The popular Arrow Valley Park will be alight with the colours of autumn this week with a free event for residents.

The “Illuminating Autumn” event will return to the park, new and improved, after last year’s initial trial.

The event will run slightly later this year on Friday 11^th and Saturday 12^th November and boasts a free light trail, music, and food stalls*, for all ages to enjoy, from 5pm until 9pm at Arrow Valley Country Park.

On Saturday 12^th November, visitors are also invited to join in with a free lantern walk around the lake from 6pm, led by the fantastic Elton Wrong and the amazing magical mobile piano! To take part, just bring a lantern and join in the fun.

The light trail and event space will be focused around the visitor’s centre and central area of the park so anyone wishing to walk round the lake outside of the organised lantern walks is advised to bring their own torch as it may still be dark in these outer areas.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure Services, Cllr Jo Beecham, said: “With lots of local private firework displays elsewhere last weekend, I am glad that we’re also offering this extra alternative on a different weekend. Not only is completely free and something different to keep your family entertained in the run up to the start of Christmas festivities, but there are also many reasons why some children and adults do not enjoy traditional fireworks, whether they’re scared, have learning difficulties or PTSD, or are upset by the issues it causes to their pets. This instead is something that everyone can enjoy. I personally can’t wait to see our lantern parade headed up by Elton Wrong and his magic piano!”

Redditch Borough Council Leader, Cllr Matt Dormer, said: “To put on a firework display can cost in the region of £25k for a ten-minute show, which is just not sustainable or a good use of public money. The illuminating autumn event provides much better value and our team have listened to residents’ comments from last year and worked hard to make the event even better. It is better for the environment, local wildlife and is safer for residents attending too.”

With increasing costs and security issues in mind, borough council leaders made the decision to replace the traditional fireworks display, usually at Arrow Valley Country Park, with a free, autumn celebration for all ages.

*Additional charges apply to purchase food from vendors.

Please note, outdoor performances and the light show are subject to change/cancellation due to adverse weather conditions or if the Government’s Covid19 advice changes.

For more information about the event go to www.redditchbc.gov.uk and search Illuminating Autumn or follow our social media channels.

To book a stall or be a vendor at the event please contact the council’s events team on 01527 534030 or email events@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk