Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival's 20th anniversary

The arrival of the tall ship Minerva is one of the highlights of the festival and is available for the public to book a sail out to sea along the River Yare.  Other ships include the George Stephenson, the Lydia Eva and the Marie plus there are also some special guest vessels which will be announced just before the festival.

This year will see a number of new shanty acts appearing for the very first time alongside some regular visitors to the festival. So look out for the Exmouth Shanty Men, the Rogue Shanty Buoys, Baldrick's plan, John Ward Trio, Exmouth Shanty Men and the Sea Band amongst many others performing in one of the four performance areas including new for this year the floating ship Marie moored along the quayside where many of the artistes will be performing from onboard the ship.  The event music programme is organised by Sue and John Griffiths who also perform as the shanty band the Mollyhawks,

If you are bringing the family along there is a wide range of activities for children including Punch & Judy shows throughout the day and new for this year a Makendoo Workshop held between 10.30-12.30 and 1-3, children and adults of all ages can join in the fun, painting and creating a range of masks, hats, puppet characters and small banners, all finished off with plenty of glitter. Children leave the workshop carrying, wearing and waving their artworks, which are lasting souvenirs of a great day out.

The maritime festival would not be complete without Horatio Herring, Mrs H, Lofty the Lighthouse, Inner State and the eternal favourite Captain Jack but new for this year they will be joined by Lobster a la Cart who definitely stands out in the crowd and the Beach Patrol - lifeguards with a twist. There will be various demonstrations throughout the weekend from the Norfolk Militia and for those interested in Maritime History, you can visit the Heritage Quarter marquee to learn more about the ship building of yesteryear.  Then explore the town hall where amongst other things you can try on the Mayor's robes and marvel at the regalia and the town's silver on display and then visit the Pop Up Café.

If you are looking for an interesting but fun day out in Great Yarmouth this weekend, head down to South Quay and visit the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival 2019.

The festival is open on Saturday 7th September from 10am to 6pm and Sunday 8^th September 10am to 5pm, South Quay, Great Yarmouth. Activities and entertainment are free but a donation of £2 per visitor towards the festival costs is welcomed

The event is organised by Greater Yarmouth Tourism and Business Improvement Area (GYTABIA)

For more information about Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival go to www.maritime-festival.co.uk or on social media www.facebook.com/maritimefestival

Press release issued on behalf of the Greater Yarmouth Tourism and Business Improvement Area, September 3, 2019.