Family fun in Stoke this Bank Holiday weekend

Stoke-on-Trent is set to come alive with a vibrant mix of folk traditions, delicious food, and creative activities as the Brilliant Bamboo initiative launches a new spring gathering. The event, called BAM Holiday Sunday, will take place on Sunday 3 May at the Brownfield Parklet in Stoke town centre. Families are invited to drop by the Boothen Road space between 11:30 am and 4 pm for a day filled with fun and engagement.

The event promises a variety of activities that celebrate the region’s heritage and creativity. Visitors can watch and participate in Morris dancing led by Domesday Morris, or join in with the Folk Dance Remixed maypole performance, which blends traditional folk music with modern hip-hop beats. There will also be a range of creative workshops and hands-on activities throughout the day, offering something for everyone.

Artist and maker Anthony Hammond will lead the creation of a dead-hedge area using sustainably coppiced willow and materials sourced from the site. This project aims to transform the space into an artistic and natural feature. Holly Johnson and Eve Travis will showcase bespoke May Day headdresses and armbands, with visitors having the opportunity to make their own creations in a workshop led by Holly Johnson and Fran Buxton.

In addition to these activities, there will be clay-making sessions led by artist Olivia Azzopardi. Chloe Rickett will offer bamboo-based workshop activities throughout the day, allowing participants to explore the potential of this versatile material. The evolving Brilliant Bamboo Brownfield Parklet space will also be open for exploration, giving visitors a chance to see how the site is being transformed.

Food will be available from Neena’s Kitchen, offering a variety of tasty options for visitors to enjoy. Drinks will also be on sale throughout the day, ensuring that everyone can stay refreshed while taking part in the festivities.

Gemma Thomas, founder of Brilliant Bamboo, shared her vision for the event: “We wanted to create something that feels easy and joyful – a chance for people to come together, celebrate spring and enjoy this space in a different way. Visitors can drop in, stay as long as they like and be part of what we hope could become a new seasonal tradition for the city.”

For those interested in the full programme of activities, more details can be found online. This event is a wonderful opportunity to experience the cultural richness of Stoke-on-Trent and to engage with the community in a meaningful way.