Canterbury’s legendary Medieval Pageant and fun-packed Family Trail are back on Saturday 1 July 2023 for the 8th fantastic year. The wildly popular event has a twist in its tail this time with a medieval animals theme!
Organised by Canterbury Business Improvement District (Canterbury BID), the event is an established highlight of the city’s summer season, seeing thousands of spectators and participants every year. Lisa Carlson, CEO of Canterbury BID, says: “we’re so excited about this year’s animal-themed Medieval Pageant. The parade always has such a fun atmosphere, inspiring people to stay for the day and explore all the city has to offer – from our heritage attractions to green heritage to the huge variety of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.”
The merriment begins at 11am at the Westgate Towers. From there, a parade of jaunty pilgrims will lead the pageant through the city, finishing at The Marlowe Forecourt. Knights on horseback, re-enactment groups, historical characters and medieval animals will all play their part in the procession, accompanied by rapturous fanfares and medieval music. The magnificent giants of Henry II, Queen Eleanor and Thomas Beckett will have starring roles, providing the ultimate medieval ‘wow’ factor.
Then it’s Family Trail time: an easy-to-follow route around Canterbury city centre with 18+ different participating venues. Pick up a trail leaflet – available across the city – and set off on a fascinating journey of discovery. Learn surprising facts about real and mythical medieval animals and spot their secret and not-so-secret hiding places around the medieval buildings of Canterbury. Visit at least 5 locations and claim a giant chocolate coin!
The trail is for people of all ages and is a great way to take in all that the city is offering as part of the day, from outdoor theatre to pottery-making, knight fight club battles to medieval animal hunts and much more. And if you need a break, Canterbury’s wonderful businesses will be ready to welcome you in for a pitstop from all the medieval madness.
Local Canterbury schoolchildren are having fun preparing for the pageant too: they are busy creating costumes and masks around the medieval animals theme, as well as practising beastly noises and imaginative dances to bring them to life during the parade.
The 8th Canterbury Medieval Pageant and Family Trail promises to be bigger and better than ever. Join the throng and cheer along!
For more details visit canterburybid.co.uk/canterbury-medieval-pageant/
