Celebrate Roald Dahl Day in Manchester this Weekend

'A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.' Roald Dahl

I loved reading as a child, and although he wasn't my favourite author, Roald Dahl was definitely in my top five. His books filled part of my childhood bookshelves and have always stayed with me. My favourites were George's Marvelous Medicine and Danny, Champion of the World!

2016 marks 100 years since the birth of one of the greatest Children's authors and 13th September was his birthday. There are events happening all over the world to celebrate and plenty happening in Manchester over the weekend. My children will be dressing up as their favourite characters for school on Tuesday to mark the occasion (Fantastic Mr Fox and either Matilda or a witch - she's not decided yet!) before before that we'll be heading in to Manchester City Centre on Sunday to have some fantastic fun!

Glittering Eyes pop up cinema

On Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th there will be a fantastical  Glittering Eyes pop up cinema at New Bailey near Spinningfields. There will be showings of James and the Giant Peach,  Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,  Matilda and The Witches. It's not just about the movie showings though as there will be a wonderland of Dahl themed activities from a walk through Willy Wonka's garden to a giant peach pop-up library and loads of Children’s entertainment as well as lots of tasty street food traders to tempt your tastebuds! 
New Bailey Street, Salford, M3 5AX (tickets from £7.50 available at www.eventbrite.co.uk).  

Roald Dahl Big Picnic Day at Tatton Park

To celebrate this special birthday Tatton Park are opening their Gardens to picnickers for the first time on Sunday 11th September 2016, so you can bring a picnic and settle down in their gorgeous formal Gardens! And what's more, they will be free to enter for everyone! During your picnic enjoy exploring the 50-acre garden. There’s a fabulous Danny the Champion of the World Trail to follow full-of-fun obstacles. James and the Giant Peach and the Twits provide further fun! A great afternoon entertainment programme includes a mini disco, Roald Dahl inspired performances and the young ones can settle down and listen in to storytelling. On the day you’ll be able to give a little by treating yourself to a slice of the most humungous, yummy birthday cake baked by our very own baker …..the proceeds go to Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity caring for seriously ill children. Go dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character and you could win a superlicious surprise! Gardens open from 10am. Activities take place between 12pm and 3pm. Ice cream, beers and hot and cold refreshments are available to purchase. Car parking is £6 per car. Find out more here