The Morpeth Northumbrian Gathering

A heritage festival of traditions unique to the Northeast of England

• What:A three day celebration of ancient local traditions
• When:April 13-15
• Where:Morpeth in Northumberland
• Admission:50p and up, with many free events
• Website

This spring celebration of Northumbrian culture in Morpeth, 14 miles north of Newcastle upon Tyne, has been going on for about 40 years. It includes concerts, parades, food and craft fairs, military re-enactments, storytelling, competitions, music, dance, dialect and theatre. This is a chance to see the very English tradition of Morris dancing as well as the Scottish and borders tradition of sword dancing.

Take part in a "Muckle Day" costume parade or a barn dance. Learn how to make Proggy mats, smallpipes and shepherds sticks. There's all sorts of street entertainment, market stalls, a Viking boat, clog dancing, a singing workshop and a chance to meet the Northumbrian Pipers Society.