Stratford-upon-Avon Celebrates Shakespeare's Birthday

Visit the church where Shakespeare was christened more than 400 years ago

• What: Stratford upon Avon celebrates its favorite son
• When: April 23 - April 26, 2008, most events on the weekend
• Where: Various venues and the streets of Stratford upon Avon
• Admission: Mostly free
• Website

Shakespeare's birthday party, in his home town, includes street theatre, Shakespeare Morris Men, Children's Country Dancing, marching bands, drummers. There will be Ghost Walks, Stratford Town Walks, music recitals and a chance to see Stratford's Lord Mayor and other worthies in their full regalia.

A highlight will be a procession, with unfurling of banners and laying of floral tributes at Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was christened in April 1564, 444 years ago.

In 1896 the American Ambassador attended and since then, this is one of the few formal engagements for the Diplomatic Corps outside of London.

And, if you get to Stratford a day early, you might catch one of the Royal Shakespeare Company stars unveiling a new statue by Greg Wyatt, based on The Winter's Tale, in the Great Garden at Nash House, New Place (Shakespeare's retirement home).

See the full 2009 Shakespeare's Birthday program