The Altrincham & District Festival, the biggest free event in Trafford, is back this weekend for its 49th year.
A team of volunteers has once again worked hard to pull the annual event together, with the famous Grand Parade on Saturday followed by two days of family fun at Beech Fields in Timperley.
What is the Altrincham Festival?
The Altrincham Festival started in 1977 as part of the Queen's Silver Jubilee celebrations. It's always been volunteer-run and not-for-profit. The Grand Parade gives local good causes, charities and businesses the chance to showcase what they do.
When is the Altrincham Festival?
The festival takes place on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th June at Beech Fields, Timperley (WA15 6DY). The Grand Parade sets off at 11am on Saturday, and the showground is open from 11am to 6pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday.
What route will the Grand Parade take?
The Grand Parade starts at 11am at St Margaret's Road, travels down The Downs, Railway Street and Stamford New Road in Altrincham town centre, then continues over the Woodlands Parkway flyover on to Stockport Road. It carries on to Timperley village, up Park Road and on to Grange Avenue, before arriving at Beech Fields.
Last year saw 48 participants take part - the largest turnout in over 15 years - with floats including tractors, show trucks, community groups, local schools, animals and local businesses.
What's happening on the Beech Fields showground?
There'll be a full stage line-up of choirs, bands and vocalists across the whole weekend. On both days you'll find a fun fair, a variety of food and drink stalls, local business stalls, Shetland ponies, a full bar and children's activities.
What about the dog show?
After going down so well last year, the dog show returns on Sunday 28th June. Registration opens at 9.30am, with competitions running from 11am to 2.30pm. Categories include Golden Oldies, Rescue Dogs, Best Turned Out, Prettiest Girl, Most Handsome Boy, Best Trick, Waggiest Tail and Large Breeds.
One lucky winner will take home a pet and family videography session worth £1,000, donated by Holly Dwyer Photography.
And the car boot sale?
The hugely popular car boot sale also runs on Sunday. Pitches are £10 per car (second-hand goods only), with gates open for sellers at 9am and the public welcome from 10am. To book a spot, contact Paul on 07791 780881.
Anyone interested in taking part in the Grand Parade or running a stall can get in touch at info@altyfestival.co.uk.
