Buxton Well Dressing Festival
When: 7th – 13th July 2024
T: 01298 70156
About
Encompassing a huge range of events for all the family, this annual festival takes place in the first two weeks of July every year.
Celebrating the ancient Derbyshire tradition of well dressing, the highlight is Buxton Carnival Day, this year taking place on 13th July 2024; one of Derbyshires biggest annual events attracting thousands, with the carnival parade featuring floats, foot characters and local visiting carnival queens from other towns and villages.
The public can view the spectacular petal displays being created at St.John’s Church which are then displayed in the town centre throughout the festival.
Well Dressing is an age-old tradition, predominantly observed in the limestone-rich regions of the Peak District in Derbyshire. Its origins are traced back to the Roman and Celtic eras, where communities adorned wells as a gesture of gratitude for the invaluable fresh water sources. This custom endures today across various towns and villages from May to September annually. People of all ages, from youngsters to elders, come together to craft vibrant living artworks using flower petals and natural elements. These creations depict diverse themes, ranging from biblical narratives to significant commemorations.
Carnival Day sees a procession of floats, carnival queens, bands, foot characters and more.
James Mellor’s Well Dressing Funfair takes place on Buxton Market Place 10th – 14th July 2024.
Live bands, entertainment and activities for all the family take place during the festival including live music at Pavilion Gardens and outside Queens Head Hotel during Carnival Day afternoon (High Street, Higher Buxton).
A Parade of Queens takes place later in the day on Carnival Day in the Pavilion Gardens. Various other events take place throughout – the full programme of will be published nearer the time.
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