St George's day
By Dave Woodhall.
Over the past few years there has been a welcome upsurge in St George’s Day celebrations.
Without getting into too deep a debate, while the revival of the St Patrick’s Day parade has led to Digbeth hosting a friendly, family-orientated carnival, St George’s Day has seen drink-related problems with pubs forced to close and a hostile atmosphere throughout areas of the city centre. There’s nothing political about that – it’s a fact. However, credit where it’s due and Bimingham city council have been foremost in attempts to present the day in a much more positive light. In association with the Birmingham St George’s Day Association they have announced plans for the city’s celebrations, which this year fall during the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.
On Saturday 23rd April Victoria and Chamberlain Squares will host a free fete, with St George in attendance, along with traditional English food and drink – including a hog roast, local ale and cider. Children can enjoy rides, free face painting and crown and Easter bonnet workshops.
There will also be Morris dancing and a Mummers play in Victoria Square as well as a stage with live music and entertainment throughout the day. Compered by BBC WM presenters Bev Bevan, Jenny Wilkes and Loyd Williams, music will be provided by tribute bands Absolute Bowie and the Fab Beatles alongside Sovereign Brass, folk band Suntrap and the Central England Ensemble.
There will be an English craft and farmers market along New Street. At Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, there’s music from Squeake’s Noyse from 11am–4pm in the galleries and both the Shakespeare Memorial Room and Centre for the Child at Central Library are holding Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrations throughout the day. Birmingham Cathedral on Colmore Row has bell ringing, prayers and an Easter liturgy.
The St George’s Day Celebrations are organised by the city council in partnership with Birmingham St George’s Day Association. The Association is also organising the annual ‘Celebrating England Concert’ at Symphony Hall in the evening. For more information call 0121 303 3008 or go to www.birmingham.gov.uk/st-george