The Harrogate district is celebrating after successfully hosting a series of fabulous events that brought together businesses, residents and visitors for Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Across the four-day weekend to mark Her Majesty’s 70-year reign on the throne, there were more than 120,000 visitors to Harrogate’s Valley Gardens and the Stray. Where people could enjoy a fantastic variety of family activities and entertainment, as well as the royal events taking place in the capital.
On the Stray – which became Jubilee Square from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 June – Destination Harrogate led celebrations that included streaming the ceremonial elements of the weekend from London on large screens, as well as a stage where local schools and choirs joined presenters from Your Harrogate, live bands and musicians from the local area to host a vibrant entertainment programme.
Supported by Harrogate BID, who brought street entertainers to the town and dressed the streets in miles of bunting, Jubilee Square was alive with music, quizzes, a dog show and family-friendly film screenings. Providing an ideal opportunity for friends and family to gather for picnics and dancing in the park, and encouraging increased footfall to town centre businesses, particularly in the hospitality and food and drink sector.
In Valley Gardens, Harrogate Borough Council’s parks and environmental services team put on a spectacular outdoor event which provided a perfect picnic spot to gather with friends and family.
Jubilee in the Gardens featured a medley of magicians, juggling shows, character meet and greets, fairground rides, face painting, a climbing wall, live music performances and mini discos all free of charge.
Local artisan market maker Little Bird Made showcased a wide range of local produce for three days in the gardens’ recently Grade II listed Colonnade. This structure along with the Sun Pavilion, was one of only six heritage sites in the country to receive listed status as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Councillor Richard Cooper, leader of Harrogate Borough Council, said: “As a destination for visitors both locally and far and wide, we are always keen to help bring different events to the Harrogate district.
“And with Her Majesty The Queen being the first British monarch to celebrate a platinum jubilee, it was only right that we recognise this momentous event in such a way. And what a way it was.
“Harrogate was awash with people and the four-day event in the Stray, Valley Gardens and across the town centre was a fantastic success. People young and old were clearly enjoying the array of free festivities on offer.
“Sadly, the weather was a little mixed, but it didn’t put a dampener on anyone enjoying themselves as we – along with the rest of the country – celebrated Her Majesty’s momentous occasion.
“I hope businesses, residents and visitors across the district remember this historic milestone for many, many years to come.”
Gemma Rio, Head of Destination Harrogate, said: “This weekend proved that with great collaboration comes great success. Together with our partners we were able to host fantastic events that were fitting for this very special and unique royal occasion, which our residents and visitors to our wonderful destination can remember for a lifetime. It was brilliant to see the heart of the Harrogate district buzzing with people and supporting our amazing local businesses while celebrating with family and friends.
“We can feel proud that in showcasing our destination as a perfect place to host quality events enjoyed by all ages, we are drawing on a key strength of the Harrogate district.”
Harrogate BID Manager Matthew Chapman said: “We were really pleased with the numbers coming into Jubilee Square each day, be it to watch the big screen, listen to the live music, take part in the activities or just to meet up with friends and relax with a picnic.
“Together with our partners, Destination Harrogate and Your Harrogate, we gave residents and visitors enjoying the long, celebratory bank holiday, a reason to come into town which looked absolutely magnificent with all the bunting and flags.”
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