Spring Fayre

10am – 4pm

We welcome back Spring with the much-loved Spring Fayre.

The Spring Fayre has the feel of a village fete, and this year is a celebration of all things folk, to tie in with our ‘Un/Common People – Folk Culture in Wessex’ exhibition.

Blending memories of celebrations on the village green, family games, music and ancient traditions, visitors will get the chance to relax and enjoy as well as try out and learn about folk dance and crafts. Alongside favourites such as Morris dancing, and spinning stalls, new features for this year include live music, a kiddy ceilidh and a children’s folk scratch orchestra- bring your own instruments if you have them! There will also be face painting, maypole and Longsword dancing, and the creation of a collaborative community art piece from willow.

Joining us is folklorist Vikki Bramshaw, who will be giving a fascinating talk on ‘Wessex Witches’, delving into the historic and folklore witches of the Wessex Counties, including the shapeshifting witches of Beaulieu and the sisters of Grovely Woods. Vikki explores the stories of these women and how history, superstition, and the march of time has transformed them into legends.

Scheduled events start from 10:15, so come early!

Well-behaved dogs welcome, except in the museum galleries (nb – assistance dogs are allowed in galleries).

Includes entry to all galleries.

Programme:

10:15 Longsword Dance

10:30 Longsword Workshop

11:00 Kiddie Ceilidh

11:30 Morris Dancing

12:00 Folk Gig with Ford Collier

13:00 Maypole

13:30 Talk: Wessex Witches with Vikki Bramshaw

13:45 Morris Dancing

14:00 Children’s Scratch Orchestra – bring your own instruments!

14:30 Maypole

15:00 Morris Dancing

15:15 Folk Gig with Emily Askew

15:45 Longsword Dance