What's On at the Family Festival this Year

quoteThe Family Festival is a volunteer-run, self-funded event, created to provide free and low-cost entertainment for the Fen Edge village communities. Please help the festival with a donation or pledge some time to assist with an activity.quote

Look out for our postcard promotion, designed by Brian Whitehead

The Festival Logo

 

 

 

Helen O'Grady Drama Workshops
Drama Workshops for the Kids
space

Teen Disco
Teen Disco
space

Kite Making
Kite Making on the Green
space

Family Stalls
Lots of Family Stalls this Year
space

Pre-school Fun
Pre-school Fun is always popular
space

Bingo in the Main Marquee
Full House at the Bingo
space
Family Disco is a great hit!
Family Disco in the Marquee
space

Mind The Gap Band on Friday Night
PTA Dance feat. Mind the Gap Band
space

Scalextric 100ft Track
Scalextric 4 lane racing!
space

Beat the Goalie
Come on and Beat the Goalie
space

Bouncy Castles for the Kids
Bouncy Castle on the Green
space

Climbing Wall is always popular
Challenge yourself on the Wall
space

Coconut Shy is a festival favourite
Coconut Shy - a Festival favourite
space
Face Painting
Face Painting for all
space

Farm Macinery on display
Farm machinery on show
space
Laser Shot hits the target!
Hit the targets with Laser Shot
space

Pre-School Play Zone – on the Green
Fun in the Pre-school Play Zone
space

The Archaeological Dig – various locations
The Archaeological Dig
space

WI Refreshments Tent
WI Ladies - Tea and Muffins galore!
space

Fencing at the Rear of CVC Sports Centre
Fencing at the Rear of CVC
space

Speedminton
Speedminton at rear of CVC
space

Laser Tag
Laser Tag - shoot em up!
space
Fire and Rescue with the Fire Brigade
The Fire Brigade will hopefully make it!
space

Junior Band Competition
Band Competition always draws a crowd
The Junior Band Competition Rocks!
space

Cottenham Roller Hockey display
Roller Hockey Display
space

Target Tennis with Cottenham with the Club
Target Tennis with the Club
space

Galaxy Big Band on Saturday night!
Galaxy Big Band on Saturday Night
space

Red Arrows on Saturday
Red Arrows now changed to Saturday
space

Petwise Zoo
Veiled Chameleon
The Petwise Zoo are coming...

space

Rc Hovercraft at the Pool
RC Hovercraft at the Pool
space

Sumo Wrestling - Not Flattering but Fun!
Sumo Wrestling. Not Flattering but Fun!
space

Climb the Tower and Bell Ringing – All Saints’ Church
Climb the All Saints Tower

space

Gathering on the Green
Unique atmosphere to Green gathering
space

Barrow of Beer a popular Raffle
Barrow of Beer is always popular!
space
Open Gardens along the High Street
Open Gardens in Cottenham are always worth a visit.
space

Tae Kwon-Do Display

Tae Kwon-Do Display on the Green
space

World Musik Makers
Batanai African Music
space

Children of the Gospel Choir
Children of the Kingdom Choir
space

Stone Circles in the Culture Tent
Stone Circles in the Culture Tent.
Not this big though!
space

Wool Spinning by Dave Bradley
Wool Spinners in the Culture Tent
space

Cambridgeshire Parish Chest
The Parish Chest
space

Archaeological Dig
Archaeological Dig turns up treasure
space

Cottenham Village Design Group
CVDG Village Design Competition
space

Walking Tours of Historical Houses
Historic Tours of Cottenham



What's on for 2009!

FEN EDGE FAMILY FESTIVAL ON COTTENHAM GREEN :: 18 -21 June 2009

In addition see What's On for the Kids and the Festival Competitions you can enter.

You can download a copy of the EVENTS GUIDE in either Mono versionMONO or glorious Colour versionTECHNI-COLOUR

Last Minute Additions/Warnings

RED ARROWS ON SATURDAY AT 14:45:24 PRECISELY!

It is vital that no cars are left between the garages and common room at CVC (opposite side of the pond to the BUPA hospital) as there will be the Cycle Experience there on Saturday  or on the road to be closed etc. because of stalls being set up early on Saturday.

CVC's GCSE art exhibits open to view on Saturday 10-3 in the Art Department at CVC - come to see the outstanding and inspirational art work produced by the GCSE students.

Archery behind the CVC Sports Centre - £1 a go 3 arrows or £2 for 9 arrows.

Quad Bikes & Human Gyro...

Another last minute edition to the festival events are the inclusion of some cool quad bikes for the kids plus a human gyroscope. These will be situated on the field at the back of the CVC Sports Centre.

Cycle Experience Roadshow is coming...

We are delighted to announce that the Cycle Experience Roadshow is coming to the Festival with 40 bikes, carts etc. on Saturday 20.
This is an opportunity for all the family to come along, have some fun and try out a range of bikes; Learner, children's, adult, folding, tandems, recumbents and electric bikes, trailers, trailer bikes, child seats and child back tandems.
In addition you can get advice and guidance on:

  • What is the right bike for you?
  • Cycle maintenance
  • Route planning
  • Cycling safely

Open Gardens - Disability ACCESS - Sunday 21 June from 1 - 6pm

KEY:

* - Access for a wheel chair and walking with a stick
+ - Wheelchair access ok, but some gravel, small step okay with stick
++ - Ok for walking, too narrow paths for wheelchairs
x - not suitable for wheelchair access

  • * Mr Hewitt - 01 - 27 High Street
  • + Mr Wareham - 02 - 30 High Street
  • x Mr Tompkins - 03 - 135 High Street
  • ? Mr Bolitho - 04 - 185 High Street
  • * Mr & Mrs Marr - 05 - 3 Curringtons Close
  • * Mrs Bamford - 06 - 33 Victory Way
  • + Mr Ward - 07 - 6 Pelham Close
  • * Mr Croxton - 08 - 19 Pelham Close
  • * Ms Pawlak - 09 - 103 Rampton Road
  • * Mr & Mrs Knott - 10 - 105 Rampton Road
  • * Mr & Mrs Defries - 11 - 33 Histon Road
  • * Mr Pike - 12 - 123 Histon Road
  • * Mr & Mrs Wedgebury - 13 - 40 Denmark Road
  • * Ms Read - 14 - 56 Denmark Road

The Open Gardens Transport Timetable is now online for you to check.

We have the following events finalised for the 2009 MONSTERS Event. Please note that last minute changes are marked in RED.

THURSDAY only Events

Drama Workshops – Cottenham Community Centre (Old Methodist Church)

5.00 – 6.00 : Workshop 1 – age 5 – 7 years
6.15 – 7.15 : Workshop 2 – age 8 – 11 years

Try out stage school drama from the internationally recognised Helen O’Grady Academy drama programme. A ‘have fun’ workshop experience brought to Cottenham for primary school-aged children. Workshops will include speech, movement and creative improvised drama. Limited spaces are available.
To pre-book call Fiona Taylor on 01223 208731. Workshops are free of charge in association with Fen Edge Family Festival.

Teen Disco – Main Marquee

7.30 – 9.00 : age 11 – 13 years
9.15 – 10.45 : age 14 – 16 years

Get together with friends in the Main Marquee. There will be two discos for different age groups. Of course no alcohol or drugs. there will be soft drinks etc on sale.

Entrance is £2.

FRIDAY only Events

Kite Making – on the Green

9.20 – 2.20 : pre-booked sessions
School-only workshops in kite making with hands-on activities by STEM team Cambs – a Science and Engineering group.

Family Friendly Stalls

11.00 – 4.00
Don’t miss the small range of family friendly stalls on the Village Green.

Tribal Mask Making – African Tambourines – Stone Painting – Cottenham Community Centre

9.30 – 11.00; 3.00 – 5.00
Three different activities are offered each day, with refreshments available:
Tribal Masks: Create a tribal mask by cutting out a mask shape and choosing a design to add to it, including eyes, mouths and noses. Then select the colours and other decorations to finish it off.
African Tambourines: Create a tambourine by decorating the bottoms of paper plates with African designs. Colour them in or add a design and finish it off with ribbons and jingles. Then step back and play your tambourine!
Stone Painting: Work with a variety of shapes by adding colours to them and create beautiful nick-nacks.
Free of charge. Parents must remain with children.

Pre-school Fun – Cottenham Toy Library – on the Green and Main Marquee

11.00 – 3.00
11.30 – Tatty Bumpkin Kids Yoga; 12.30 – Story telling; 1.30 – Mr Marvel

An action packed day of pre-school fun for under 5’s. The activities will include two bouncy castles, outdoor activity, ride-on toys, face-painting and a visit by a JCB and a tractor! Refreshments on sale include tea, coffee, flapjacks, cookies and muffins.
Entrance is £2.50 per child, £5 for two or more children, under 1’s free. Face painting for all ages for £1. Bring a picnic and join in the fun.

Bingo – Main Marquee

3.30 – 5.00
Prize Bingo! All welcome (over 18).
£2 for a book of 10 games.

Family Disco – Cottenham Youth Group – Main Marquee

5.00 – 6.30
Music and dancing for all the family. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Refreshments on sale.
Ages 0 – 9 years.
£3 per family of 4; 50p for each additional child. Pay on the door.

Mind The Gap Band – PTA Dance – Main Marquee
Please Remember to Walk and leave your cars at home as the Road will be Closed adjacent to the Green.

8.00 – 11.30
Friday night’s the night when the village rocks! Amazing live music from MIND THE GAP a repertoire that spans the 60s to the present day. This is what others have to say: “…they were quite amazing”, “absolutely brilliant…”, “from Purple Haze to the Scissor Sisters… it really was an evening to remember.”
Listen at www.mindthegapband.co.uk
Tickets cost £10.00, and will be available in advance from Cottenham Primary School and CVC . Over 18s only. There will be a bar selling wine, beer and soft drinks. Food not included but there will be a fish and chip van available for food purchases!


SATURDAY & SUNDAY Events

Enjoy a great day – all day – at the Festival. There’s plenty of car parking off Histon Road – on the left as you enter Cottenham from Histon (see the map on pages 6 – 7). There’s also an array of hot food (barbeque, jacket potatoes, pizza, pancakes etc) and drink stalls to keep you fed and watered during the impressive line up of events – there really is no need to go anywhere else all weekend! On Sunday, free transport is available between Histon Road Car Park, the Green, Open Gardens and All Saints’ Church – from 1.00 – 6.00.
In case of rain.....
To prevent weather dampening the evening festivities on Saturday or Sunday, bring along your own gazebo (without side coverings) to pitch up in front of the main marquee or arrive early for a space in the marquee.

3 Minute Wonder – all locations Throughout the weekend

Create and edit your own unique three-minute film diary of the Festival and have it displayed on the Fen Edge Family Festival website.

Hunt the Monster Competition – Tea Tent – Main Marquee

10.00 – 4.00
Hunt down pictures of 20 monsters lurking around the Green. Entry forms available from the tea tent inside the main marquee. A prize will be given each day around 4.00pm. Under 16’s.
Entrance is 20p.

100ft Scalextric Race Track – CVC Main Hall

10.00 – 5.00
Lewis Hamilton eat your heart out! Fun for all ages, the biggest slot car race track you are likely to see, four lanes of adrenaline pumping bends and straights. Light count down off the grid with lap times displayed.
£1 a go for a warm-up plus a three-lap race

Bart Golf – Front of College

10.00 – 5.00
Each day we are giving away a voucher for four rounds of golf at Cambridge Lakes Golf course. Chip the balls into the Simpson’s family mouths and the highest score for the day wins. (if scores are tied the winning name will be drawn from a hat).

Beat the Goalie – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

10.00 – 5.00
Take the challenge – how many shots can you put past the goalie? All ages welcome.
50p a go with prizes throughout the day.

Bouncy Castles – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
Come and bounce on one of two bouncy castles. One under-5s; the other for 5 – 10 years. Entrance is £1 per child.

Climbing Wall – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
A 24ft high climbing wall that is both a challenge and an exhilarating experience for all. Learn the skills of rock climbing in a safe environment. Full instruction and support given. Open to adults and children. £4 per go.

Coconut Shy – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
Try your luck at winning a coconut on a traditional coconut shy. £1 a go.

Cricket “Bowl the Stumps” – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

10.00 – 5.00
Test your bowling skills with “Bowl the Stumps” 50p a go with prizes throughout the day.

Drive a Car – Tops Driving School – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

10.00 – 5.00
A unique opportunity for ages 13 to 16, to get behind the wheel and drive a car. You will be given a brief introduction to the controls then support as you take control and drive. £1 a go for approximately 10 minutes drive.

Face-Painting – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
Face-painting for all ages. Charge £1.

Farm Machinery Display – The Ploughing Society - Front of College

10.00 – 5.00
A display of vintage and modern farm machinery.

Festival Marmalade & Jam – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
Especially made for the Festival, a delicious selection of flavours locally produced.

Laser Shot – CVC Main Hall

10.00 – 5.00
Laser Shot is an interactive shooting game suitable for all ages and abilities. Targets of various types are projected onto a large screen and by using their skill and judgement competitors shoot at clay pigeons, ducks flying through the air, quails taking off from the woods and many more scenarios such as target range, marksmanship trainers and a variety of fun games which test accuracy and reaction times and are both educational, stimulating and very competitive. £1.50 per go.

Local Produce and Fete Stalls – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
A variety of local produce, crafts, art, home & garden, unique Festival goods, fete games and food stalls to suit everyone. Buy unique gifts for yourself and your family, for that special birthday or celebration. Hot food (barbeque, jacket potatoes, pizza, pancakes etc) and drink stalls should keep you from feeling hungry or thirsty throughout our impressive line up of events – there really is no need to go anywhere else all weekend! Each day we have a number of different stalls for you to browse.

Pre-School Play Zone – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
More outdoor fun for the under-5s. The Play Zone will include a run around outdoor activity area with ride-on toys and games. Entrance is £1 per child.

The Archaeological Dig – various locations

10.00 – 5.00

On Saturday between 2pm and 4pm come to the Fen Edge Archaeology Group area in the Culture Tent with items you have dug up in your garden and see if our visiting professional archaeologist, Richard Mortimer from ‘Oxford Archaeology East’, can help you identify what they are and how old they might be.

Throughout Saturday and Sunday members of the Fen Edge Archaeology Group, set up just last November by and for those interested in archaeology in the Fen Edge villages, will be excavating a test pit on the Cottenham village green – and then filling it in again! Come along and find out what they are doing, why they are doing it and how.

On both days of the Festival there will be, in the Culture Tent, displays of items found in recent exploratory excavations in our villages and some buried finds for children to discover and to guess at what, and how old, they might be. Come and see what has been lost and found over the centuries!

WI Refreshments Tent – Main Marquee

10.00 – 5.00
You'll be spoilt for choice with a selection of homemade Muffins – Chocolate, Coffee and Walnut, Cherry and Fruit or Orange and Sultana. Coffee / tea and a muffin or squash and a muffin £1.50.

Fencing – CVC Sports Centre

10.30 – 5.00 1.00 – 3.00 Saturday* : Rear of CVC Sports Centre 12.00 – 2.00 Sunday* : Rear of CVC Sports Centre A safe child-friendly introduction to fencing, where children will learn basic techniques and strategy. £2 per go. (* Weather permitting)


SATURDAY only Events

Tatty Bumpkin – Yoga for age 2 – 5 years – CVC Sports Centre Studio

1.00 – 1.30; 2.00 – 2.30; 3.00 – 3.30
20 minute sessions are for all children aged 2 to 5 years old (parents able to participate or watch). Each session involves simple yoga movements, storytelling, props and music too. They are centred around Tatty Bumpkin, a fair trade doll who is “bendy, giggly, clever and strong…!” Winners of the “Best National Physical Activity Award” – Organix 2008.
£1 per child. To book classes in advance call Sue Orpin Tel. 01954 250238.

Making Cards for Father’s Day – Mini Monsters – Create a Pyramid – Cottenham Community Centre

9.30 – 11.00; 3.00 – 5.00
There will be three different activities offered each day with refreshments available:
Create a Pyramid: Sticks, paper and colouring materials to design a pyramid.
Making Cards for Father’s Day: Use paper and different art materials to make Father’s Day cards.
Mini Monsters: Tons of different kinds of material to create small but wild monsters. Possibility of using small vegetables to add bodies and faces to and a possibility of having fun with cardboard puppets!
Free of charge. Parents must remain with children.

Razzmatazz Robots Holiday Club – Cottenham Baptist Church, Salvation Army and All Saints’ Church – Main Marquee

10.00 – 12.00
Are your children age 5 – 11 years? Do they have friends the same age? As part of the Fen Edge Family Festival, the Churches in Cottenham will be running an event just for them, including songs, quizzes, games, and Bible stories. You can drop your children off to have fun for a couple of hours, while you relax and wander around the festival.
£1.50 per child. Normally run as a five day club in the summer holidays, don’t miss out on this one off event.
Click here for booking forms or more information call 01954 252378 (Numbers are limited so book early)

Bowl for a Prize – on the Green

10.00 – 5.00
Think Green bowls could be easy! Then why not try you luck at bowling into the target circles and a chance to win a prize.

Speedminton® – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

10.00 – 5.00
Speedminton® takes racquet sports to a new level, no matter where you are: indoors, in parks, on the beach... no net required – just pure adrenaline! The speeders fly straight and true, even in light winds. Day or night, come along and try freestyle or have a thrilling match.
No charge.

Laser Tag – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

10.00 – 5.00
Whether you are looking for the ultimate in family fun, or are looking for a great activity with friends, this is for you. Armed with the very latest body packs and your own light laser guns, your mission is to enter the Laser Station and track down the enemy. Scores displayed to show your success in defeating the enemy. Only your best is good enough!!! Book on the day.
£3 a turn or £5 for two turns – 12 players per game.

Fire and Rescue with the Fire Brigade – Front of College

11.00 – 5.00
Come and watch the Fire Brigade demonstrate their road accident procedures and rescue techniques as they dismantle a car in front of you!
No charge but donations to Fire Service Benevolent Fund gratefully received.

Junior Band Competition – Main Marquee

12.30 – 4.00
Local talent showing The X Factor how it’s done. Come and listen and choose your favourite in the Battle of the Bands. If you’re in a band, a duet or solo, are up to Year 13 and perform any type of music then get your details across to John Bateson (johnfbateson@gmail.com). Two age categories: 12 – 15 years and 16 – 18 years. See Competitions for more info. Check out the latest Band Lineup here.

Roller Hockey Display – CVC Sports Centre

1.00 – 2.00 : Under 12s
2.00 – 3.00 : Over 12s

Get to see an impressive display of speed and skill and join in – two sessions. Accompanied by a short display and a ‘have a go’ – each lasting half an hour. Skate hire 50p.

Festival Superstars – on the Green

1.00 – 4.00
Whether you’re 5 or 95 why not take part in this inaugural Festival Superstars event! Minimum of three events to test your skill, strength and sanity! Including the slow bike race and carrot flinging! You don’t have to take part in all the events but trophies will be awarded to the overall winners in primary school, secondary school and adult male and adult female categories.
To pre-register or for more information contact Steve Whyatt 01223, 237874 day or 01954 252045 home, or turn up 12.45pm Saturday! The event is free and you can even take home your carrot!

Target Tennis – Cottenham Tennis Club – Rear of CVC Sports Centre

2.00 – 5.00
Play against the ball machine to hit various soft toy targets or land in the hoop. Prizes for the most targets hit from 20 balls. One court for little kids: with a mini net and lots of targets – hit balls over the net with prizes to be won. How good are you? Try “Beat the Coach” on one court: play 3 points against PK or other team players – win 2 out of 3 points to win a prize. 50p a go.

Break Dancing Display – Break the Mould – Main Marquee

4.30 – 5.00
Break the Mould – a Cottenham-based crew of Boys and Girls aged 7 – 14 years give a ‘battle-style’ performance of their break-dancing skills.

SCAMBS & Friends Dance – Main Marquee

5.15 – 6.15
A mixture of modern dance performances from SCAMBS and Friends.

Kids Monster Fancy Dress – Main Marquee
Sponsored by The Corner Shop

7.00
A chance for kids of all ages (including adults) to have some fun. Simply turn up in your Monster costume and there will be prizes awarded for the best fancy dress (kids only). Judging is 8.45 to 9.00 on stage main marquee.

The Galaxy Big Band and The B1049’s – Main Marquee Sponsored by Cottenham Parish Council

7.00 – 7.30 : B1049’s
7.45 – 11.30 : Galaxy Big Band
Be ready for the WOW factor! The band comprises a 20-piece line-up of vocals, saxophones, brass and rhythm. Treading in the footsteps of the great big bands of the 1940s, the Galaxy Big Band has established an enviable reputation for swing music, jive and jazz. Don’t miss the B1049’s as they kick off the whole evening. Free of charge but donations towards the Festival overheads will be required to ensure these types of events remain open to everyone. Listen at www.galaxybigband.co.uk


SUNDAY only Events

The Red Arrows Fly Past   2.24pm Saturday
from West to East (coming from Rampton direction)

Times to be announced Remember to keep an eye on the time and look up for the smoke-trailed fly-past.

African Animal Painting – Making Cards for Father’s Day – Design a Mask – Cottenham Community Centre

9.30 –11.00; 3.00 – 5.00
There will be three different activities offered each day with refreshments available:
Design a Mask: Different mask designs to make – possibly using hold-on sticks.
Making Cards for Father’s Day: Paper and different art materials to make Father’s Day Cards.
African Animal painting: Cut out shapes of different types of animals to then use these to create large pictures or cards. Paint, colour or glue the animals and their surroundings with the materials provided. Free of charge. Parents must remain with children.

Petting Zoo – Front of College

10.00 – 5.00
Mobile Zoo with up to 100 animals. In the Safari Tent, there are creepy crawlies (cockroaches, tarantulas, millipedes, scorpions, etc), reptiles, small exotics mammals (spiny mice, acacia rats, harvest mice, etc) and parrots. Animals are displayed in their own tanks and cages around the edge of the marquee. This is a large, hands-on, fun display. There are games for children and families and even something for the adults! Outside the Safari Tent are the Animal Pens with poultry, rabbit and guinea pig run, gopher pen, chinchilla and tortoise pen, ferret pen, tegu pen (4ft monitor lizard), duckling pen and new this year, ‘Meerkat Mountain’ and ‘Parrot Paradise’. Each enclosure contains an animal information sign, showing where the animal originates from, natural habitat, diet, lifespan, etc. Throughout the day, our fully-trained zoo staff will allow you to hold and take photos of various animals. There is always something different to hold and pet throughout the day. Whether it’s an 8ft snake, or a fluffy rabbit, we guarantee a fantastic, memorable experience! Listen out for the animal show, games and various talks throughout the day. No charge.

Trampolining – CVC Gym (outside weather permitting)

10.00 – 12.00
Come along and learn a few basic trampolining moves with instruction and see members of the Cangaroos Trampoline Club in action. 50p a go – for adults and children.

“Hose the House” with the Fire Brigade – Front of College

10.00 – 3.00
Be a real fireman and put out the fire in a burning house with a real fire hose. (House not really on fire!!) No charge but donations to Fire Service Benevolent Fund gratefully received.

Penned Animals – The Ploughing Society – Front of College

10.00 – 1.00
Come and pet a selection of farm animals – calves, lambs, a bullock and see a selection of penned poultry.
Important: hand-washing facilities will be provided and must be used after touching the animals.

MONSTER Sculptures on Display – Main Marquee (on the Green weather permitting)

10.00 – 5.00
The sculpture competition is one of the Festival’s major attractions. In 2007 the Bugs Sculpture Competition captured the imagination with over 100 amazing entries made from flowers, bread, fabric, wood and metal. We are pleased to announce that this years theme is “MONSTERS”. It is open to everyone – the more the merrier. Categories are: 5 years and under, 6 – 8 years, 9 – 11 years,12 – 16 years, Family, Adult and Business. Bring your Monster to be entered and displayed by 10.30am with judging taking place early afternoon. Rosettes and prizes will be awarded.
Entry is free.

African Workshops – Main Marquee Sponsored by Cottenham Parish Council

10.30 – 11.15; 12.00 – 12.45; 2.30 – 3.15
A rare opportunity to take part in World Muzik Makers’ African Diembe drumming workshops – a celebration of ancient Traditional Africa and modern Contemporary African music. From primary age upwards, all are welcome. Workshops limited to 30. Free of charge.

Tatty Bumpkin – Yoga for age 2 – 5 years – CVC Sports Centre Studio

11.00 – 11.30; 1.00 – 1.30; 3.00 – 3.30
20 minute sessions are for all children aged 2 to 5 years old (parents able to participate or watch). Each session involves simple yoga movements, storytelling, props and music too. They are centred around Tatty Bumpkin, a fair trade doll who is “bendy, giggly, clever and strong…!” Winners of the “Best National Physical Activity Award” – Organix 2008 £1 per child. To book classes in advance call Sue Orpin Tel. 01954 250238.

Remote Control Hovercraft – CVC Swimming Pool

12.00 – 1.15
Take control of a remote control hovercraft with space to speed along the length of the swimming pool. 50p a go.

Roller Skating – CVC Sports Centre

12.00 – 4.00
Fun skate for all, any age can come and have a go – bring your own skates or skates available to borrow. 50p a go.

Animal Blessing – on the Green

12.20 – 12.50
Bring your pet to be blessed by Rev. Kylie Hodgins.

Fen Edge Orchestra – Main Marquee

1.00 – 1.30
A selection of relaxing music from Fen Edge Orchestra.

Table Tennis Tournament – CVC Gym

1.00 – 3.00
Are you (or were you ever) a table tennis fiend? If so, individuals can enter the Table Tennis Tournament where there will be three draws: 13 years and under, 13 – 18 years, and adults. Play the best of three games with first to 11. £2 entry. Please call David Lee on 01954 203828 or email david.lee@niab.com

Sumo Wrestling – on the Green

1.00 – 4.00
SUMO… comes to the Family Festival! The Sumo tradition is very ancient and Sumo wrestling one of the oldest martial arts in Japan… This is nothing like that! Put on an unflattering pink suit and have a laugh as you try and grapple your opponent to the ground whilst others take a photo! Lots of fun guaranteed. Sumo suits for children and adults are available although there will be some natural restrictions on weight and height. There will be a small charge for this activity.

Parachute Games – on the Green

1.00 – 4.00
Fun for all the family. There will be different slots for different age groups throughout the afternoon.

Climb the Tower and Bell Ringing – All Saints’ Church

1.00 – 6.00
All Saints’ Church will have an ‘open church’ event, this is a rare opportunity to climb the tower – the highest point in the village and admire the view. See if you can spot your house! Why not try your hand at bell ringing or have a go at creating a flower arrangement to take home. For the adventurous, follow a trail around the church, and enter the ‘design your own gargoyle’ contest. Learn about the history of the Ely Diocese, celebrating 900 years this year or perhaps just enjoy a rest from all the Festival activity in the peace of this ancient building.

Open Gardens – Along the High Street

1.00 – 6.00
More than a dozen beautiful gardens of all sizes and types, some old favourites and some new for 2009, will be open on Sunday. Entrance will be free but some owners will invite donations to charity. Refreshments will be available in some gardens. There will be free regular transport to gardens along the High Street, Histon Road and Rampton Road. A map of gardens is included in this Events Guide on page 12 and will be available from Cottenham Library in advance, and on the day from the information point. Here's more info on the Gardens:-

01 - 27 HIGH ST. – Medium mixed garden with flowers, water, fruit and vegetables. Exotic plants iincluding some tropical fruits. Plants for sale.Teas.

02 - 30 HIGH ST. – Large mixed garden including flowers and woodland.

03 - 135 HIGH ST. – Large formal garden with fruit, water, wild flowers and a knot garden. Jam sale.

04 - 185 HIGH ST. – Large informal garden with flowers, fruit and vegetables. Also a rock garden, woodland and water.

05 - 3 CURRINGTONS CL. – Medium mixed garden with many flowers. Plant sale. Books for sale.

06 - 33 VICTORY WAY – Small mixed garden with flowers, water and a herb garden, decking and pots. Quilts on display. Teas and cakes. Proceeds to Pancreatic Cancer Research.                              

07 - 6 PELHAM CL. – Small garden with mixed borders including shrubs and perennials and a rock garden. There are several old, fragrant, shrub roses. Tomatoes in pots.

08 - 19 PELHAM CL. – Medium, mixed garden with flowers, fruit, wildflowers and water feature. Some tropical plants. Plant sale.

09 - 105 RAMPTON RD. – Large informal and mixed garden with flowers, water and gravel. Teas, plant sale.

10 - 103 RAMPTON RD. – Small mixed garden with flowers, vegetables, water and a rock garden. Teas, plant sale and cake stall.                                        

11 - 33 HISTON RD. - Medium informal, mixed garden with flowers, fruit and water. Plant sale. Proceeds to Samuel  Pepys School.

12 - 123 HISTON RD. – Large garden with flowers, fruit, water and woodland. Cup of Tea.

13 - 40 DENMARK RD. – Medium, mixed formal garden with flowers, fruit, vegetables, and a rock
garden. Interesting stones. Information on the gardens history.

14 - 56 DENMARK RD. – Small mixed garden with flowers, fruit and water.

15 - COTTENHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL - 2 til 4pm - Small Sensory Garden designed and planted by kids, teachers and parents.

The Three Churches Treasure Hunt – Cottenham Churches

1.00 – 6.00
A treasure hunt running between All Saints Church, the Baptist Church, and the Salvation Army Hall. All three buildings are open, and there’s a treasure hunt involving things in and around the three buildings. Participants can start at any point, goodies for all who complete the trail.

Baroque Ensemble – Main Marquee

1.45 – 2.15
A performance of Baroque music to continue the relaxing theme on Sunday afternoon.

Tae Kwon-Do Display – on the Green

4.00 – 4.30
A display that shows how Tae Kwon-Do combines combat techniques, self-defence, sport, exercise, meditation and philosophy.

Brass Band and Hymns – on the Green

4.00 – 5.00
Come and listen to Cottenham Brass Band in the open air playing a selection of music and hymns.

All Saints Singers & Choir – Main Marquee

5.15 – 6.00
Relax to the wonderful selection of modern and classic choir arrangements fused with medleys of jazz, performed by All Saints Singers & Choir.

African Jigsaw Song Dance & Music – BigMouth, Voxpop, TongueTwisters – Main Marquee

6.00 – 6.50
Standing room only for their last performance, this is a must see, bringing together the performing talents of three seasoned groups: BigMouth, Voxpop and TongueTwisters. African Jigsaw premièred in 1986 at London’s Barbican Centre. The story is a powerful mix of song, dance and music that explores life in Africa’s shanty towns and the effects on traditional tribal life. Also accompanied by an eclectic repertoire that spans modern tracks and well known musicals. Sunday evening starts here!

Batanai African Music – Main Marquee Sponsored by Cottenham Parish Council

7.00 – 8.00
Music that is right out of Africa, the acclaimed World Muzik Makers from South Africa give a spell-binding performance of song and dance. Free of charge but donations towards the Festival overheads will be required to ensure these types of events remain open to everyone.

Children of the Kingdom Gospel Choir – Main Marquee

8.15 – 10.00
Don’t miss a brilliant opportunity to catch one of the UK’s premier gospel acts, Children of the Kingdom Gospel Choir, who will be coming to Cottenham, to perform their unique brand of gospel / soul music. Go to www.ckgospelchoir.com to listen. Free of charge but donations towards the Festival overheads will be required to ensure these types of events remain free.


BUSKER TENT on Saturday

A mix of local talent with performances running throughout the weekend including:
Free busking slots to perform 10.00 – 12.00; 12.30 – 1.00; 4.30 – 5.30

The Beauchamp Family & Friends 1.30 – 2.00 Music for everyone.
Stephen’s Irish Dance Team 2.30 – 3.00; 3.30 – 4.00 Irish dancing display.
Session Ceilidh Band 3.00 – 3.30; 4.00 – 4.30 Irish Ceilidh with caller.
Irish Dancing Display 3.30 – 4.00
Session Ceilidh Band 4.00 – 4.30
Irish Ceilidh with caller.

Coverdale Puppet Show – Willingham Baptist Church

12.00 – 12.15; 1.00 – 1.15; 2.00 – 2.15
A fun puppet show that presents Bible stories and Christian morals in an exciting, fun and relevant way to both children and adults, using Muppet-style puppets. No charge.


BUSKER TENT on Sunday

Local talent with great performances continue throughout Sunday including:
Free busking slots to perform 10.00 – 12.00; 3.00 – 5.30 A great way to show off your musical talent to friends, family and new fans. To book a busking slot to perform call Jon Ward on 07783 073763.
Northstow Mummers – The Old Tup – An English Mummers Play 12.00 – 12.30; 2.00 – 2.30
Norse Stories & Poems by Derek Wood 12.30 – 1.00; 2.30 – 3.00
MuzikMakers – African Story Telling 1.00 – 2.00
Story telling that comes alive as music, songs and crafts are used to make the storytelling participatory lively and educational. Traditionally in African societies, myths, fairy tales, phrases and stories are ways in which knowledge is passed on. Traditionally African stories have been used over the centuries to teach vivid imagery, creative writing, morals, values and empathy. A unique experience – open to all ages. Free of charge.


CULTURE TENT on Saturday & Sunday

Display on Stone Circles

10.00 – 5.00
Across the British Isles can be found prehistoric remains which date from the period 3000 BC to 1500 BC, and take the form of a number of stones standing in a circle. The reason for their construction, and the role they played in the society of the time are unknown. There are almost 1,000 stone circles and this display shows some of the many diverse circles across the British Isles.

Wool Spinning

10.00 – 5.00
A display of traditional wool spinning.

Cambridgeshire Archives & Local Studies

10.00 – 5.00
A reflection on local history with a display of photos and film. On Saturday, ‘The Cambridgeshire Parish Chest’ and on Sunday, an exhibition on slavery and a fascinating look into Cambridgeshire Archives. The Cambridgeshire Parish Chest will be on display at All Saints Church.

The Archaeological Dig

10.00 – 5.00
A group of local people with archaeological experience, assisted by professionals, will carry out archaeological activities across the weekend. Any finds will be recorded, linked to the layers of soil in which they are found, and then displayed in the Culture Tent. Kids Dig: Bring the kids along to the Culture tent to dig in a pit and see what they can find!

The Cottenham Village Society

10.00 – 5.00
Take a trip down memory lane with a display of old photos, memories of Cottenham Old School in Margett Street and a quiz of photos of properties from the Village Green to Cottenham Church.

Cottenham and Cambridge Cheese-making Display – Sunday Only

10.00 – 5.00
Find out the history of Cottenham and Cambridge cheeses and get a unique opportunity to taste Cottenham and Cambridge cheese made on the day from traditional recipes.

Village Design Competition – Cottenham Village Design Group

10.00 – 5.00
The Cottenham Village Design Group will be running a competition during the Festival. Also find out about the Cottenham Village Design Statement – essential reading if you are planning your own Grand Design or even a more modest extension. Pick up your free copy if you do not already have one.

Join us on a guided tour of the North end of the High Street where you will find a range of buildings constructed over four centuries. Find out just what lies beneath the unusual uniformity of the houses along the route; there is a greater diversity than might first be assumed. See how factors such as fashion, population pressure and available materials have led to the changes in these buildings over time. Click here for more details plus review the transport timetable here.

Walking Tours of Historical Houses in Cottenham – The Village Society

On the hour each day: 11.00, 12.00, 1.00, 2.00 and 3.00
Take a short guided walking tour from the Village Green to the Methodist Church. This event consists of a talk about old Cottenham properties including photographs. Meet at The Village Society stall in the Culture Tent. No charge.

Bring your Own Artefacts – Culture Tent – Saturday Only

2.00 – 4.00
Bring your own artefacts to the Culture tent to be assessed by archaeologist Richard Mortimer of Oxford Archaeology.
To prevent weather dampening the evening festivities on Saturday or Sunday, bring along your own gazebo (without side coverings) to pitch up in front of the main marquee or arrive early for a space in the marquee.