For the organisers of the event the day starts at 6 a.m. with tasks such as the decorating of the market cross and the preparation of sandwiches for the children in visiting bands.
The crowning of the Festival Queen, takes place at the Market Cross at 11 a.m.
Following the crowning of the Festival Queen the morning procession will proceed through the streets led by the Morris Dancers, the festival and retiring queens, plus many other queens from surrounding villages and churches.
One of the highlights of the day must be the brightly decorated children’s tableaux. Parents have been very busy these past few weeks putting the floats together, and I’m sure that the usual large crowds will appear to marvel at the quality of the tableaux and to show their appreciation.
There are often several bands in attendance on the day: Pilling brass band, Brindle brass band, Red Rose brass band, The Hyndburn Comets Majorette Troupe, Bolton Scottish Pipe Band, Lancaster City Brass Band and St Peters Brigade Band from Preston.
Also taking part in the procession are the Garstang School of Gymnasium and members from the scouts and guides.
On completion of the morning procession, attention will switch to the Moss Lane playing fields where activities will start at 1.10 pm with a display from the Children’s Festival Morris Dancers followed by displays from the Garstang School of Gymnasium and the Hyndeburn Comets Majorette Troupe. Attention will then switch to the ever popular children’s sports which will commence at approximately 2.00 pm, these will be followed by the football semi finals.
Throughout the afternoon there are many attractions for the younger children including the presence of a professional face painter, children’s rides, bouncy castles and Punch & Judy shows. All activities are free of charge so bring the little ones down for a great family day out.
Refreshments are available throughout the afternoon.
The evening procession starts at 6 p.m. at Moss Lane playing fields. This will include the fancy dress parade in which there are many prizes to be won. The fancy dress parade is open to anyone. Entries are accepted from 5.15pm on Moss Lane playing fields, with judging taking place between 5.30pm and 6.00pm. and along the procession route.
So why not try your luck and have great fun at the same time?
The day concludes with the final of the football competition at 7.30pm.
For more information please visit our website www.garstangchildrensfestival.org
