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Summer's almost behind us, but there's no reason to feel blue - look at these Staffordshire things to do!
1. The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance
This has to be the quirkiest event in Staffordshire, if not the whole country!
The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance (9th September) dates back to the 13th Century, and features 12 dancers on a procession around Abbots Bromley and surrounding villages.
They include a man dressed as Maid Marian, a Hobby Horse, and six Deer-men, who wear ancient reindeer antlers which are older than the dance itself, having been carbon-dated to 1065.
No-one really knows why they do it, but what we do know is it makes a great spectacle and people visit from all over the world to see it for themselves.
There's also a village fair, Morris dancing and plenty more to enjoy on the day. And you can have a go at the dance yourself if you ask nicely!
2. 25 Years in Snowbusiness, SnowDome
It's hard to believe it's a quarter of a century since the SnowDome opened and became the first real snow indoor skiing venue in the country, but it's true!
To celebrate, there will be a host of birthday events to enjoy on the 14th and 15th September (keep an eye on our Facebook page for details), and from 1st September, recreational skiers and snowboarders can indulge in 25 hours of slope time in the month for just £25!
What's more, you can have a full day of activities, with ski/snowboard taster lessons, tobogganing, ice skating, and climbing, for only £25 on 14th & 15th September - and you'll get a free goody bag too!
Day tickets and lift passes can be booked on the SnowDome website, by calling 03448 000011 or at SnowDome reception.
3. Midland Game Fair, Weston Park
The Midland Game Fair at Weston Park, South Staffordshire, on September 14th and 15th, is the biggest event for country pursuits in the UK.
With everything from clay pigeon shooting and fishing demonstrations, to falconry displays and gun dog competitions, there's a packed weekend programme for anyone who loves the countryside.
And there are more than 600 stalls to browse too!
Tickets are £18 for adults, £6 for children. Two day tickets are also available.
Why not have a real treat, and go for the Midland Game Fair House Party Package, which includes an overnight stay in the gorgeous stately home, and fine dining in the Granary Grill and Dining Room?
Details on the Weston Park website: http://www.weston-park.com/event/midland-game-fair-house-party-package/
4. Heritage Open Days, venues across Staffordshire
The annual celebration of the nation's heritage, Heritage Open Days provide a rare opportunity to visit historic buildings and special events at some of the county's best heritage attractions.
There are more than 60 events going on across the county, across 10 days from 13th-22nd September.
Highlights include a chance to learn the secrets of the New Vic Theatre, tour Brindley's Mill, and see special displays at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.
Special events include Viking reenactments at Polesworth Abbey, while there is free admission at The Shugborough Estate and Gladstone Pottery Museum.
Details of all Heritage Open Days events in Staffordshire are available at https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/
5. British Ceramics Biennial
The British Ceramics Biennial, a five-week celebration of contemporary ceramics, is back for the sixth time this September.
Running from 7th September to 13th October, the festival embraces Stoke-on-Trent's heritage as the World Capital of Ceramics, with new exhibitions and special events across the city at venues including World of Wedgwood, Middleport Pottery and the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery.
The Spode factory site will host 13 exhibitions, headlined by the prestigious AWARD, which showcases the work of 10 of the UK's most promising ceramicists and carries a prize of £10,000 - the largest single prize for ceramics in the country.
The majority of the events are free to enter, and a free bus will connect the participating venues.
Visit the British Ceramics Biennial website for further information.
Other events and activities in Staffordshire
This is just a snapshot of things to do in September in Staffordshire! Check out our What's On page for more information.
Related
The unique ritual dance is believed to have originated from hunting and fertility rites in the ancient Forest of Needwood, and is performed all day around the picturesque village of Abbots Bromley and surrounding countryside.
Whether it’s a fun packed day on the real snow, sliding and gliding about on the ice or relaxing in the seriously luxurious spa, the SnowDome in Tamworth is the ultimate snow, ice and leisure experience.
Weston Park is one of the most welcoming stately homes with as much character as any English castle and with as many stories as any royal home.
A world famous theatre-in-the-round presenting plays, musicals, concerts, and more. Facilities include a restaurant, bars, and onsite parking.
