’s charities. Live music, BBQ, cartoonist, bouncy castle, crazy golf, street entertainers, face painters and more. The Yellow Umbrella Day 10K run and 5K walk has become famous in West London for being a fantastically organised event along the river. Both events kick off at 11:00 and start and finish at Chiswick Park. All participants will receive a warm-up leg massage and a free Yellow Umbrella Day medal and t-shirt. Food, drinks, live music and entertainment will be available after the run and walk at Chiswick Park Yellow Umbrella Day, London

19-20 Sep 2009 [TBC] Open House London Sat-Sun. 10:00-17:00. Annual event opening up 700 buildings to the public free of charge.

19-20 Sep 2009 The Bristol Festival. Sat-Sun. 11:00-22:00 Amphitheatre and Waterfront Square. 7 stages, a festival boat party, circus zone, Chill Out, art gallery, fancy dress shop, secret garden, oak paneled pub, arts and crafts, food stalls. 200 bands including Ashowka , Ben Westbeech , Carpetface and Audible , CCQ , DJ Derek , DJ Die , Dr Meaker , Dreadzone Soundsystem , Dub FX , Duckworths , Edenheight , Emily Breeze , First Degree Burns , DJ Format , Glitzy Bag Hags , Invisible Circus , Jane Taylor , John E Vistic , John Matthias , Joker. About £10.

20 Sep 2009 Streets For People Car-Free Day, Brighton & Hove. Sunday 12:00-17:00. Free event to promote healthier and more active ways of living. Pedestrian friendly space in the centre of Brighton, with music, dancing, entertainment and activities for all ages. Prince Albert Street, Bartholomews, Market Street and Square, Little East Street, East Street, New Road, Jubilee Street. Free rickshaw rides, Live music stage in Little East Street, Victorian Fair in front of Town Hall, Streets for children play street, picnic in Jubilee Square, giant artwork in Jubilee street, bike doctors and Alfresco dining.

11-20 Sep 2009 [TBC] Southampton Boat Show. 10:00-19:00 daily. About £15.

19-20 Sep 2009 [TBC] Chelmsford Balloon Festival. 0845 337 0525.

25-26 Sep 2009 Zapcat National Championship, Watergate Bay. Fri-Sat. 12:00-17:00. Powerboat racing, just off the beach. Action packed racing in these light weight inflatable race boats. The events consist of two individual days of racing producing winners for each day. Zapcat Racing Ltd - 02392 526000.

26 Sep 2009 Mouth Cancer 10k Charity Walk, London. Saturday 13:00 for 14:00 Hyde Park. Fancy dress and fun runners are encouraged. The meeting point is the Bandstand in the south east corner of the park.

26 Sep 2009 Sussex Bonfire - Burgess Hill Held on the last Saturday in September. Well supported by the Sussex Bonfire Societies. Thousands will line the streets. Programs on sale around the town. 01444 233017. 19:30 Procession 1 - Cyprus Rd Car Park, Crescent Rd, Mill Rd, Cyprus Rd, Church Rd, Station Rd, Silverdale Rd. 20:30 Procession 2 - Silverdale Rd, Station Rd, Civic Way, Church Rd, Royal George Rd, Fairfield Rd, Western Rd, Royal George/Fairfield Recreation Ground. 21:45 Fireworks and Bonfire at Fairfield Recreation Ground. Burgess Hill Bonfire Society

26 Sep 2009 [TBC] Burnham Illuminated Carnival, Essex. Saturday. Radio Essex stage in the High Street and a funfair. Best carnival in Essex with bands, floats, floodlit  tableux, visiting carnival queens and walkers in fancy dress. Illuminalted procession 19:30 - 21:15 takes about an hour to pass a given point. Clockwise route around the old town - HighStreet -Station Road - Devonshire Road - Arcadia Road - Dunkirk Road - Orchard Road - Silver Road. Events

26 Sep 2009 [TBC] Challenge Spectacular Day - Biddenden, Kent. 11:30 Recreation Field, Millennium Field and Jubilee Fields. Abseil challenge, vintage military vehicles, motorcycles, racing cars, tractors and static engines, Romney Marsh Air Cadet Band and the Samba Pelo Mar band. fun fair, football, pony club, train rides, stalls, BBQ, fancy dress competition, and silly races for adults and children. The Kent Air Ambulance is due to attend, two fire engines will give a rescue display, the Army Careers Stand will be present with large inflatable obstacle course and a shooting range, bouncy castles, a family dog show and a presence by police dogs. Afternoon fly-past by Tiger Moths, Mustang WWII fighter, and an aerobatic display plus parachute drop-in. Millennium Beacon lit at 16:30. Entrance £3.

26 Sep 2009 [TBC] Newton Poppleford Illuminated Carnival. Saturday 19.30

26 Sep 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Shaftesbury. Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass)

26 Sep 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Wellington. Saturday. 19:30 (1 hour to pass)

27 Sep 2009 West London Radio & Electronics Show. Sunday. Kempton Park racecourse, Sunbury on Thames. Amateur radio equipment, computing, test equipment, and components etc. Nominal entrance fee.

27 Sep 2009 [TBC] Hackney Mardi Gras, London. Sunday 10:00 from Town Square.

27 Sep 2009 [TBC] World Stone Skimming Championship, Easdale Island, Oban, Argyll. Sunday. 12:00 quarryside. Registration at Easdale Island Community Hall from 11:00. Pre-skim Party on the Saturday night before the event, in Easdale Island Community Hall - licensed bar, live music, children welcome.

Mar-Sep 2009 [TBC] Coin Street Festival, South Bank, London. Exciting range of culturally themed free events, featuring top-of-the-bill live music and activities for all the family culminating in The Mayor's Thames Festival.

30 Sep - 03 Oct 2009 Brighton Live As well as the usual live music shenanigans (venues rammed to capacity, fantastic musicianship & a wide range of musical events) during the 2009 festival, the aim is for an outdoor stage, gigs (& instruments) in the most unlikely of locations, a truly inspirational all ages event and many interesting and creative music related seminars.

03 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Rotherfield & Mark Cross. Saturday. 14:00-16:00 Market stalls and live entertainment in the village. 19:30 Torch-lit procession. 22:00 Lighting the beacon, bonfire and fireworks at the fair ground. 01892 852477.

03 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Gillingham. Saturday. 18:00 Judging at Brickfields Business Park, 18:45 Parade of bands, 19:15 "A Cavalcade Of Steam", followed by 19:15 The Grand Illuminated Procession (1 hour to pass by). Official Web Site

03 Oct 2009 [TBC] Broadclyst Illuminated Carnival. Saturday 19:30. There will be no parade in 2008 - back in 2009.

04 Oct 2009 [TBC] 10k Nike Run London. Annual 10K run held in one of the London parks or on the streets. Can attract 35,000 runners. One of the biggest race events in the UK, second only to the London Marathon. Pictures show the 2006 event in Hyde Park.

30 Sep - 04 Oct 2009 [TBC] Nottingham Goose Fair. Wed-Sun. Forest Recreation Ground just off Mansfield Road, 2 miles north of Nottingham City Centre. Biggest traveling fair in Europe with 500 attractions including white knuckle rides, crafts marque, market stalls, and food. Attendance 500,000. Free admission.

04 Oct 2009 [TBC] Run to the Beat Half Marathon, London. Sunday 09:45 Start and finish at The O2 London Dome. Londons' first Half Marathon. Will pass through Greenwich town centre during the latter part of the route. Specially selected music tracks from about 20 live bands around the route to help motivate the 10,000 runners.

04 Oct 2009 [TBC] Bupa Great North Run. Sunday. Newcastle, Gateshead, South Shields. The biggest half marathon in the world, with 49,000 runners, 80,000 spectators and an electric atmosphere. Main start about 10:40. Evening party on the quayside. The junior run is usually the day before, on Saturday.

02-04 Oct 2009 [TBC] British Musical Fireworks Championships. Fri-Sun. 19:30 Kings Gardens, Southport, Merseyside PR8. Some of the UK's leading firework display companies competing for the title of British Musical Fireworks Champions. Billed as one of the most spectacular events in the country. Six of the finest fireworks companies over three nights with two displays per night. Attendance 40,000. Tickets from about £5 on the gate. Tel 01704 533333

04 Oct 2009 [TBC] Greenwich Car Free Day. Sunday 11:00 -16:00. Cutty Sark Gardens. Live street entertainment and colourful market stalls in a traffic-free environment. Information on sustainable transport, the Greenwich Car Club and how you can make more of a difference to the environment. There will also be a strong focus on cycling with a range of cycling themed attractions and activities.

10 Oct 2009 Me Baby and Toddler Show, Sussex. Saturday 10:00-16:00 Jubilee Community Centre, Charlwoods Road, East Grinstead RH19 2HL. Event for family, pregnancy, birth, baby and toddler. The latest gear, maternity clothing, parenting tools, places to go and services. Try and Buy the latest nursery furniture, strollers, gear, clothing. Entrance £2.50 - 01342 328988.

10 Oct 2009 [TBC] Exmouth Iluminated Carnival. Saturday 19:30 start from Marine Way, Exeter Road, The Parade, past the Strand Gardens, Town Hall, Manor Gardens to fountain roundabout. There will be great entries, both single entries, small team floats and the huge displays, the quality is always fantastic. Exmouth is proud to have new entries every year.

10 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Castle Cary. Saturday. 19:30 (1 hour to pass by)

10 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Chard. Saturday. 19:15 (1 hour to pass by)

10-11 Oct 2009 [TBC] Battle of Hastings. Sat-Sun 10:00-16:00 Battle Abbey and Battlefield, Battle, near Hastings. Very exciting battle involving the clash of 200 soldiers in amazing battle dress. Run by English Heritage - entrance about £9 for non-members. Part of Hastings Week.

10-11 Oct 2009 [TBC] British National Ploughing Championships. Sat-Sun. Marden, near Tonbridge, Kent TN12 9LN. The event is not only for ploughmen - visitors will be catered for with an extensive trade stand area and a taste of the past will be supplied with steam ploughing engines; vintage machines at work; rural craft displays; a static display of vintage tractors and agricultural engines; and magnificent shire horses at work demonstrating their ploughing skills.  These magnificently turned out true 'workhorses' will be decorated with ornate brass and leather harness, and undertaking the general purpose work on the first day and the stylish 'high cut' work on the second day, providing an irresistible opportunity for photographers. 15,000 visitors expected to attend the event from all parts of the country and the site will be sign posted from all major roads in the vicinity. 

Poole Kite Picnics All kite fliers are welcome to join us from 10:00 at Hamworthy Park in Poole for these informal flying days. 11 Oct 2009 One Sky One World. Sunday.   12 Oct 2009.

11 Oct 2009 [TBC] Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship Sunday. A toast to the Porridge and the procession of judges and competitors set of to the village hall led by the Badenoch and Strathspey Pipe Band. Attractions might include the Carrbridge Challenge Fun Run, an aerobic warm up, the Cairngorms Farmers Market, product tastings, Porridge Bar, belly dancing, live music and street entertainment.

16 Oct 2009 [TBC] Bloomsbury Festival. Fri-Sun. Annual arts festival, held in the "Bloomsbury Quarter", the area between Euston Road, Gray's Inn Road, Theobalds Road and Southamton Row. Works by local artists, musicians and dancers. Likely music in Brunswick Square, children's story telling in St Georges Gardens, street entertainment and organized walks. Map

17 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Wincanton. Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass by)

17 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Taunton. Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass by)

17 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Hailsham. Saturday. Torchlit procession, bonfire and fireworks - part of the famous Sussex bonfire season. Held on the 3rd Saturday in October.

17 Oct 2009 [TBC] Brent Diwali, London. Saturday. Hindu New Year festival on the streets of Wembley. Music, dancing and lights. Attendance 20,000. Provisional times - 13:00 Rangoli Exhibition, Ealing Road Library, 18:30 - Ealing Rd Parade of floats, dancers, and musicians, starting at Alperton Tube, 19:00 Music and Fireworks with festive foods, funfair rides and children's activities., Barham Park. Free entrance.

18 Oct 2009 [TBC] Abingdon Marathon. Sunday. One thousand runners. Very popular with runners and spectators alike. 09:00 start from Tilsley Park.

18 Oct 2009 [TBC] Wimbledon 10 Road Race. Sunday.09:30 start from Wimbledon RFC Barham Road, Wimbledon SW20 0ET. More information on Radio Jackie 107.8. Full refreshment facilities and licenced bar. Route: Barham Road, Copse Hill, Coombe Lane, Worple Road before turning left up Wimbledon Village. The back half takes Wimbledon Common before traveling down Cottenham Park Road and Durham Road, rejoining Coombe Lane for the last 1.25 miles back to Wimbledon RFC. The route is marshaled and sign posted. Wimbledon 10K

18 Oct 2009 [TBC] Cardiff Half Marathon. Sunday. 09:00. Large half marathon - Civic Centre to Cardiff Castle. Well attended with many runners in fancy dress.

18 Oct 2009 Weymouth Beach Motocross. Sunday. National motocross, 350 top riders, machines 125cc to 500cc, riders 15 to 40 years. 15,000 enjoy free viewing from the safety of the Weymouth Esplanade. Practice 12.00 followed by 6 races from 13:00 with approximately 100 riders in each race. Beach course 1 mile long and speeds of 70 mph - look out for the specially designed beach 'Bomb Holes', Dare Devil Jumps and Sharp Chicanes. All entries through AMCA office. For further information on taking part in this event and for an entry form, please telephone 07944 840722.

18 Oct 2009 [TBC] Diwali Celebrations, Trafalgar Square, London. Sunday. 12:00 - 20:00. "Festival of Light" with thousands of floating candles in the fountains. Indian food, dance and theatre. Attendance 20,000. More

18 Oct 2009 [TBC] Illuminated Art Car Parade, Blackpool. Sunday. 2007 was the UK’s first Illuminated Art Car Parade in Blackpool for the Festival of Light, part of the Illuminations. Vehicles will be decorated, sculpted, adorned, illuminated or bejewelled to create “Transports of Delight” in the shape of cars, trucks, bikes and pedal-powered contraptions. Commissioned by Walk the Plank 16:00 Vehicles line up at St Chads. 18:55 a performance of fire from a Green Goddess fire engine. 19:00 cavalcade of vehicles drive along the prom.

24 Oct 2009 [TBC] Hay On Fire, Wales. Saturday. 18:00 Lantern Procession from Market Square, Hay on Wye. A thousand lanterns, masked revelers, itinerant dragons, African rhythms, samba dancers, cross-dressing Morris dancers and theatre-on-the-run. 19:30 at The Warren, Fire Spectacular - theatricals, fire trails, fire sculptures, fire dragons, fireworks, and general fiery fantasy. A whole day's fun and frolics. All events free, apart from the fire show itself and the final gig.

21-22 Oct 2009 [TBC] The Showman's Show. UK's original and most comprehensive exhibition of products, services and entertainments for the outdoor and special event world. At the excellent setting of Newbury Showground, Chieveley, Berkshire.

24 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Fletching. Saturday. 16:30 Fancy Dress Competitions, village hall. 19:00. First procession to Splaynes Green & back to Village for refreshments. 19:45 interval. 20:45 Second procession to Denniker and back through Village to Bonfire Field. 21:45 Bonfire and Fireworks. Typical line-up: Fletching, Newick, Firle, Littlehampton, Burgess Hill Youth Marching Band, Lindfield, Uckfield, Burgess Hill, Ewhurst & Staplecross, Chailey, Newhaven Marching Band, Commercial Square, Eastbourne, Crowborough, South Street, Expedient Jazz Band, East Hoathly, Borough, Maresfield, Five Ashes, "Who the Devil are We", 6th Hove Scout Drum & Bugle Corps & Barcombe Scout Band, Rotherfield & Mark Cross, Waterloo, Neville, Hastings, Cliffe, Rye, Whatlington Renegades, Battle Boyes and Robertsbridge Bonfire Societies. The village is closed to traffic 18:00-23:00 and marshaled parking is provided. Fireworks afterwards -  home of the famous Fletching Flame balls. Village packed with pirates, cowboys and Vikings.  Video

24 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Nevill Saturday. Parade 18:30 from Highdown Road, Lewes. 20:00 Grand Parade. 21:15 Fireworks. Modest charge to enter the fire site. Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society

24 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Eastbourne. Saturday. Modest scale event with fireworks and possible bonfire west of the pier. Event planned to coincide with the marathon. Good luck EBS.

Roaming Robots Big, ferocious and deadly. Feel the floor vibrate when 100kg robots flip and crash.

24 Oct 2009 [TBC] Autumn Craft Fair, Bexhill. Saturday. 10:30-15:30 St Marthas' Church Hall, Cooden Sea Road, Little Common, Bexhill, East Sussex. Helping young people with special needs and disabilities.

24 Oct 2009 [TBC] Welshampton Festival of Fire. Saturday. Most spectacular themed bonfire and pyrotechnics.

24 Oct 2009 [TBC] Honiton & District Illuminated Carnival. Saturday 19:30

24 Oct 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Warminster. Saturday. 19:00 (1 hour to pass by)

24-25 Oct 2009 [TBC] Scottish Ploughing Championships. Sat-Sun West Fenton and Queenstonbank, North Berwick, East Lothian. The Scottish Championships are held annually in October - in a different area of the country every year - with the aim of promoting the importance of good ploughing.

25 Oct 2009 End of British Summer Time - clocks go back 1 Hour.

25 Oct 2009 [TBC] Bupa Great South Run Sunday. A flat 10 mile road race in Southsea, Portsmouth. Regarded as an ideal course to record a personal best time, and voted the second most popular road race in the UK with 16,000 runners. Start time is 10:30 on Southsea Common. Junior and mini runs take place the day before. Very popular with spectators - catering facilities and free parking on Southsea Common, but be prepared to leave your car parked until the race is over. Bupa Great Runs Map

25 Oct 2009 [TBC] Trafalgar Day Parade, London. Sunday. 11:30-12:30 Trafalgar Square. Over 500 Sea Cadets being joined by platoons from the Royal Navy and the Royal Naval Reserve and accompanied by a Band of HM Royal Marines. Held on 21 Oct or nearest Sunday.

25 Oct 2009 Titchfield Carnival & Bonfirel. Sunday 13:00. titchfieldcarnival@hotmail.co.uk

27 Oct 2009 [TBC] Diwali Celebrations, Neasden Temple, London. NW10 8LD. Tuesday 19:00-22:00 The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir - free event will include a firework display at 21:00, mouth watering food and a range of fun for all the family. 020 8965 2651

30 Oct 2009 [TBC] Fireworks Norman Park, Hayes Lane, BR2 9EF Friday Gates 17:00 Fireworks: 20:00 Childrens funfair and refreshments. Admission: Adults £5, children £3.

31 Oct 2009 Littlehampton Bonfire Night. Saturday. 17:00-22:30 Town Centre and Seafront. Torchlight parade, bonfire, seafront fireworks and funfair, held on the last Saturday in October. 01903 721866.

31 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Ewhurst and Staplecross. Saturday. 17:45 fancy dress competition, village hall, 19:00 torchlit procession, 20:30 bonfire, 21:00 fireworks at Northiam Road. Hot dogs and refreshments. Entrance about £1. Free parking next to the Cross Inn. 01580 765764 Map

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Crewkerne Illuminated Carnival. Saturday. Independent illuminated carnival.19:30 (1 hour to pass by). Map.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Winchelsea Beach Bonfire. Saturday. 18:30-22:00 Castle to Rookery Field. 01797 225333.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Carlisle Fireshow. Saturday 19:00 Bitts Park. Annual firework spectacle created and choreographed by the Black Powder Monkeys. Attendance 35000. 40-foot-high bonfire made from hundreds of wooden pallets. Fire drawings and pyrotechnic effects. 20-minute firework finale set piece dramatically choreographed to music in which 10,000 shells are fired into the sky. Free entrance.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Fireworks Barking Park, Longbridge Road, Barking. Saturday. Gates 17:30. Fireworks 20:00. Fairground, refreshments music. Admission Adults £5. Children £1.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Fireworks Danson Park, Danson Road, Bexleyheath. Saturday. Funfair, refreshments, live band and beer tent. Gates: 17:30. Stage show 18:30. Fireworks 20:00. Admission Adults £5, Children £3

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Cardiff Round Table Firework Display Blackweir Field will be host to one of the largest firework events in the UK, with a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, a bonfire to behold, on-stage entertainment from a series of famous artists, as well as fun fair rides, food stalls and many other family attractions. 19:15 Bonfire, 19:45 Fireworks. About £7.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Illuminated Carnival, Ottery St Mary, Devon Saturday. Ottery St Mary Carnival Day. In the afternoon at the Institute Yonder Street, Fancy Dress Competition. Carnival Parade in the evening from 19:30. Afterwards, a fireworks display on The Land of Canaan.

31 Oct 2009 [TBC] Crewkern Illuminated Carnival. Saturday. Parade starts at 19:30. Independent carnival with floats, walkers in fancy dress and marching bands. Last in the season. http://www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk/

01 Nov 2009 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. Annual event held on the first Sunday in November. 531 pre 1905 cars leave Hyde Park in groups of 2, between sunrise, 07:01 and 08:30. The older cars leave first. At the official coffee stop at Crawley, the first car arrives at about 09:10. They arrive at Brighton sea front from 10:40 onwards and closing time is 16:30. “The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is one of the biggest free events for spectators in the UK,” said LBVCR Event Director Roger Etcell. See also the Preview, Regent Street, London on the day before 11:00-15:00. LBVCR International Concours - 100 of the best examples of late 19th and early 20th Century motoring history. 500,000 expected to line the route.

05 Nov 2009 [TBC] Fireworks Crystal Palace Park, London SE19. Wednesday Gates 17:00. Fireworks: 20:00. Childrens funfair and refreshments. Admission £5

05 Nov 2009 [TBC] Parade & Fireworks, Guildford.19:45 procession from High Street, led by The Mayor and TS Implacable Nautical Training Corps Band. 20:30 Fireworks, Stoke Park. Free entrance. Charity collection.

05 Nov 2009 [TBC] Sussex Bonfire Parades - Lindfield.18:30 Fancy Dress Competition, 19:30 Torchlight Procession Form up – Pondcroft Road, Black Hill, The Witch, Hickmans Lane, High Street & onto the Common, 20:00 Lighting of the Bonfire & Bonfire Prayer, 20:15 Grand Firework Display.

05 Nov 2009 [TBC] Rolling Tar Barrels, Ottery St Mary, Devon. Every year on November 5th for reasons lost in antiquity, the Flaming Tar Barrels are carried through the streets of Ottery St mary to the delight of thousands of townsfolk and visitors. Starting with the junior barrels at 16:00 -  the size of the adult barrels grow until the final enormous one is carried as Midnight calls. A gigantic bonfire, over 10 mtrs high, crowned with Guy Fawkes himself, forms an impressive background to the occasion together with a fairground and many other attractions. The event has been televised all over the world and has made Ottery St Mary a place in which to celebrate a unique occasion.

07-08 Nov 2009 Canterbury Anifest Sat-Sun, the Gulbenkian Cinema, University of Kent campus. The annual animation festival is a platform for new filmmakers from across the UK to showcase their work to the public. Competition entries will be judged by an expert panel of animation industry professionals. Some of the talks and screenings are free. From Bagpuss to Frankenstein's Cat, Animal Farm to Shaun the Sheep, the festival has showcased work from numerous award-winning directors both on and off the screen.

07 Nov 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - East Hoathly. Saturday. Giant bonfire parade and fireworks, attended by many of the Sussex Bonfire Societies. 19:00 Torchlight Procession, 19:30 Halland Grand Procession, 20:10 East Hoathly Grand Procession, 21:00 Final Procession, 21:40 Fireworks. The Kings Head pub gets very busy, and The Foresters has an outdoor service. Plenty of fast food. The biggest themed bonfire you will see - could be a giant ship, or anything big. Voluntary payment on entering the village, which is closed to traffic. A small torch is useful here. This event is a must. [East Hoathly & Halland Ident: Cowboys]. Always held on the Saturday preceding Remembrance Sunday. Map

07 Oct 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Battle. Saturday. Torchlit procession, bonfire and fireworks from the famous Sussex bonfire season.

07 Nov 2009 Edenbridge Bonfire. Saturday. Torchlit procession, giant bonfire and fireworks. Celebrity Guy. Attendance 20,000.

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] Blackheath Fireworks, Greenwich. Saturday. Start time 20:00. One of London's biggest displays. Attendance 40,000. Free entry. Arrive early. NB there is no parking on the heath or surrounding areas. For up to date information about the event call: 08707 510 025.

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] Brockham Bonfire & Fireworks. Saturday. Procession and large bonfire on the village green. Attendance 20,000. Road closures 17:30 - 22:30. Free, but parking charges.18:15 Procession, 19:45 bonfire, 20:15 fireworks

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] Round Table Fireworks & Bonfire, Oxford. Saturday. South Parks, Morrell Avenue. Gates open 17:30, Fireworks 18:15, bonfire to follow. Funfair, caterers and toilet facilities. Advanced tickets about £7, more on the gate.

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - North Petherton. Saturday. 19:00  Many floats are 100 ft long and illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Takes 2-3 hours to pass any given point.

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] South Heighton Bonfire. Saturday. A recently formed Bonfire Society, which has quickly grown to over a hundred members. Torchlit parade, followed by bonfire and fireworks on the recreation ground. Give them your support. Society colours BlueYellow

07 Nov 2009 [TBC] Epsom Fireworks Display & Funfair. Saturday 17:30 for 19:30 at Hook Road Arena.

09 Nov 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Burnham on Sea & Highbridge. Monday. Parade starts at 19:30. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. (3 hours to pass by). http://www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk/

12 Nov 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Midsomer Norton & District. Thursday. Parade starts at 19:15. Many floats are 100 ft long and illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Route, Wells Road, Fosseway South. (3 hours to pass by). http://www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk/

12 Nov 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Wells. Friday. Parade starts at 19:30. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs. Route - Strawberry Way, Tucker Street, Princess Road, Chamberlain Street, Sadler Street, High Street, Broad Street, Priory Road. (3 hours to pass by). http://www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk/

14 Nov 2009 Lord Mayors' Parade, London Saturday 11:00-18:00. 6100 participants, 2000 military personnel, 250 horses, 235 motor vehicles, 65 floats, 20 marching bands, 22 carriages and the glorious State Coach, the procession is three and a quarter miles long but travels a route of only 1.7 miles. Largest parade of its kind in the world. We suspect that many people will gather on Victoria Embankment by 13:00 for the start of the return parade, and stay for the fireworks. At 17:00 Londons biggest firework display - three tonnes of fireworks let off from a barge between Waterloo & Blackfriars bridge. View from Victoria Embankment or South Bank. Lord Mayors Parade Map

14 Nov 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Rye. Saturday. Procession starts at 19:30 from Tilling Green. Bonfire on Rye Salts to the east of town, lit by a celebrity at 20:30. Fireworks display 20:45. Procession Route - Ferry Road to the Crown Inn, turn left into Cinque Ports Street, Tower Street, through Landgate Arch, Hilders Cliff in to High Street, The Mint, turn right into Wish Ward, Cinque Ports Street, Tower Street, left down Landgate, right into Bedford Place and on to the Bonfire site.

14 Nov 2009 [TBC] Somerset Illuminated Carnivals - Glastonbury. Saturday. Parade starts at 19:00. Part of the Somerset Carnival Ring. Many floats are 100 ft long, each illuminated by up to 30,000 light bulbs.One of the three biggest illuminated Guy Fawkes carnivals in the world. Described as the "Mardi Gras" of the Mendips. Route - Street Road, Magdalene Street, High Street, Wells Road. (3 hours to pass by). www.somersetcarnivals.co.uk/

19 Nov 2009 [TBC] Christmas Lights, Bracknell. Thursday From 17:00 Princess Square / Charles Square. Presenters from 2-Ten FM, live music and an impressive firework display. All free. Christmas Lights, Bracknell.

19 Nov 2009 [TBC] Christmas Lights, Slough. Thursday. Town Centre. From 15:30. Richard Fleeshman from Coronation Street, and Signature, from Britain’s got Talent. Switch on accompanied by fireworks and snow machine. 18:00 Lights switched on.

19-22 Nov 2009 Illuminata Festival Of light, Cambridge. Artichoke is producing a large-scale event in Cambridge, comprising a series of lightworks presented in the public, private and semi-private spaces of the city and surrounding area. It is intended that the event will light up a dark period of the year, providing an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy a celebratory moment in the winter months. Artichoke

20 Nov 2009 [TBC] Christmas Lights, Basingstoke. Friday 18:00 Festival Place. A celebrity will switch on the lights - last year childrens TV presenter Chris Jarvis. 17:30 procession Festival Square with fun and fireworks.

20-22 Nov 2009 Front Room - Totterdown Art Trail, Bristol. Fri-Sun. 3000 visitors can expect the weird and wonderful. See the work of 100 artists displayed in a mishmash of front rooms and gardens. All ages will enjoy pottering around the artists’ houses, and you can expect to be surprised by what you see. On offer is a broad spectrum of art works, together with live music, poetry and workshops. Dubbed the Totterdown Tea and Cake trail by locals, get to meet the artists and enjoy art in a comfortable environment. When you’ve had enough tea, then you could try a pint of Trail Ale, brewed by Bristol’s Beer Factory for FRONT ROOM and on offer at the Shakespeare pub. While you are there, listen to some live music or performance poetry. Expect new surprises to pop up on our website right up to the trail itself. Carolyn Jones 07817 312348 or Lynn Gibbons 07929 057302.

21 Nov 2009 Sussex Bonfire Parades - Robertsbridge. Saturday. High quality and atmospheric finale to the famous Sussex Bonfire season. Typical impressive line-up: Robertsbridge Rabble, Robin Hood, Section 5, Burgess Hill, Vines Cross, Battel Boyes, Lewes Borough, Ewhurst & Staplecross, Fletching, Hastings, Five Ashes, Newick, East Hoathly, Mayfield, Firle, Commercial Square, South Street, Nevill Juvenile, and Waterloo. Excellent bonfire and fireworks. Village closed to traffic 18:00 - 22:00. Parades in Station Road and High Street at 19:00. Bonfire & fireworks 20:00. All done just after 21:00. Parking available in the A21 lay-by - a small torch is useful here. Video Map

21 Nov 2009 - 03 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park London Open 10:00-22:00 daily, the 24,000m² Winter Wonderland site features London’s largest outdoor ice rink, Haunted Mansion, 60m Giant Toboggan Snow Slide with ski pulley, Ice Palace Mirror, Sleigh Ride, Central London’s first Roller Coaster, Snow Ball Bungee Dome, Wave Swinger, adult carousel, skill games and more. Winter Wonderland

21 Nov 2009 Arts & Craft Fair, London. Saturday 10:00-16:30 St Paul's Church Hall, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill NW7 1QU. 30 stalls of hand made arts, crafts and gifts, Children's Craft room, Refreshments. Entrance £1, Children free.

22 Nov 2009 [TBC] Bolton Christmas Lights. Sunday. Walk the Plank return to Bolton this year with another spectacular fireworks display for the switching on of the Christmas Lights.

27 Nov 2009 [TBC] Oxford Christmas Lights. Friday. Main Event: Bonn Square, Queen St, Cornmarket St, Broad St. 17:00 Live music in Bonn Square. 18:30 Lantern Procession to Broad St. Music and Street Entertainment until 21:00.

27 Nov 2009 [TBC] Henley Christmas Festival Friday. 18:00-21:00 Town centre. Stalls, food & children's rides. Christmas tree lights switched on at 19:00. www.henleytowncouncil.gov.uk

28 Nov 2009 [TBC] Calne Lantern Parade, Wiltshire Saturday. Super illuminated parade through the streets of Calne. The Calne Community go Lantern Crazy and last year a crowd of 10,000 lined the streets and walked in the Lantern Parade. Start time is 18:00 from Bremhill View Social Club, and the parade will come down Wood Street and finish at The Strand. Info line: 01249 814000 Map

28 Nov 2009 [TBC] South Brent Illuminated Carnival, Devon Saturday 18:00

29 Nov 2009 [TBC] Wokingham Winter Carnival. Sunday. All day carnival features craft, trade and charity stalls, Punch & Judy show, a magic show, roaming jugglers and unicyclists, Santa’s Grotto, sleigh rides, brass bands and morris dancing. 15:30 procession leaves Shute End car park, arriving at the town hall at 16:00 for community carols. Live music stage. Wokingham Winter Carnival

04 Dec 2009 [TBC] Carnival and Lantern Parade, Southampton. Friday 18:00-18:45. Carnival and lantern procession Civic Centre to Mayflower Park. Notting Hill style costumes made and worn by local school children from Thornhill Primary School, Woodlands Community College, Kanes Hill School and Bassett Green Primary School, many other community and voluntary groups. Co-ordinated by Southampton Carnival Collective. It is hoped that this will become an annual event.

04 Dec 2009 [TBC] Wooton Basset Lantern Parade. Friday.18:15 Santa with his pony and reindeer; 19:00 Carol Service, 20:00 Lantern Parade from outside Cathy Moore.

04 Dec 2009 [TBC] Lamb's Conduit Street Festival, London. Friday. 12:00 - 19:00. Live music, dance, gym demos, tug of war, children's face painting, storytelling, puppet show, pole dances etc.

05 Dec 2009 [TBC] Bolsover Lantern Parade.  Saturday. Charity Market, Craft Stalls, Street Entertainment, Traditional Dutch Organs, Children's Fairground Rides and ending with the spectacular Bolsover Lantern Parade. Santa's Grotto: See Santa arrive on a fire engine and visit him on his sleigh from 12.30 at The Angel Pub on Castle Street. Bolsover Church: Shirebrook Brass Band 14.00 (FREE). Bolsover Castle: Reindeer Trail 10.00 - 16.00 (FREE ENTRY). Cenotaph Square: Dance Displays by Fallen Angels 11.00 - 13.30. Christmas songs from 15.00 - 16.15. Adult Education Centre: By Castle gates, Light refreshments, Lantern Parade Exhibition 10.00 - 16.00. Lantern Parade: Lighting up at 16.30 at Bolsover Castle. Fire Sculpture at 16.45. Parade leaves at 17.00. Christmas songs at the cenotaph.

05 Dec 2009 [TBC] Hotham Park Carol Concert, Bognor Regis. Saturday 18:00-19:00 at the Illuminated Bandstand. Bring a torch, wear a Christmas Hat and have a wonderful evening singing all the traditional Carols. With Bognor Regis Concert Band providing the music and the Glenwood Choir leading the singing. Contact: 01243 822072. Free.

05 Dec 2009 [TBC] Tenby Winter Carnival, Pembrokeshire. Saturday. Start of Tenby Winter Carnival week. Festivities with charity stalls, musical performers, the 1st Tenby Santa Sprint from 16:30, culminating in a spectacular procession from Butts Field, and along High Street. Ann Rowell, Winter Carnival Organizer. Tel: 01834 842345

06 Dec 2009 [TBC] Middlesbrough Winter Night’s Festival. Sunday. "Walk the Plank" transform the area around Mima in Middlesbrough with a new stunning commission. Expect a lantern procession followed by a huge illuminated planetary mobile sculpture, heralding the start of the International Year of Astronomy 2009 and animated with fire and fireworks.

06 Dec 2009 [TBC] Newbury Lantern Parade. Sunday Gathering begins at 15:15 Market Place RG14 5BA. Short parade followed by treats and goodies in the market place. Events manager Liz Large is looking for volunteers to carry the lanterns eventsmanager@cornexchangenew.co.uk

10 Dec 2009 [TBC] Children's Christmas Lantern Procession, Dorset. Thursday 18:00 Poole High Street. Follow the procession from Falkland Square down the High Street and join the children in singing Christmas carols and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies outside the  newly refurbished Guildhall. Poole Town Centre Management 01202 649433.

10 Dec 2009 [TBC] Children's Christmas Lantern Procession, Dorset.

11 Dec 2009 [TBC] Pembroke Lantern Parade. Friday 18:15 Memorial Park.

11 Dec 2009 [TBC] Something Wishful, Chester. Friday. Spectacular closing celebration for Cheshire’s Year of Gardens. Based on the Thai, Loy Krathong or floating candle ceremony, the event will take place on and around the River Dee in Chester. Thousands of ‘wishes’, made by local communities and artists will be launched into the river. Produced by ' Chester Performs', working with Emergency Exit Arts from London and with the Cheshire Year of Gardens team.

12 Dec 2009 [TBC] Charity Santa Dash, Brighton. Saturday. 10:30. Start and Finish line is 500 metres up from the Peace statue opposite Adelaide Crescent. The course heads west up the Seafront Esplanade for 2.5k.Once you get to Hove Lagoon you turn around and head back to the Start / Finish line. Hundreds of Santas expected.

11-13 Dec 2009 [TBC] Frost Fair, London. Fri-Sun. South Bank. Lantern parade 16:00 Friday - Southwark Cathedral to the main stage in front of Tate Modern. 70 stalls selling food and gifts. Street entertainment, bands, ice sculpting. Frost Fair

13 Dec 2009 [TBC] Charity Santa Dash, Southampton. Sunday. 10:30. Start and Finish line is halfway up Coronation Avenue south. The course is basically a well balanced two laps of Southampton Common. There are a couple of long straights for those that are looking for a PB and superb scenery for those that aren't. Hundreds of Santas expected.

13 Dec 2009 [TBC] Art in the Park, Upperthorpe, Sheffield. Sunday 12:00-15:00 Philadelphia Green Space, Fox Road, Upperthorpe. Wreath making, lantern workshop and procession, mini beast hunt, fire spinning and live performances. Come and join in this winter event to celebrate this park and promote alternative use of green spaces. Cakes and hot drinks on sale. Free entrance. Creative Action Network (Sharrow Lantern Carnival).

17 Dec 2009 [TBC] Caerphilly Lantern Parade. Thursday. 029 2088 0011

17 Dec 2009 [TBC] River of Light, Caerphilly. Thursday Town Centre 18:30. Started in 2000, the event is one of the longest festive lantern parades in Wales, and features many lanterns created by local schools and community groups. Samba drummers, street bands and dancers flow down to the castle for a spectacular firework finale. Free entrance. Tel 029 2088 0011. tourism@caerphilly.gov.uk

21 Dec 2009 Winter Solstice. Probable small gatherings at Stonehenge, Avebury, Glastonbury Tor etc. Sunrise just after 08:00.

 

SEASONAL SWIMS 25 Dec 2008 Hunstanton Christmas Day Swim. Thousands of spectators watch hundreds of madcap swimmers in fancy dress. As mad as it gets ... 25 Dec 2008 Lowestoft Christmas Charity Swim. 200+  swimmers watched by crowds of thousands. The swimmers enter the sea at 10:30, near the Hatfield Hotel., 25 Dec 2008 Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim. On a crowded beach, Porthcawl Coastguards fire a maroon to signal the run down the beach from the Hi-Tide Inn to the sea at 11:45. About 700 swimmers. 25 Dec 2008 Christmas Day Swim, Hyde Park London. Start 09:00. The Serpentine Swimming Club, one of the oldest in the country, have met in London’s Hyde Park, winter and summer since 1864. Some will be decked out in Santa hats, to swim their traditional 100 yards annual Christmas day swim. The race is only open to members and is raced on a handicap system.  For anyone foolish enough to plunge into the icy waters in winter, without preparation over several months, the shock could prove fatal. Spectators most welcome near the Lido Cafe. 25 Dec 2008 Brighton Christmas Swim. About 30 intrepid swimmers, and 3,000 spectators.

26 Dec 2008 Windlesham Pram Race Saturday, Boxing Day. Start time 11:00. Organised by the Surrey Border Lions Club - raising money for local charities and community groups. Since 1967 the streets of Windlesham have hosted the annual Boxing Day Pram Race. Starting at the British Oxygen HQ. The traditional 3.7 mile course is a carnival parade visiting all the village watering holes: The Brickmakers Arms, The Surrey Cricketers, The Sun, The Half Moon, The Bee and the Windlesham Club. With two competition categories; Fastest and Best Dressed, the later being the most popular, recent years have seen 50+ teams racing Prams ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous. Whether you are racing or watching, the Pram Race is great family entertainment and a good excuse to get out of the house on Boxing Day. Geoff Mitchell 01276 472977. Map

26 Dec 2009 Pagham Pram Race. Saturday, Boxing Day. 11:00. Old Mill, Pagham Road. Oldest continuing pram race in the world, stopping at local pubs and raising money for charity. 80 competitors expected. Info from Geoffrey Evans 01243 267122

28 Dec 2009 [TBC] The Hoar Cross Downhill Soapbox Competition. Monday 13:00 School Hill. 16:00 Pit stop party, disco, band, buffet. The MAD Club, c/o The Meynell Ingram Arms, Hoar Cross. Tel: 01283 575202.

28 Dec 2009 Torchlight Procession, Edinburgh. Monday. 18:00-21:00. Location: Starts at City Chambers, finishes at Calton Hill (via High St, The Mound, Princes Street & Waterloo Place). Fire sculptures, bands, burning the Viking long-ship and fireworks. Attendance 20,000. Free. Gather from 18:00.

30 Dec 2008 The Night Afore, Edinburgh. Wednesday 20:00-00:00 George Street. Massive music event. Eclectic mix of music, street theatre, storytelling and giant monsters. Ceilidh Stage, The Keilidh-oke Stage, The All-Dancin' Stage, The Auchenshoogle Mad Village Dance in the Assembly Rooms. Massed Pipes and Drums lead the celebrations setting out from the Mound. Stories for Kids, Bizarre Stories and Cheeky Stories. Free.

31 Dec 2009 GlowMobiles, Newcastle. 18:00 onwards, Civic Centre, with Metro Radio and Magic 1152 presenters Brian Moore and Steve Colman. A fantastic music and dance programme culminating in a massive New Year’s Eve event and spectacular fireworks by Walk The Plank. The Show will feature performances of amazing dance routines by the best local groups. Live big-screen projection onto the side of the Civic Centre. Free entrance. Spot prizes for the best use of light on a costume and the best dancers. Road diversions around the Civic Centre from 17:30.

31 Dec 2009 New Years Eve Fancy Dress Revelry, Weymouth. Town Centre and harbour. 20,000 revelers in Britain’s biggest new years eve fancy dress party. Anything goes - especially fancy dress and water. Be prepared to show up in fancy dress, drink copious amounts of alcohol and sing traditional songs around the Jubilee Clock. Tourist Information Centre 01305 785747 Map of beach area & facilities

31 Dec 2009 [TBC] New Years Eve, Liverpool.

31 Dec 2009 [TBC] New Years Eve Fireworks, Leeds. Join in the New Year celebrations early as Leeds City Council, 96.3 Radio Aire and the Yorkshire Evening Post bring a carnival style atmosphere to the city centre from around 2pm! Briggate and around the retail quarter for a variety of street entertainers, crazy characters and stilt walkers plus an aerial laser light display! Fantastic Firework Finale illuminating the skies all across the city from 17:30.

31 Dec 2009 [TBC] Fireworks, Ramsgate. A spectacular firework display will take place over Ramsgate Royal Harbour at midnight on New Years Eve - Ramsgate Town Partnership 01843 851601

31 Dec 2009 Hogmanay, Edinburgh. Biggest New Year party in the world, with events spread over the preceding days. Dramatic street theatre, street party, concert in the gardens, torchlight procession and spectacular Seven Hills fireworks around the city. 100,000 revelers join hands to sing Auld Lang Syne.

31 Dec 2009 Fireball Procession, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire. At midnight, 60 fireball swingers come down the High Street in a spectacular and unique display to celebrate Hogmanay. Each fireball is a round cage of wire netting about two feet in circumference packed with paraffin soaked rags and coal and swung around on a wire rope. Video

01 Jan 2010 Serpentine 10k - 3k Runs, Hyde Park, London. 10k race starts at 11:00,  3k fun run starts at 12:00. Both races start and finish near the Bandstand north-east of the Serpentine which is near the Dell Cafe. There are no changing facilities, please arrive ready to run. Toilets are marked on the course map. A bag deposit facility is available at the Bandstand. Goody bags for all 10k finishers and medals for the fun run finishers. Cash prizes for the first three men and women in the 10k race along with prizes for age categories and teams. Course Map.

01 Jan 2010 Bath Tub Race, Poole Harbour. 10:00 Dolphin Haven and along The Quays. Organized by the Blue Boar pub (01202 682247) to raise funds for the R.N.L.I. and other charities. Attracts an audience of about 1000. Map

01 Jan 2010 New Years Day Parade, London 12:00-15:00 Parliament Square, Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Pall Mall, Regent Street and Piccadilly. 500,000 line the route. 10,500 performers - London’s Mayors, military and youth marching bands, classic cars, motorcycles, steam vehicles and cycles, balloons & inflatables, cheerleaders, clowns, carnival associations, bonfire societies and steel bands. Video

02-03 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Icicle Balloon Meet Sat-Sun. Warren Farm, Savernake Forrest, Marlborough, Wilts. Informal gathering of up to 100 balloons, with morning flights, subject to weather conditions. Free viewing for the public at the launch site. On-site caterers. Nominal car park charge. 01189 730454 Launch times will be decided at the pilot's briefing at 08:00. Map

03 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Twelfth Night, London. Sunday 12:45 South Bank. Annual ancient seasonal customs with contemporary festivity. Free. To herald the celebration, the extraordinary Holly Man, the Winter guise of the Green Man from pagan myths and folklore, decked in fantastic green garb and evergreen foliage, appears from the River Thames brought by a Thames Cutter, where he is met by Mummers. The Mummers then process to the Bankside Jetty (east of Blackfriars Bridge), and perform the traditional 'freestyle' Folk Combat Play of St. George, featuring the Turkey Sniper, Clever Legs, the Old 'Oss and many others, dressed in their spectacular 'guizes'. The play is full of wild verse and boisterous action. Cakes are handed out at the end of the play, 2 of which have a bean or pea hidden in them. Who ever finds them will be crowned King and Queen for the day and then lead the people through the streets to the historic George Inn in Borough High Street for storytelling, the Kissing Wishing Tree and dancing. Free.

02-03 Jan 2010 Steaming Days, Bolton Steam Museum. Sat-Sun 10:00-16:00. Two free steaming days by the Northern Mill Engine Society (a registered charity). TheMuseum houses 25 old stationary steam engines which once powered the cotton mills of England, including 2 rare beam engines, the oldest around 170 years old.

06 Jan 2010 [TBC] 12th Night, Guildford. Wednessday. Wassailing with The Pilgrim Morris Men. Free. King George fights and forgives terrible enemies, with the aid of a Noble Doctor, Father Christmas, and a cast of ‘thousands'. The Star from 19:15 when the King of Misrule is chosen, followed at 19:30 approx when the 12th Night Mummers Play is performed. The King’s Head, Quarry Street at 20:00, The Angel Hotel, 91 High street at 20:30 with singing and storytelling, Robin Hood, Sydenham Road at 21:30 and finally, The Royal Oak, Sydenham Road at about 22:00 where we'll stay until we're no longer welcome wassailing the night away. info@pilgrimmorrismen.org.uk The Wassailing Song

09 Jan 2010 [TBC] Saturnalia Beer Festival & Chariot Race. Saturday 13:00 Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales. Mountain Bikes, modified as Chariots, sponsored by local hostelries. The course comprises an obstacle course and lake, with potholes, puddles, speed bumps and mud. Prizes for the winners and best Roman costumes. The Chariot Races were started in 2008, and it is hoped this will become an annual event. More.

09 Jan 2010 [TBC] Wasailing, Firle, East Sussexl Saturday 18:00-23:00 Middle Farm BN8 6LJ. Hunters Moon Morris Men. Torch procession, bonfire, food, haystack stage, dance floor. The largest Wassail in East Sussex. Call 01323 769848. Middle Farm is on the A27, 4 miles east of Lewes and 7 miles west of Eastbourne, between the turnings to Ripe and Selmeston. Hunters Moon.

10 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Russian Winter Festival, Trafalgar Square London Sunday. 11:00 - 18:30. In collaboration with the Mayors of London and Moscow. Superb annual festival, highlighting the very best of Russian culture. Trafalgar Square, London. Stage attractions, Russian folk, pop and rock. Traditional Russian food, drink & souvenirs. Attendance 50,000+, and now a highlight of the season of super events in Trafalgar Square. Pictures (c) www.eventica.co.uk. 020 7183 2560 or e-mail : info@eventica.co.uk

 

10 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Arun Divers Charity Leap Sunday 12:30-15:00 Footbridge by Arun View Pub, Littlehampton BN17 5DD. Sponsored leap into the River Arun, raising money for local charities which do not get a lot of publicity. The jump is open to anyone willing to brave the elements and collect some money. Fancy dress optional. Safety boats ready to collect the intrepid jumpers, so they wont get too cold. Raffle and auction in the pub after the jump - prizes gratefully accepted. Call 01903 246816 for sponsor forms. 2009 Pictures www.arundivers.co.uk Arun Divers Charity Leap Map

08-10 Jan 2010 [TBC]  Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival. Fri-Sun. Procession Saturday 10:30-15:30. The procession contains over 250 dancers, musicians and performers from various parts of the British Isles performing traditional 'Molly', 'Morris', 'Clog' and 'Sword. There is also American style 'Appalachian' dancing, street performances and Mummers plays. A decorated plough pulled by a local Morris side is now a established part of the procession. Recently the Straw Bear has made friends with a German Straw Bear from Walldürn near Frankfurt, a town that celebrates its own Straw Bear Festival on the Monday before Shrove Tuesday. Although the festivities begin earlier in the week, the Saturday is the only day on which the 'Bear' makes an appearance before the 'Bear Burning' on the Sunday. This leaves the way open for a new bear to be created from the next season's harvest. Map

17 Jan 2010 [TBC] Thames Path Ultra. Saturday. A foot race covering 50 miles along the Thames Path from Reading to Shepperton. The start is located at the Meadows near Reading Station, and the finish at the Holiday Inn in Shepperton. Start 09:00, first runner expected at finish 16:00, presentations at 19:00. Thames Path Ultra.

24 Jan 2010 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Southampton.. Sunday. The year of The Tiger. 10:00-16:00 - Chinese Market at Bargate. 11:00 at the Civic Centre with the Mayor of Southampton performing the traditional ceremony of 'dim Jing' - dotting the eyes of the dragon. Chinese folk songs performed by the Chinese Association. Chinese folk dance. Dragon dance, lion dance and unicorn dance. Martial arts displays. A spectacular Chinese firecracker display. Dragon Parade, Civic Centre at 12:30 moving on through the City Centre stopping at various Chinese Restaurants on the way. It will eventually finish at Grosvenor Casino.

24 Jan 2010 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Liverpool. Sunday. The year of The Tiger. Celebrations include Dragon, Unicorn & Lion Dancing and special Chinese firework displays. The Chinese God of Wealth will visit Berry Street, Chinatown handing out lucky bags and blessing the restaurants and community associations.

24 Jan 2010 [TBC] The Soy Sauce & Ketchup Fight. Sunday 14:00 Colchester Castle Park. The ketchup scrap of the century. In the red corner – Yuan Chai, fighter and one half of the Partnership Mad For Real. In the blue corner JJ Xi, artist, fighter and the other half of the partnership Mad For Real. The two combatants enter the specially constructed bear pit armed with only their wits and a monumental supply of ketchup and soy sauce. Over the next half hour they set about each other with merciless abandon, at first dodging and ducking but eventually showering each other with wave upon wave of liquid condiments. It’s a fight to the finish with only one winner. Bets may be placed at Colchester Arts Centre. A partnership presentation between Colchester Arts Centre, University of Essex, and Colchester Borough Council. Free event. Second performance at the University of Essex (outside the Lakeside Theatre) on Mon 26 Jan at 13:00

26 Jan 2010 [TBC] Australia Day. Monday. Lots of pub events and parties around London.

26 Jan 2010 Up Helly Aa, Lerwick, Shetland Largest fire festival in Europe, celebrated on the last Tuesday of January every year. Torch-light procession of up to a thousand "guizers" through the streets of Lerwick, followed by the burning of a full-size replica Viking longship. A night of revelry, dancing and partying until dawn.

27 Jan 2010 [TBC] Chinese New Year, Southampton Solent University. Wednesday 17:15-19:00. Celebrate the year of the Ox for this years Chinese New Year. Authentic lion dance performed by the Waterside Lion Dancers, Chinese music by the Southampton Chinese Association and a complimentary light Chinese buffet. The event is free to all.

30 Jan 2010 [TBC] Tring 2 Town 40 mile Race. Sat-Sun. Started as a no-frills fun event in 2005, it has quickly become a regular fixture on the Ambition Events calendar. The 40 mile course follows the Grand Union Canal from Tring in Hertfordshire to Brentford in London. Competitors have a choice of which day and which direction to run, and for those looking for a real challenge, there is the option to run both days. On Saturday, the start is at Premier Travel Inn, Kew, and the finish at the Pendley Manor Hotel, near Tring. On Sunday, the reverse. Both days: 07:00 Registration, 08:00 Briefing, 08:15 Start, 14:30 First Runners Expected at Finish, 17:00 Presentation, 20:00 Stage Cut Off.

06 Feb 2010 [TBC] Marsden Imbolc Fire Festival, Huddersfield. Saturday 18:30-21:30. 1,500-strong lantern & torch parade with fire-jugglers, antler-wearing drummers, Celtic characters, fire druids, a 12ft Jack Frost and spring's Green Man. Through woodland. Starts from Marsden Station HD7 6AX, then up Reddisher Road to Tunnel End, into Waters Road then down the hill to the Watersedge area. With a fire 'circus' accompanied by music. Organiser Angie Boycott  says "a great atmosphere, a little bit edgy." Fantastic firework finale. Imbolc, pronounced "Imolc", is an ancient festival where fire represents the return of the Sun in the coming months. Contact: Angie Boycott Garnett 01484 842619 / 07717 227985. Marsden Information point 01484 845595 Open Tue 14:00-18:00, Wed-Sat 09:30-12:30, 13:00-16:00. Map

07 Feb 2010 [TBC] South Essex Radio Rally. Sunday. The Paddocks, Long Road, Canvey. Amateur radio & electronics. 01842 861089.

08 Feb - 26 Mar 2010 [TBC] Redbridge Dance Festival Every year in February and March dance fever takes over Redbridge with the launch of the annual Dance Festival. Always energetic and colourful the festival celebrates the richness and diversity of our borough and brings an exciting selection of performances. From ballet to traditional folk dances from around the world, this event gives different local community groups the chance to showcase their work in a professional context. Info 020 8708 2858

12-14 Feb 2010 [TBC] Zee Carnival, Olympia, London. Fri-Sun. Asian lifestyle exhibition and interactive event. Bollywood stars, music, fashion, shopping and multi-cultural food.

20 Feb 2010 [TBC] Slaithwaite Moonraking Festival (13-20 Feb) Saturday. Street procession and theatre, starting at 18:00. Based on a village tale about two 19th century smugglers who were collecting barrels of the illegal ‘moonshine’ drink from the canal. The smugglers hid the barrels and told the police they were trying to rake the moon’s reflection out of the canal. Thinking they were fools, the police let the smugglers go. Long procession of up to 3000 villagers and visitors with some 200 bearing lanterns made of willow withy and tissue paper and lit by live candles. The procession includes jazz, carnival and brass bands and follows a route through the village before returning to the canal. The tour takes about an hour. At the canal, performers re-enact the moonraking tale. Several men are dressed as gnomes, a woman is dressed as the moonraking fairy and two fancy dress policemen play the bagpipes. They all tow a moon-shaped lantern mounted on a float along the canal with the women using rakes to guide the lantern as it floats along and to "rake" it out. The celebrations start and end with a firework display. Different every year. 01484 843030 Program

22 Feb - 08 Mar 2010 [TBC] Fairtrade Fortnight The campaign that highlights global inequalities in trade and promotes Fairtrade products. Hundreds of Fairtrade Towns, Churches and Schools around the UK will promote Fairtrade at a regional level. Last year an estimated 12,000 separate activities and events took place during Fairtrade Fortnight - everything from parades, concerts and debates to coffee mornings, fashion shows and family days. In 2009, the Fairtrade Foundation expects to scale up this activity and reach an even greater number of people. Fairtrade Fortnight Action Guide

23 Feb 2010 The Great Spitalfields Pancake Race. Shrove Tuesday 12:30. Get together a sponsored team of four people to enter in the relay race. Bring your own frying pan - pancakes provided. Race run along Dray Walk at The Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane. Live music. Small prizes. 020 7375 0441.

23 Feb 2010 Olney Pancake Race. Shrove Tuesday. The original and unique Olney Pancake Race which is now world famous. Traffic stops while the competitors make their 415 yard dash from Market Place to Church Lane. Start at 11:55 - warning bells are rung from the Church steeple and the race is started by the Churchwarden.

23-24 Feb 2010 Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football 14:00-22:00. Start at Shawcroft car park. Each year on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, Ashbourne becomes a war zone. The majority of the able bodied men, women and children take to the streets to play the largest, most insane football game in the world. Shops are boarded up, and only an unsuspecting visitor would park his or her car in the town. The Goals are on the sites of Old mills, one at Clifton and one at Sturston, three miles apart. A goal is scored by a player striking the mill wheel three times with the Ball. The ball may be kicked, carried or thrown, but generally proceeds in a series of 'hugs' invisible to the spectator. The game can finish well after dark  If a goal is scored before 18:00, then a new game is started. If the goal is after 18:00, then the game ends for that day. Andy Savage's interactive map of the pitch. Video

28 Feb 2010 [TBC] St Davids Day Parade, Cardiff. 2000 strong parade with floats, flags, bands, dragons and participants in national or historic dress. Opening Ceremony 12:45 outside the National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park. Parade at 13:15. Route - City Hall, North Road, St Mary Street, Lloyd George Avenue, Pierhead, The National Assembly. St Davids Day

04-09 Mar 2010 [TBC] East Festival, London Six day festival of culture, food and performance - 400 events at multiple locations.

05-07 Mar 2010 [TBC] Swanage Blues Festival, Dorset Open mic, jam sessions, workshops, acoustic, electric, rural and urban blues. 40 gigs in 15 indoor venues, Open Mic every afternoon. Jam Sessions, accommodation from £14 per person per night here, full programme every afternoon and evening. Free admission. Organised by Steve Darrington.

06-07 Mar 2010 [TBC] The Yorkshire Brass Band Championships Sat-Sun. St George's Hall, Bradford. About £6 per day. Some of the finest Bands in Britain such as Black Dyke, Brighouse and Rastrick, Grimethorpe Colliery, YBS and many others all competing in the Championship Section. Few contests are so fiercely competitive.

06-07 Mar 2010 [TBC] Spring Festival of Food & Drink, Somerset. All the countys farmers markets in the largest event of its kind at the Royal Bath & West Showground. Ciders, Meats (including Bison and Duck), Fish, Cheese, Pies, Cakes, Breads, Chutneys, as well as Vegetable Plants, Crafts and Organic Food Delivery Service. Cookery demonstrations, workshops and fun competitions for the family. Entrance about £5.00. Ticket line 01749 822222.

07 Mar 2010 [TBC] Ashton Court Jog, Bristol. Sunday 11:00. 5k British Heart Foundation run in splendid surroundings. Multi-terrain course through woodlands, along bridle paths and grass tracks. Join hundreds of others for some fun in the great outdoors, whilst looking after your hearts. Get muddy and raise funds for the BHF. The event will start at 10:45 with a fun warm up by Fitness First. 0800 169 3672 westevents@bhf.org.uk

13 Mar 2010 [TBC]  Newroz Festival, London. Saturday. 12:00-18:00 Trafalgar Square. Middle East and Central Asian spring festival. Live music, dancing, and food. Free entrance.

13 Mar 2010 [TBC] International Students Festival. Sat. Third event. 2,000 expected to attend from all areas of the UK. Events to include films, fashion, discos etc. Various indoor venues - see link.

14 Mar 2010 [TBC] Sport Relief. Sunday. Biennial charity event from Comic Relief. In 2008, 400,000 ran for Sport Relief, raising £18million for Comic Relief. 1, 3 & 6 mile options. Sport Relief

14 Mar 2010 [TBC] St Patricks Parade, London Sunday 12:00 - 18:00. Parade of marching bands and colorful floats Hyde Park Corner 12:00 - Piccadilly to Trafalgar Square. Irish festival with live music, food and a bar in Trafalgar Square. St Patricks, London Video

16 Mar 2010 [TBC] St Patricks Day, Brent, London Tuesday. Parade Walm Lane/High Road (A407)  to Willesden Green Library Centre. 15:30 line-up, 16:00 start from Willesden Green Tube. Music stage outside Willesden Green Library Centre, Irish food, refreshments, crafts and market stalls. More 020 8937 3119. St Patricks, Brent Map

21 Mar 2010 Hastings Half Marathon Sunday. 10:30 start. Probably the best half marathon in the world. 5000 runners. Organised by The Hastings Lions Club. Seafront towards Battle, around back of town and down to the Old Town and fishing Village, then along the Seafront to the start. Popular with spectators. Highlights of the race that evening on ITVLocal.com when you get home. Entertainment around the route - 3 choirs and 2 bands, live music, a fairground organ, and the 'Morgan boat'. Route Map.

21 Mar 2010 [TBC] Pioneer Motorcycle Run, Brighton. Sunday. Pre 1915 motocycle run organised by The Sunbeam Motor Cycle Club. 08:00 start from Tattenham Corner, Epsom Downs. Over 300 usually take part in the run to Madeira Drive, Brighton. The Pioneer Run is a must-see - walk into a living museum for the day.

21 Mar 2010 [TBC] South Leeds 5 mile Road Race and 5km Fun Run. Middleton Park.

25 Mar - 03 Apr 2010 [TBC] Wrexham Science Festival. A diverse range of talks, demonstrations and exhibitions, launched by tv celebrity Philippa Forrester. A key feature will be a one day family event called Scientriffic, packed with interactive exhibitions, fun shows and much more. Download Programme (pdf)

27 Mar 2010 [TBC] The Fabulous Fezheads Fig & Date Fayre Saturday. New location every year - 2009 was Chepstow. 12:00 Fayre opens, 12:30 Dance performances, 14:00 Games Commence - Eye of the Camel, Fruit Rounders, Fig and Spoon race, Fig Roulette, Belly Dance competition, 18:30 presentation of prizes. The Fayre finishes with a 'NIGHT WITH THE FEZHEADS' with the Fez Band - not for the fainthearted. Free entrance. Fezheads@hotmail.com.

28 Mar 2009 Start of British Summer Time - clocks go forward 1 Hour.

28 Mar 2010 [TBC] Morris Minor London to Brighton Run. Sunday.

28 Mar 2010 [TBC] World Pooh Sticks Championships. Sunday 12:00 Days lock, Oxon. Organised by The Rotary Club of Sinodun.

28 Mar 2010 [TBC] Taxi Driver of The Year, Brighton. Sunday. Sponsored Taxi Driver Competition Madeira Drive.

31 Mar 2010 [TBC] Royal Horticultural Society Daffodil Day. 11:00 Coughton Court, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5JA. Led by Ian Tyler, Vice-President of the Daffodil Society. 1,000,000 daffodils, including the rare late-flowering Throckmorton daffodils. Tickets about £25, less for RHS members - 01789 762542.

02 Apr 2010 Public Holiday - Good Friday.

03 Apr 2010 Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race Saturday. Start 16:30. Up to 250,000 line the banks of the Thames between Putney and Mortlake. Giant tv screen at Bishops park near the start and Furnival Gardens Hammersmith. All pubs along the route crowded to capacity, and have a festive atmosphere. The Boat Race

03 Apr 2010 [TBC] The Grand National Saturday. Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool. 30 fences, 4 miles and 4 furlongs. The Steeplechase Enclosure is a great place to experience the atmosphere of the Grand National. Situated on the far side of the Melling Road, this enclosure allows great viewing of the Grand National itself, and a new seating facility, overlooking the Mildmay course, has now been created to allow viewing of all other races. Adult about £16, with accompanied under 16's free.

03-18 Apr 2009 [TBC] Smile Festival, London. 11:00 -19:00 St Katharine Docks, near Tower Bridge. A free festival of street performance and amazing live entertainment, set in one of London's secret waterside beauty spots - a perfect day out for all the family. Tel 020 7264 5311 gossip@skdocks.co.uk

04 Apr 2010 [TBC] Easter Bonnet Parade, London. Sunday 13:30 Cutty Sark Gardens. Free workshops have already taken place this week to help young people get their bonnets ready. Prizes on offer for the most creative bonnets include tickets to Greenwich Children’s Theatre Festival, books and easter eggs. Parade day will also feature the Gandini Jugglers, a Continental market and a showcase of greetings cars and pictures from Blackheath Arts Society, plus egg and spoon races for all ages.

04 Apr 2010 [TBC] Sharrow Lantern Carnival, Sheffield Sunday. Procession of hundreds of beautiful lanterns with a spectacular finale. Revelers congregate at 19:00 at Mount Pleasant Park, and the route is Vincent Road, Sharrow Lane, London Road, Lansdowne Estate and Cemetery Road, with the grand finale at Sheffield General Cemetery. The Vine Inn in Cemetery Road often has a DJ. Event finishes about 21:30. Sharrow Lantern Carnival. If it rains the carnival will be postponed, probably for a week - call Lu on 07854 983197 for info. Video Map.

04 Apr 2010 [TBC] Austin Seven Owners Club Run, Brighton. Madeira Drive.

04 Apr 2010 [TBC] Blackpool Marathon 09:00 start, along the golden mile.

05 Apr 2010 Public Holiday - Easter Monday.

05 Apr 2010 World Coal Carrying Championship. Easter Monday. Held at Gawthorpe near Wakefield. The main event starts at The Royal Oak, Owl Lane, and the course is about 1 mile. The men carry 50kg, and the women less. No event in the Olympic Games could stimulate more enthusiasm than this annual contest of stamina and muscle.

07-11 Apr 2010 [TBC] Winter Dressage Championships, Gloucestershire. Hartpury Arena. Spectator Information - whether you’re an avid dressage fan or know nothing about horses, you will be amazed by the power and elegance of the horses at the championships. Visitor access to each show day is free and anyone seeking some inspiration is encouraged to come along, soak up the atmosphere and see what championship level competing is all about. Gala performances Fri and Sat evenings, combining first class competition with a fantastic entertainment line up - see web site for details.

09-10 Apr 2010 [TBC] Clarence Park Free Music Festival. Clarence Park, Denby Dale Road, Wakefield. marci@themusiccollective.co.uk  07779 911914

09-11 Apr 2010 Isle of Wight International Jazz Festival. High quality event held at Bonchurch, East Dene. See website for tickets.

09-13 Apr 2010 Lewes Arts Festival. Fri-Tue. Multiple events & venues. 5 day event is not-for-profit, and several of the shorter concerts & workshops are free of charge.

17-18 Apr 2010 [TBC] UK Coach Rally, Brighton. Sat-Sun. Coach display Madeira Drive.

18 Apr 2010 [TBC] Lochaber Marathon 11:00 start. Map

17-18 Apr 2010 [TBC] South West Model Engineering, Model Making and Hobbies Exhibition Sat-Sun Royal Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet. Outdoor flying display, model railway layouts, engineering displays and supplies, model boat displays and supplies, workshops and demonstrations, war gaming competitions, model and remote control cars and planes, model helicopters, military vehicles and much more. Over 60 model engineering and modeling enthusiast clubs and over 80 traders. Entrance about £8.

24 Apr 2010 [TBC] Singapore Day, London. 10:30-17:00 Hampton Court Palace. Organiser: Government of Singapore. Entrance by e-ticket only.

24 Apr 2010 [TBC] Environmental Rock, Southampton. Saturday 12:00-18:00 The Hobbit Pub. 02380 710916. Environmental awareness event with music, information, ideas, tips and activities. Map

25 Apr 2010 [TBC] Shakespeare Marathon, Stratford Upon Avon. Sunday. Start 09:30. 3,300 runners.

25 Apr 2010 [TBC] Brimar Vintage Car Display, Somerset Sunday 12:00-16:00 Clarks Factory Shopping Village, Street, Somerset BA16 0BB. Over 75 vintage cars will be on display. This event is a well supported fundraiser with all monies raised going to The Childrens Hospice South West. Step back in time and enjoy a trip down memory lane. The oldest car entered so far is 1902. Free entry and all ages welcome.

25 Apr 2010 [TBC] London to Brighton Jaguar Run. Sunday. Car Rally to Madeira Drive.

01-22 May 2010 [TBC] Brighton Festival Fringe Held every Saturday during the three week brighton Festival. Brighton Festival Fringe transforms the Pavilion Gardens, Jubilee Square and New Road into Fringe City, with a wide range of performances including music, dance, comedy and theatre. Free outdoor arts festival attracting 30,000 people. Brighton Festival - Fringe City

01 May 2010 [TBC] Spalding Flower Parade Saturday 14:00 - 17:00. Parade of themed carnival floats, hand decorated with half a million tulip heads. The 4.5 mile route takes about 3 hours, and the roads are lined with upwards of 80,000 spectators. Plenty of activities over the weekend - see web site. Flower Parade.

01-02 May 2010 [TBC] May Day Canal Festival, Staffordshire Sat-Sun. Norbury Junction, Shropshire Union Canal, Staffordshire. Display of working boats, best decorated boat competition, childrens events, live music, hog roast, boat trips, open air service, craft stalls, brass bands, local charity stalls and vehicle displays. More 01952-883568.

01-02 May 2010 [TBC] Magnificent Motors, Eastbourne Sat-Sun. Annual display of vintage & classic vehicles on the seafront and the slopes near the Wish Tower. 500 vintage and classic cars, motorbikes, buses, steam traction engines, commercial and military vehicles. Seafront cavalcade at 10:00, both days. Trade stands, French Market, live music stage with local bands and small funfair. Free entrance. Attendance 25,000. Organised by Eastbourne Borough Council, in partnership with Eastbourne Historic Vehicle Club, East Sussex Omnibus Society plus a variety of other historic transport groups. Magnificent Motors

01-03 May 2010 [TBC] English Nationals Surf Competition. Sat-Mon Watergate Bay, Newquay

01-03 May 2010 [TBC] Welsh Nationals Surf Competition. Sat-Mon Freshwater West

02 May 2010 [TBC] Abingdon Air & Country Show. Sunday. Abingdon Airfield, Dalton Barracks 10:00 - 17:30. Air displays already confirmed include the Dukes of Cassutt air racing team, a newly restored Hawker Hurricane and a T-28 Fennec. Other air displays will be announced over the coming weeks.  There will also be static aircraft, an aircraft fly-in and pleasure flights. On the ground, new attractions this year include a farmers’ market and live musical performances by Fiona Harrison, who will be performing a medley of 1940s numbers. Other highlights include an RBS Williams Formula 1 Grand Prix Show Car, classic cars, a mobile farm, vintage military vehicles, Doctor Who Daleks, tank rides, arena events, trade stalls and a craft fair. Attendance 9000. More info 01235 529142. £10 on the gate - less in advance.

02 May 2010 [TBC] Beltane, Thornborough Henge. Sunday 12:00. A celebration of seasonal change and ancient mystery at one of Britain's most important prehistoric sacred sites. The Sacred Brigantia Players present a Mystery Play: The May Eve Haul - The Birth of Taliesin (children bring water pistols!). Entrance, stalls & camping are free. If you would like to get Handfasted (traditional betrothal ceremony) at this year’s Beltane then please contact the organisers. 07709 681581 info@sacredbrigantia.com

02 May 2010 [TBC] Mayday in Albion - Feast of Fools, Brighton. Sunday 12:00 Queens Park. Annual traditional English Fayre that brings to life the Spirit of Merry England through the time-honoured customs of Maypole Dancing, Mummers Plays, May Games, Folk Music and a right proper knees-up. Watch for our new Show - Merrymakers Music Hall - a homage to the folk and songs of Victorian Cockney London. The Fayre is free and for the love of it. www.bloodstonearts.com 07866 646916. danielbloodstone@gmail.com

02 May 2010 [TBC] Bupa Great Edinburgh Run Sunday. 10k road race is Edinburgh's fastest growing and most popular running event. 10,000 runners. Starts and ends on The Meadows, and passes many famous landmarks. Includes top athletes, thousands of club, fun and charity runners, and a junior event as well.  A great day out for all the family.

02 May 2010 [TBC] Robot Wars. Big, ferocious and deadly. Feel the floor vibrate when 100kg robots flip and crash. Entrance £12. Please arrive at least 45 mins before show start. 01277 262616.

02-03 May 2010 [TBC] International Beach Kite Festival, Weymouth. Sun-Mon, May Bank Holiday. Weymouth beach. Britain's biggest kite festival. Competitions, trade village and free childrens kite workshops. Funfair on the pavilion forecourt. Sunday night flying and international firework display at 21:20.

02-03 May 2010 [TBC] East Yorkshire Kite Festival, York. Sun-Mon, May Bank Holiday. 09:00-16:00 The Showground, Kellythorpe, Driffield Y025 9DN. Kite displays, traders, boot sale and classic cars. Main Arena events include Birds of Prey; Terrier Racing; Fire Service, Police; Air Ambulance and Road Recovery Services. Modest entrance charge.

02 May 2010 [TBC] Nun’s Run, London. Sunday 11:30 Dunster Court, Mincing Lane. 6km run around the City of London, over Tower Bridge and along the South Bank in conjunction with the West End musical Sister Act and in aid of Barnardo's. Entrants receive a Nuns Habit to wear, and much hilarity is guaranteed as runners mingle with dumbfounded tourists in front of the Tate Modern. More Barnardos fund-raising events

30 Apr - 03 May 2010 [TBC] Jack In The Green, Hastings Fri-Mon. Live music and celebration all weekend. Giant procession of 1500 performers on Monday  - 09:45 for 10:15 Rock-a-Nore Road. Attendance 10,000. Finale in the castle where Jack is symbolically slain. Jack In The Green, Hastings

30 Apr -15 May 2010 [TBC] Norfolk & Norwich Festival Multiple events, with an evening fire show at Earlham Park on the first Saturday.

01-03 May 2010 [TBC] Canalway Cavalcade, Little Venice, London Sat-Mon. 10:00. Organised by the Inland Waterways Association and held over the early May Bank Holiday. Boat rally, trade show and entertainment. 3 minutes walk from Paddington station, with some on-street parking. 07753 635006. Map

03 May 2010 Early May Bank Holiday

 03 May 2010 [TBC] Lewes Garland Day. Monday Bank holiday tradition revived by the Knots of May woman's Morris team.10:00 Lewes Castle. Garland Competition by the children of Lewes and surrounding villages, judged by the Mayor of Lewes. 11:00 Procession down High Street to Cliffe Bridge. Prizes for the prettiest garlands in the competition. Dancing by The Knots of May and Chanctonbury Ring Morris Men.

03 May 2010 [TBC] Rainham May Fayre. Monday 10:00-16:00. Donkey rides, Punch & Judy, fun fair, side-stalls and plenty of ice cream. Free entrance, plus free entrance to the National Trusts' Rainham Hall, where costumed guides will bring history to life. Concert party by local schools and brownies in the Churchyard of St Helen and St Giles with extra events in the Hall Garden . Village closed to traffic as over 50 craft games, charity and food stalls will be set up with free entertainment being given from wandering minstrels and Morris Men. Craft show in the Royals Youth Club.  Local shops will be seasonally decorated. Rainham is a meeting point of two long distance paths and the recently opened Ingrebourne Hill part of Thames Chase.  Watch the Eurostar train pass through. Not far away is Rainham Marshes run by RSPB . Good food and drink will be found in the six café-restaurants and three village pubs who will put on their own entertainment. Roger Norrington 01708 552804.

07-09 May 2010 [TBC] Holmfirth Festival of Folk Excellent community based festival which draws in a large audience. The events take place in the local pubs and on the streets. The vast majority of the events are free, although audiences are encouraged to contribute to the collection buckets. Because of the nature of the venues, don’t expect big names, but be assured that you will get quality. The concerts in the Old Bridge function room and the Ceilidh are paid events. Look out also for local poet Simon Armitage and Roger Davies with rock band The Scaremongers, who play at CragRats, and 'big names' at the Picturedrome (ticketed).

08 May 2010 Helston Flora Day. Saturday. 07:00 The Morning Dance, Guildhall. 08:30 The Hal-an-Tow, St John's Bridge. 09:50 The Children's Dance, Wendron Street. 12:00 The Midday Dance, Guildhall. 17:00 The Evening Dance, Guildhall. Video

08 May 2010 [TBC] VE Day Celebrations, Ripon. Saturday. 10:00-16:00 Market Square and city centre. Displays of wartime memorabilia from re-enactment groups UK Homefront, the 101st Airborne and the Home Guard; Land Army style display of live penned farm animals from Bygones Farm of Ripley, original 1930s and 1940s vehicles, military jeeps and even a 1930s fruit and vegetable van. There will also be an educations display from the James Herriot Museum in Thirsk, and static displays courtesy of Royal Engineers and the Royal British Legion. Free. Tel 01765 609883

08 May 2010 [TBC] Thundersprint Bike Show Saturday 10:00 outside the Memorial hall, Northwich town centre. 100 classic, custom and race bikes, seminars and information on everything from clothing to bike insurance. Plenty of traders selling lots of bargains, BikeSafe interactive learning experience, food and drink. Meet Thundersprint stars in the afternoon. Free admission. The Thundersprint Sunday. 06:00 safety checks,  08:30-11:30 Practice, 12:00 cavalcade, 13.20 Spitfire aerobatic display, 13:40 The Thundersprint - tight circuit with one bike at a time racing against the clock on a quarter mile circuit. Each run is short - under 30 seconds - and the action is intense. Map The whole weekend is free on both days – admission, parking & grandstands.

08-09 May 2010 [TBC] Cranfleet Yacht Rally. Sat-Sun 12:00-18:00 Cranfleet Lock Club House, Long Eaton. Cranfleet are holding their annual yacht rally and are open to guests!! A weekend of entertainments by the river. Including Morris Dancers, Folk sessions, fun games and much much more!! So get in touch for more details. 01623 559800. D'Pau Entertainments Map

08-09 May 2010 [TBC] Swindon International Kite Festival. Sat-Sun. Brinkworth House, Chippenham, Wilts SN15 5DF. See link for this and other kite events.

08 May - 26 Jun 2010 [TBC] Pulse Festival, London. London’s festival of contemporary and traditional Central and Eastern European culture with music, themed food and drink market. Multiple events. 0208 457 7664 pishter@pishter.com

09 May 2010 [TBC] Bracknell Half Marathon Sunday. 09:00 from South Hill Park Arts Centre. More

09 May 2010 [TBC] Baishakhi Mela, London. Sunday 11:00-19:00 Allen Gardens, Brick Lane. Bengali New Year Festival with food and live music. Often opens with a costumed parade with tigers and elephants - Allen Gardens to Weavers Fields. Attendance 100,000.

09 May 2010 [TBC] MG Regency Run, Brighton. Sunday. Car Rally Madeira Drive

09 May 2010 [TBC] May Fayre & Puppet Festival, Covent Garden, London. Sunday 10:30-17:30. Annual celebration of the art of puppetry with Punch and Judy Professors from all over the country commemorating the first sighting of Mr Punch in England by Samuel Pepys in 1662. St Paul's Church Gardens, Bedford Street WC2. Admission Free.

15 May 2010 [TBC] Family Fun Day, Wild Park, Moulsecoomb Saturday 09:00-17:00. Started in 1978 by the Brighton Festival but now an independent community event with an attendance of over 5,000. Country and western bands, birds of prey, Indians, tepees, shoot-outs, steam engines, car boot sale, craft and trade stands, funfair, pony rides, clowns and face painting. Free entrance, £1 parking. More. Further information may be available from The Events Office, Room 501, King's House, Grand Avenue, Hove BN3 2LS. Tel: 01273 292711. For car boot pitches call 01273 701152 More - The Argus

15 May 2010 [TBC] Harley Davidson Parade and Bike Show, Weymouth. Lodmoor Country Park Events Area. Parade of over 400 gleaming Harley Davidson bikes parade along the Weymouth Seafront at 12:30 before forming up as a static display at the Lodmoor Event Area.

 

Pride Events 15-16 May 2010 [TBC] Blackpool 19 Jun 2010 [TBC] Sheffield 26 Jun 2010 [TBC] Swansea 26 Jun 2010 [TBC] Outburst Blk London 26 Jun 2010 [TBC] Edinburgh 03 Jul 2010 [TBC] London 03 Jul 2010 [TBC] Derby 09-11 Jul 2010 [TBC] Bournemouth 09-11 Jul 2010 [TBC] Manchester Sparkle 15-18 Jul 2010 [TBC] Torquay 17 Jul 2010 [TBC] Thanet 24 Jul 2010 [TBC] Nottingham 24 Jul 2010 [TBC] Hull 24 Jul - 31 Aug 2010 [TBC] Belfast 31 Jul 2010 [TBC] Brighton 07 Aug 2010 [TBC] Truro 07 Aug 2010 [TBC] Cheltenham 07 Aug 2010 [TBC] Stoke 14 Aug 2010 [TBC] Black London 14 Aug 2010 [TBC] Plymouth 14 Aug 2010 [TBC] Swindon 15 Aug 2010 [TBC] Doncaster 20-30 Aug 2010 [TBC] Manchester 21 Aug 2010 [TBC] Lincolnshire 04 Sep 2010 [TBC] Reading 12 Sep 2010 [TBC] Barnsley 07 Oct - 07 Nov 2010 [TBC]