The Castletown Festival is 50 years old this year. Sadly, most of the island’s towns have lost their community festivals, but of those that remain Castletown is has one of the best. August 5th is the date.
Amongst the attractions are the crowning of Castletown Queen, Fashion Contests, Bouncy Castles, fun stalls and a Fancy dress parade. Then there is the Grand Confetti Carnival and dance in the square, and it’s all topped off with a firework display. To celebrate the golden anniversary, the Festival has commissioned a Bushy’s special bottled beer. Stocks are limited, so get one or two so you can sell them on eBay on the 100th anniversary.
Another fine celebration is the reinstatement of the Snaefell waterwheel in Laxey.
The Laxey Mines Research Group has installed the 50ft diameter wheel downstream from the famous Lady Isabella wheel. The smaller wheel, built in 1865 will be officially named at the opening ceremony. (See press for details.)
And in the old days how would miners celebrate? With a pint or two of course! And who did the Mines group look to to brew the best? No prizes for guessing.
Photo Credit: Paul Stainthorp
