The Northgate Quarter Festivals are back for summer 2014! These are some of the best events to come to Cheshire this summer and are sure to attract big crowds so put the dates in your calendar.
The aim of these vibrant festivals is to transform the historical area in Chester into a music, dance, art and cultural hotspot. The festivals comprise a series of events spread across the summer months to ensure there is always something exciting and entertaining to look forward to.
The festivals have already begun having started with a few initial smaller events in May, such as the Spring Music Festivals and will end in late August on the bank holiday weekend. If you were in Chester City last weekend you may have spotted the Mod Music Fest but there is plenty more to come.
The festivals have been praised as the antidote to consumerism as they are organised and performed by local artists and everyone is welcome.
All of the Northgate Festivals taking place this summer are held in Rufus Court in the Northgate Quarter, Chester CH1 2JW.
There are frequent trains to Chester City from all Cheshire and Wirral stations so there is no excuse not to come and enjoy the culture.
Some of the upcoming festivals include:
The Art Fair – This festival takes place throughout the summer from the 7th of July until August 30th every Saturday from noon until 5pm. Chester artists will be present at various stalls throughout the Northgate Quarter. In addition to the colourful street gallery there will be life drawing classes where you can show up and paint, get tips of painting or turn up to be a model for half an hour if you are wearing something interesting and unique.
As part of the Art Fair there will also be an Art Treasure Trail from Handel’s Court Gallery around Chester.
Kids – Special aspects of the fair will be put on for children and families throughout the summer. Just turn up and see what’s happening.
Friday Rocks – Every Friday this summer expect some fantastic musical entertainment in the evening.
Acting to Zumba – Another festival that will be on throughout the summer period is Acting to Zumba in Grosvenor’s Open Air Theatre. Acting classes will be run every Tuesday from 7pm until 9pm. Look out for life drawing and posing for a sketch opportunities too and there will some special Zumba parties on the 12th of July and 9th of August.
Summer Strum – July 6th – This is the next big individual event to grace Cheshire which will include a free ukulele festival and you can even take part in the extra workshop with Fred Arnell if you book separately.
Sing for the Moment – July 13th – This festival will bring choirs from across the region to perform for us. This part of the Northgate Festivals was a huge hit last year so do not miss out.
Create, Enjoy, Perform – July 20th – This is a newcomer to the Northgate Festivals for 2014 and will feature many artistic projects such as drama, dance and workshops.
Arty Party – July 27th- A delightful day of crafts and arts hat the whole family can enjoy with parades and giant beasts on offer!
History Alive – 8th/10th August- Form the Sealed Knot society comes a massive civil war re-enactment that will spread throughout Chester City. The field site next to Abbey Green will be the main focus and there will be troops in dress up, music, dance and food. The theme is King Charles’ Court.
Massive Musical Mash Up – 24th August – This will be the last big party of the summer as the Northgate Festivals wind to a close. It will be a huge musical performance with amazing local bands.
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