Countdown begins for this year's Lancaster Firework Spectacular
Lancaster Castle will be the centrepiece of this year's Fireworks Spectacular
The countdown has begun to this year's Lancaster Firework Spectacular which will see the dazzling display being launched – for the first time ever - from the roof of the historic Lancaster Castle.
The Duchy of Lancaster has given permission for this magnificent building to be the centrepiece of the pyrotechnics, moving the launch from its traditional spot on the nearby Vicarage Fields.
Not only will the castle act as the perfect backdrop for the drama of the display which takes place on Saturday, November 3, but the new location will also increase the height of the firework launch by up to 100 feet, and therefore increase the distance from which they can be seen.
As in previous years, the castle and priory precinct will be closed during the display.
Viewing the display from the Giant Axe and Quay Meadow
Due to the popularity of last year’s event, which attracted record crowds at some of the most popular viewing sites, organisers have introduced a free wristband system for the two official viewing areas closest to the castle at Quay Meadow and Giant Axe.
All the wristbands for these sites have now been issued but don’t worry, there will still be plenty of places to view the fireworks outside the 2 main viewing areas.
If you have registered for wristbands and haven't received them yet, they should be dropping through your letterbox soon. And don't forget - last admission into these main viewing areas is 7.30pm.
BBC Radio Lancashire will be broadcasting live from Quay Meadow from 7pm with a special programme of co-ordinated music on 104.5FM. Visitors are invited to go along and meet Lancaster's very own breakfast show presenter and TV news broadcaster, Graham Liver, as well as other Radio Lancashire personalities. Refreshments and entertainment will also be available at this venue before the fireworks are launched at 8pm.
Other official viewing areas
Although the fireworks will be visible from almost anywhere in the city that can see the castle, there are three additional official viewing areas which do not require passes:
- Salt Ayre, where more than 2,500 people enjoyed the spectacular view across the River Lune last year. Visitors will also be able to enjoy free parking, hot food and drink and Taylor’s Funfair
- Millennium Bridge and the cycle path alongside the River Lune (opposite St George’s Quay)
- Williamson Park
The Fireworks Spectacular is just the culmination of a weekend of activities in Lancaster.
The celebrations will start on Friday November 2 with ‘Light Up Lancaster’, brought to you by arts partners from across the district. The event invites you to stroll through the squares and alleyways at the heart of Lancaster by night and celebrate its heritage through illuminating performances of music, art and dance.
As a warm up for the evening’s event on Saturday, November 3, there will be witches and Guy Fawkes themed activities throughout the day in the city centre, including guided walks and tours, storytelling, arts and crafts and lantern making workshops.
For more information on the viewing areas and a full programme of the weekend’s events, visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/fireworks.
Date Updated: 24/10/12