Historic festival will be a Feast of entertainment

Historic Houghton Feast takes place next monthand this year it's celebrating the magic of the town.

- by Katy Wheeler

With the 'Magic of Houghton' as its theme, this year's festival gets underway on Friday, October 3, and runs through until Sunday, October 12.

The annual 10-day festival, with its rich history dating back to the 12th century, began life as a dedication to the parish church of St Michael & All Angels, which was celebrated as Michaelmas.

More than 800 years on, the festival - with its traditional fairground, ox roasting, carnival parade, community events, exhibitions, talks, tours and fireworks-continues to celebrate local culture and tradition through its vibrant programme of events.

The feast kicks off at 6pm on the Friday with a spectacular community opening ceremony on The Broadway.