‘KINGS and Queens’ will be the theme for the Malvern Well Dressing Festival when it returns.
The popular event starts with the dressing of the 50 wells on April 28 and judging a day later and runs until May 7.
Rosettes and certicficates will be awarded during a prize-giving on bank holiday Monday – May 1 – in Priory Park where a family fun day also takes place.
The theme connects with The Coronation of His Majesty The King on May 6 but for anyone taking part in the dressing of wells, it can also link with mythical or fictional kings and queens.
The annual event celebrates the history of Malvern Hills District, from its iconic spring water and Victorian Water Cure to the area’s ancient Pagan traditions.
It is brought to the town by the Malvern Spa Association with local businesses and community groups taking part.
Around 200 adults and over 500 school children will all be involved in dressing the wells across Malvern.
Visitors can view the wonderful creations by setting off across the hills on foot, by bike or on a self-drive tour.
Maps can be downloaded from the Malvern Well Dressing Facebook page or picked up from Malvern Tourist Information Centre.
Entertainment taking place includes singing, well blessings, minibus tours and more.
Coun Daniel Walton, Malvern Hills District Council’s portfolio holder for tourism and economic development, said: “We are really looking forward to the return of this popular festival, it is always such a great opportunity for residents, schools and community groups to come together and take part in dressing the wells and springs.”
Rick Banbury, the well dressing organiser, said: “What a marvellous theme, kings and queens is – so fitting for the build-up to the coronation.
“While for those who are less engaged, there’s a mass of possibilities including nursery rhymes, fairytales, rock stars, drag artists.
“This theme has it, to excite dressers to make wonderful creations come May Day.”
Visit Malvern Well Dressing on Facebook or www.malvernspa.org for more information.
