St George's Day celebrations line-up revealed by Council

The event, taking place on Saturday, April 18 from 11am to 3pm, has been developed in response to resident feedback gathered during the Council’s consultation on the flying of the St George’s flag last year with the Council declaring that “everyone is welcome”.

Event goers can expect a mix of performances throughout the day, with walkabout characters such as Knightly Nonsense and Damsels in Distress, alongside Jellyfish Theatre, Rotherham Town Brass Band, Wath Morris Dancers, Tamil dancers, and Sudanese drummers.

Creative workshops for all ages will also run throughout the day, offering plenty of hands on fun for families.

Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said: “Irrespective of their views on flag flying, residents told us last year that they would welcome an event to mark St George’s Day – England’s national day – and it’s great that the day itself is nearly upon us.

"At a time when it seems that some people want to drive us apart, we’ll be coming together instead and celebrating with a reminder that the St George’s flag represents all of us.

"We’ll be remembering England’s patron saint with some quintessentially English entertainment of course, but also recognising the international significance of the man from what is now modern day Turkey, who died in the area perhaps best known as Judea, venerated by Roman Catholics, and the patron saint of at least nine other countries. All of which helps to contribute to the flavours on offer on the day.

“But most of all we’re inviting all Rotherham residents and families to come along and enjoy themselves, have some food, get some free entertainment, spy some dragons and contribute to the biggest flag in Rotherham. You’ll have to be there to find out more!”

A video trailer for the event featuring local people has also been released.

Alongside the main event, the St George’s Day Community Events Small Grants Scheme – offering awards of up to £2,000 – will help local groups, parish councils and community organisations deliver their own family friendly, inclusive activities.

These community led events are designed to foster pride, connection and participation, ensuring residents can take part in celebrations within their own communities, as well as at Clifton Park.

Community events will include:

A family-friendly St George’s Day at Armorys Holt in Maltby on Saturday, April 25

A Spring Festival event at Holy Trinity Church in Thorpe Hesley on Monday, May 4

A community march to Rosehill Park organised by Rawmarsh High Street Centre on the weekend of April 23

A Community Picnic being organised by Treeton Parish Council

“St George meets William Shakespeare” at Winthrop Gardens in Wickersley on Thursday, April 23

St George and the Dragon themed activities at Swinton Civic Hall on Saturday, 25 April, featuring crafts, stalls and ice cream