Families invited to festive opening of Peterborough's Flag Fen

The event will take place later this month

Children will see Flag Fen transformed into a unique festive landscape with socially distanced outdoor opportunities for seasonal fun that will include an illuminated Christmas

trail, storytelling, yule tree decorating and a gift from Father Christmas who will be making a special appearance in the Round House during the event on Monday, December 21.

The archaeologist who discovered Flag Fen in 1982, Francis Pryor, will be lighting up the night sky with a bonfire at twilight, which will be followed by a carol singing performance by

Peterborough Sings.

Francis said: “Our ancestors once celebrated the winter solstice - the shortest day of the year - and it’s fitting that we can also have this celebration on the same day.

“Marking the passage of time was important to prehistoric people and they were in tune with the changing of the seasons. As the days grew shorter and colder, they too longed for the

return of the light and warmth, which is symbolised by our lighting of a bonfire.”

Councillor Steve Allen, cabinet member for culture and recreation at Peterborough City Council, said: “The team at City Culture Peterborough has worked hard to safely prepare

Flag Fen for its reopening. The same attention to detail has been given to ensure the festive event will be managed in a Covid-19 safe environment with all necessary public health

procedures put in place.

“We recognise how important it is for our wellbeing to be able to enjoy outside open spaces and it is a welcome boost that we can celebrate and feel safe at the same time.”

Light, hot and cold refreshments will be available and can be ordered in advance on entry. It is a ticket only event and £10 per family. Spaces are limited to ensure safety.

The event will run from 2pm until 6pm. To book, please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yule-bonfire-festive-event-tickets-131057068219Visitors to the event should wear a face covering unless medically exempt and are encouraged to wrap up warm and remember to socially distance.

Please note that dogs will not be allowed to this event (except guide dogs).

Flag Fen will be free to enter until the end of January and due to Covid-19 restrictions the indoor collection hall will remain closed.

For more information, please email [email protected] or telephone: 01733 864663.