The Month Ahead - October 2017

Welcome to October's The Month Ahead. Halloween is the main focus of October these days even though it is just one day and at the end of month! Whether you like a spot of trick or treating or something less scary there's plenty of great autumn activities going on in October. Let's have a look at some of the traditional feasts and festivals, events and exhibitions that are happening around the UK this month.

Through October and Half Term - National Trust Halloween events, across England and Wales. Join in with Pumpkin Trails and craving plus be on the lookout for ghosts at the National Trust's historic properties.

4^th October - Brailsford Ploughing Match, Derbyshire. An great English tradition now in its 112^th year. Also look out for the hedge cutting competition.

8^th October – Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon, York. Too late to enter now but line the route to cheer on the hardy runners attempting to complete the 26.2 mile course in and around the historic city centre.

8^th October – The Great Framlington Sausage Festival, Suffolk. Bangers in all their glorious form from local producers will be on show at this annual homage to sausages.

13^th-21^st October - Wells Festival of Literature – Now in its 25^th year the Wells Festival of Literature plays host to a diverse range of authors, speakers and events plus a chance to showcase local talent.

14^th October-4^th November - Canterbury Festival – Culture hits Kent in a big way with over 200 events showcasing a range of arts including theatre, music, comedy, circus, cabaret and sculpture.

20^th-22^nd October - Dartmouth Food Festival – Choose from a host of top chefs, restaurateurs and food writers to see at the food festival on the Quayside. This year's contributors include Angela Hartnett MBE, Mark Hix, Oliver Rowe and Matt Tebbutt.

20^th-31^st October - Screamland at Dreamland, Margate – Prepare to be frightened throughout the Kent theme park with 6 Scare Mazes. Dare you enter?!

27^th October-9^th November - Dylan Thomas Festival, Swansea – Celebrate the life and works of the Welsh poet and writer with workshops, talks, exhibitions and performances.

28^th October - Nantwich Spooktacular, Cheshire – Dress up for one of the largest Halloween themed firework displays in the country. This year promises to have over 3,000 firework to light up the night sky.

28^th-29^th October - Halloween at Glamis Castle – The setting of Macbeth is now home to The Bewitched Wood and a special spooky trail. Enter if you the childhood home of The Queen Mother for a haunted tour of the castle.

29^th October - Halloween Artisan Market, Ballycastle – A seasonally themed market with local artisan produce and handmade crafts.

All events are subject to change. Please check with the organisers before travelling.

If you are interested about advertising your event on The Month Ahead please contact me at jibberjabberuk@gmail.com.