Blockbuster free event to mark 150th anniversary of Walsall Arboretum

Thursday, 21 March 2024 18:03

A live music and celebration event to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Walsall Arboretum will take place this May, and it is completely free.

The event will take place on Saturday 4 May 2024, between 12 noon and 7pm, exactly 150 years since the grand opening of the Arboretum back in 1874.

An array of activities will be on offer on the day, with something for everyone, ranging from the much-loved miniature railway returning for the day to talks and showcases from the various groups which make use of the Arboretum.

There will also be children's rides, food stalls and bars, traditional games and boat rides on the lake (payment needed).

The world’s first all-female Slade tribute band, Slady, will headline the celebrations alongside a host of talented, mainly local, musicians. Slady are the perfect choice for the festivities, paying homage to Walsall native, lead singer and guitarist of Slade, Noddy Holder.

Councillor Chris Towe, Mayor of Walsall, said,

“This event gives us all the opportunity to come together and celebrate one of Walsall’s most loved and cherished attractions. For 150 years Walsall Arboretum has been a place for exercise, play, relaxation, community activities, as well as providing a home for wildlife and nature to flourish.

“We are very excited about the music and activities that will be on offer, and proud to put on the event at no cost to attendees. I encourage everyone and anyone to join us on the day to celebrate one of the finest public parks in the Midlands.”

The day will feature both a main stage and an acoustic stage, hosted by well-known local DJ Dicky Dodd, all to be enjoyed for free.

Main Stage acts:

• Slady

• Midnight Crossing

• Inareko

• Noise Candy

• Voices Entwined Choir

• The West Midlands Concert Band

• The City of Birmingham Brass Band

Acoustic Stage acts:

• Aayushi Jain

• Jessai Dessai

• Gavin Medza

• The Clarkes & Co

• Christopher Crompton

• Plus many more!

Activity highlights:

• Miniature Railway

• Children’s Rides

• Food Stalls and Bars

• Traditional Games and Activities

• Find out about our Arboretum Groups

• Guided History Walk

• Boating on the lake (payment needed)

• Glorishears of Brummagem Morris Dancers

• Walkabout entertainment

• Wildlife Management Forum with our Park Staff

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