Anticipated during the upcoming August Bank Holiday Weekend, hordes of visitors are set to congregate in the charming Leicestershire village of Desford for its sixth annual scarecrow festival. The event, spanning from Saturday through Monday, with daily hours from 10 am to 6 pm, is adopting an animation theme this year. Village residents are enthusiastically constructing their unique interpretations of beloved classic cartoon characters.
Within this vibrant festival, attendees will encounter 84 creatively crafted scarecrows forming a captivating scarecrow trail. Complementing this intriguing trail, an array of stalls, a well-appointed beer tent, and a variety of entertainment options will be available. These diversions encompass bouncy castles, face painting, engaging pony rides, and captivating birds of prey demonstrations.
The focal points of this year’s 2023 edition will be the verdant grounds of St. Martin’s Church and the adjacent Pickards Park. Moreover, the church center along Main Street will host a temporary cafe, while popular children’s characters such as Mickey & Minnie, Skye from Paw Patrol, and Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head will make appearances.
A medley of musical performances on the church green will feature artists like Benji Williams, Big Bad Wilf, The Bodoons, and the Syston Brass Band. Ample parking will be available at Bosworth Academy, alongside designated disabled parking at Desford Dental Practice. Facilities like restrooms can be accessed at the village library, church center, and primary school.
Dedicated members of the “Scarecrew” will be stationed throughout the village throughout the weekend, offering assistance as needed and vending event programs and trail guides. The funds amassed from this gathering will be channeled to support local charitable initiatives and community groups.
The enthusiastic Scarecrew extended a warm invitation, urging everyone to partake in what is poised to be the highlight event of Desford, proclaiming: “Join us in the grandest celebration Desford has to offer!”
