FROM choristers in their cassocks racing round on BMX bikes to the Dean of Peterborough being held in a mock cell at the back of the Cathedral, you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd seen it all at Peterborough Cathedral, but now along comes Peterfest 2009.
Bringing 3,000 years of history to life before your very eyes, the cathedral has joined with the
Peterborough Festival to present the
Peterborough Heritage Festival and
Peterfest Cathedral Open Day tomorrow (Saturday, 27 June) and Sunday.
Bigger and better than ever this year, the festival team and cathedral staff offer a weekend of fun, unusual and interactive activity suitable for all the family set to attract visitors from far and wide.
There will be a period market out in the grounds from 10am to 5pm, incorporating Living History re-enactments from costumed Viking knights, archery and falconry displays, traditional mead and a hog roast to enjoy.
Activity inside the cathedral is more focused on celebrating the cathedral's patronal festival ahead of St Peter's Day yet has something to offer everyone.
From 10am onwards on Saturday, step into the cathedral nave and see for yourself the most fascinating and inspiring people from the cathedral's past come to life. Costumed cathedral guides stationed at various points around the floor will take on the characters of the likes of Katharine of Aragon, Edith Cavell, St Peter himself and Robert Scarlett – the old gravedigger – at key burial places, tombs, memorial plaques and tributes as part of the Peterfest Dead Interesting Cathedral Tour.
Alternatively, why not take a trip with St Peter around the interactive Peter's Journey exhibition to browse displays all about Peter's journey through life? Take some time out to discover the trials and tribulations of this inspiring patron saint, as well as reading quotes from both local and global celebrities about what God means to them, including the Dean of Peterborough and Lord of the Rings actor, Elijah Wood.
For children, there will be a Kids' Corner set up in the North Transept, where families can take part in hands-on craft and faith-based activities to discover a little of the history and teachings of this great cathedral church.
There are no set times for activity inside the cathedral as Katharine of Aragon and friends will be at their stations all day from 11am until 3pm.
Activities and admission are free of charge although donations to the continuing operation may be invited and refreshments will be available from the Becket Chapel at additional cost.
At 3.30pm, there will be a closing act of worship celebrating Petertide and there will be more activity on offer on Sunday.
The Heritage Festival market and period crafts out in the grounds remain on the Sunday, from noon to 3pm, and the preacher at a special choral evensong at 3.30pm will be Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Finally, on St.Peter's Day itself (Monday), a festival service will be held at 5.30pm which will also include thanksgiving for the life of the very Rev Bishop Ian Cundy.
All are welcome to attend these events and services. There is no charge for admission or activities, but a donation to the continuing operation of the cathedral may be invited.
For more information, call the cathedral office on 01733 355315, or for more about the Heritage Festival, call Stuart Orme at Peterborough Museum on 01733 864663.
