Events in United Kingdom

Dredging the First Oyster
Colchester
September, 2010

When you think of oyster dredging you don't normally tie civic dignitaries in full regalia with it. But in Colchester the tradition of the First Oyster Dredge is a royal one. The borough's ownership of the oyster banks dates back to the charter of 1189, and the opening ceremony can be dated back as far as 1540. At the end of the summer the time-honored opening of the oyster-fishing season in the Pyefleet Channel off Mersea Island begins. The Mayor of the Borough of Colchester, along with the Chief Executive and the Town Serjeant, marks the opening by dredging the first oyster, followed by an oyster lunch on the barge Hydrogen.

The Braemar Gathering (Scottish Highland Games)
Braemar
September 4, 2010

Host to unique and lesser known sporting events, Highland games have grown to be a very popular event among the Scottish and in recent years a more international crowd. The Braemar Gathering is the pinnacle of highland games. Highland games consist of a tug of war competition, hill running, hammer throwing, long leap, sack races, stone putting, relay race and the ever unique caber toss or throwing of a telephone pole. The games are also host to plenty of dancing and music as well, sure to provide entertainment for the whole family.

Bognor Birdman Competition
Bognor Regis
September 11 - September 12, 2010

Bognor Birdman is an annual gathering of an unusual sort. People gather at the seaside resort of Bognor Regis to watch the annual flying competition, and we’re not talking 747’s either. Entrants to this competition must design, build and fly home made flying machines with the intent of staying in the air longer than the other competitors. A prize of £25,000 is awarded to any competitor who manages to fly 100 meters. Many entrants to this competition do so as a way to raise money for charity.

Sparks in the Park
Bute Park, Coopers Field
October, 2010

Organized by the Cardiff Round Table, Sparks in the Park is the largest fireworks display in Wales, with the added benefit of the Cardiff Castle as a backdrop. This event takes place in Coopers Field in Bute Park, located just behind the castle. Prior to the show there are rides for the children and then the bonfire is lit and the fireworks display begins.

Nottingham Goose Fair
Forest Recreation Ground, Nottingham
October 6 - October 9, 2010

Nottingham's Goose Fair dates all the way back to 1284 when it was originally held in the city centre. In medieval times the fair was for people of Nottingham to stock up on produce before winter. Today the fair has been moved to the much more spacious Forest Recreation Ground on the outskirts of Nottingham. It has more then 150 state of the art rides and 450 games, sideshows and stalls; from the latest scream inducing rides to vintage carousels for all age's amusements. With more then 200 trade stalls including food, jewelry, pictures, pottery and other local crafts, there's plenty to keep all the family entertained for the whole day.

Santa's Grotto
Bristol Zoo Gardens
December, 2010

Each year Santa and his helpers make a special stop to the Bristol Zoo Gardens. For a small fee, your children can whisper a secret wish and get a gift he didn't ask for into the bargain. This is a magical local custom that would be perfect for you and your family.

Lantern Boat Parade
Hartlepool Marina
December 4, 2010

Each year in December, Hartlepool's Marina lights up for the amazing Lantern Boat Parade. Beautifully-decorated boats illuminate the water, during which music, street theatre, a market and firework displays take place in the sky and on land.