The historic colliery site at Woodhorn Museum will be transformed into a magical landscape for Woodhorn’s Weekend of Wonder on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December.
The two days will be filled with music, light and fun for the whole family; including the popular Christmas craft fayre with its fabulous selection of gifts, food and treats from some of the best makers and crafters from across the region.
During each day artist Bethan Maddocks will be welcome families to take part in free art workshops. Glass jars will be turned into kaleidoscopes of colour and images inspired by fire, light, nature and industry. Visitors will then see their own mini works of art incorporated into a beautiful and dazzling sculpture as darkness falls.
The Woodhorn site itself will receive a magical make over as renowned outdoor art performance company, Walk the Plank, transform the grounds into a magical Fire Garden. Accompanied by a unique soundscape, the stunning and inspirational sculptural garden will gradually shimmer and glow as the daylight begins to fade. As dusk falls, flame and foliage combine, trees flicker and crackle and extraordinary flowers belch great plumes of fire as visitors explore the captivating landscape.
Rachel Adam, Director of bait who has co-commissioned the Weekend of Wonder said, “We’re really excited about welcoming families to see the site transformed using fire, light and sound”
“As dusk falls the Fire Garden will illuminate. Visitors will be invited to explore flame lined paths among copper flowers that breathe fire, carefully carved flaming flower boxes and scorching sculptural trees. Musical Director Mariam Rezaei will lead local bands and choirs in live performances through the garden, with the opportunity for visitors to join in!”
Woodhorn’s Director Keith Merrin believes this fantastic weekend will be a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to get into the seasonal spirit.
“With everything that’s going on, including Father Christmas checking out who’s been naughty and nice in his stable grotto, a pop-up photo moon-booth and, for the very first time at Woodhorn, the opportunity to go skating on a huge rink in the historic Pit Yard, the Weekend of Wonder really does have something to thrill all ages.”
The Weekend of Wonder is open 11am – 6pm on both days. Admission is free, with all day parking just £3.50. Arriva will be operating a bus service direct to Woodhorn from Ashington bus station on both days from 1.30pm (last bus returns 6.15pm).
Charges apply for Father Christmas and the WonderIce rink (scientifically engineered surface and structure that lets skaters glide just as smoothly as on real ice).
Skating and Father Christmas will also be available every weekend from 28 November up to Christmas plus Monday 21 – Wednesday 23 December.
After school skating sessions will also be available on Thursdays and Fridays 3.30pm – 5pm between 3 and 18 December.