York 50+ Festival back for an 'unforgettable celebration of connection, creativity and ageing well'

York 50+ Festival: Bob Towner legacy lecture, Mad Hatters March and friendship lunches at The Chopping Block

The York 50+ Festival is back next month. Grace Hammond reports.

It is the point of summer where we have reached festival fever. And thanks to upcoming activities in York, it’s not just a young person’s game.

The York 50+ Festival takes place between Thursday, October 1 and Sunday, October 18 and is “a chance to challenge ageism and shine a spotlight on the energy, creativity, and incredible contributions of older people,” say organisers.

More than 80 events will be taking place across four key categories: sports and active leisure, information and advice, social activity and learning, and creative and culture.

Yorks Minster dominates the skyline with Ledal Bridge. Photograph by Tony Johnson.

Matthew Knight, who is serving his first year as chair of York Older People's Assembly (YOPA), says: “Last year’s festival made a real impact, praised as a ‘wonderfully inclusive’ celebration that truly embraced people of all ages and generations. This year, we’ve added some brand new activities and we’re calling on everyone to come together once again, share that same enthusiasm and help us create another unforgettable celebration of connection, creativity and ageing well.”

This year, the festival will welcome Professor Alan Walker CBE, Emeritus Professor of Social Policy and Social Gerontology at the University of Sheffield, for a special lecture celebrating the legacy of Bob Towner, a passionate champion for the rights of older people. The evening will explore the important topic of “Creating an age- friendly society – realising the right to age well”, and takes place on Thursday, October 1 from 5.30pm to 8pm at York St John University’s Creative Centre.

There will also be a series of special Friendship Lunches taking place at The Chopping Block, French bistro on Walmgate, on September 24, October 8 and October 15 between 1pm and 2.30pm, liking the York 50+ Festival to the renowned York Food Festival, of which Michael Hjort, joint owner of restaunt, is director.

Michael says: “It’s a wonderful opportunity for people who may not usually go out to eat on their own to enjoy great food, meet others and be part of the community.”

Matthew Knight, chairman of YOPA.

Also new this year is the Information Fair on Tuesday, October 6 frpm 10am to noon at York Theatre Royal. This will bring together a range of organisations offering support and guidance across a variety of topics, providing an opportunity to discover what’s available, ask questions, connect with local services and share a coffee with theatre goers.

There is even a Mad Hatters March on Saturday, October 3 for which are invited don their favourite hat and join the fun.

Carl Wain, Deputy Chief Executive, Age UK York, says: “The festival encourages as many people as possible to get involved. Whether you’re looking to discover new passions, try something different, meet new people or simply enjoy spending time with others. It’s about celebrating curiosity and creativity as well as encouraging people to Act Now, Age Better through the city’s wonderful range of physical activities.”