A 'something for everyone' weekend which both involves the Ilfracombe community and brings in visitors which is good for the local economy. We have tried to include all sorts of entertainment so that we have something to suit every taste. The majority of the labour to organise, marshal and work on the day is voluntary and provided by community organisations such as our own (Events4Ilfracombe) and Lions/Rotary etc. What we have set out to do is provide a decent sized event halfway through July which for events has always been Ilfracombe's 'missing month'.
What we'll deliver:
- A craft fayre on Fore Street (Sun only)
- A Morris dance and music workshop (Sat & Sun)
- A talk on William Morris and a week long exhibition (Fri to Fri)
- Local accoustic musicians will perform on Fore Street which will be closed for the day (Sun)
- Our Ilfracombe brewery will be producing a special Morris ale
- An awards event for Street Food Vendors (The North Devon Street Food Awards) (Sat)
- Linking to the Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club Regatta the same weekend (shared PR etc) (Sat)
- Morris dancing (Sat & Sun)
- Morris vehicle (& other vehicles) show and a rally if possible (Sun)
Why it's a great idea:
It gets people together. Loads of people who wouldn't normally mix come together both to get things done and also to enjoy the event. It brings people into the town both from elsewhere in North Devon and also holidaymakers who stay for the weekend giving the whole weekend a much wider scope.
Steps to get it done:
- Currently working on PR
- Preliminary work has already been completed
- Participants are already in place
- Volunteers are already in place
Most of the preliminary work is complete (licenses, risk assessments, road closures etc). This can be done with relatively few financial resources. We are now on PR and have had time donated from a local social media company and also space in the local paper. Participants (Morris sides, musicians etc) are not charging for their time but we need to provide food, free parking and also free camping. The camping has been donated. We have also borrowed equipment but will need to hire some things.
