Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer on the colourful parade as it moved through Basingstoke town centre on Friday 17 June.
Created by Proteus Theatre Company and funded by Anvil Arts, the opening parade saw local and professional performers, school children, giant puppets and walkabout acts, with music, dance and dazzling costumes. There was everything from giant kangaroos to pecking pigeons, and a huge 10 foot high moving robot made from recycled materials.
This spectacular sight marked the beginning of the fifth Basingstoke Festival, coordinated by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. The festival offers more than 100 events for all ages and interests and includes family and arts events, exhibitions and workshops.
Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Jane Frankum, who started off the parade, said: “I am very glad so many people brought their families and friends along to join in the carnival parade fun. It really set the tone of the festival and showed people that working together can create something truly wonderful.”
This year’s Basingstoke Festival has an array of amazing events, including mini-festivals, food festivals and free family entertainment.
There will be many high quality acts from across the UK and the world, including Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Tibetan Monks and singing star Russell Watson. There are also plenty of opportunities to appreciate local theatre, dance, art and history, showcasing the talent and vibrant life of the borough.
For more details about the festival and the full festival programme visit www.basingstokefestival.co.uk or follow Basingstoke Festival on Twitter @BstokeFestival, Facebook BasingstokeFestival and on Instagram #Bstokefestival
