AN EASTER Boat Gathering at the National Waterways Museum will be a spectacular celebration of narrowboat culture.
More than 100 boats from across the canal network are expected at the four-day event, which runs from April 22-25.
This year the traditional fun and games will be joined by a sea shanty festival and a performance from Mikron Theatre.
Other events at the festival include demonstrations of traditional crafts, lectures, book stalls, lock demonstrations, battle of the tugs, boaters’ games and a tour of the museum’s heritage boatyard.
Shanty singers will be performing around the site during the day and will also be holding concerts in the evenings.
The Easter Boat Gathering is the biggest weekend in the museum’s calendar.
Museum marketing manager Oliver Briscoe said: “We’re excited by the plans for the Easter Boat Gathering this year and there is still time to get involved by bringing your narrowboat to the party!
“It’s a great chance to showcase the heritage and tradition of the canals to the general public in a great setting.”
Visitors will be able to take part in some of the family-friendly activities on offer.
They can try their luck at the treasure hunt and craft making workshops where they have a go at rope making, crochet, bonnet making and much more.
And for visitors who don’t feel like joining in there is plenty to see, with traditional morris dancers, sea shanty singers and live demonstrations and competitions.
Hungry visitors will appreciate the hog roast and two bars will be open with a selection of real ales.
For details visit www.nwm.org.uk or www.boatmuseumsociety.org.uk
