Gloucester celebrates its history and heritage with a packed programme of events

Gloucester’s history and heritage will take centre stage this Saturday (5 September) as Gloucester Day returns to the city centre, marking the start of a packed programme of events celebrating the city’s fascinating past.

---

The city will come alive with parades, living history, music, entertainment and family activities as residents and visitors come together to celebrate Gloucester’s rich heritage and the people, places and stories that have shaped the city.

Gloucester Day commemorates the lifting of the Siege of Gloucester in 1643, when the city successfully resisted Royalist forces during the English Civil War. The annual celebration brings the important chapter of Gloucester’s history to life, while showcasing the city’s strong sense of community and civic pride.

The day begins at 10am, with the programme of events taking place throughout the city centre.

The Mock Mayor of Barton Parade will set off at 11am, before the Mock Mayor meets the Mayor of Gloucester on Southgate Street. A Thanksgiving Service will then take place at St Mary de Crypt at 12pm.

The main Gloucester Day Parade will take place at 2pm, bringing historical characters, performers, and community groups through the city centre.

Visitors will also be able to step back in time with Sealed Knot living history displays behind St Mary de Crypt from 10am. The displays will recreate life during the English Civil War, with an artillery display taking place at approximately 3pm.

The celebrations will continue across Gloucester’s historic Four Gate Streets, with music, entertainment, food stalls and activities creating a lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy throughout the day.

Over at The Folk of Gloucester, visitors can also enjoy a programme of family-friendly activities, including Civil War re-enactments, historical displays, live music, and children's craft activities.

Izzy Townsend, Marketing Executive at Gloucester BID, said: “Gloucester Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate everything that makes our city so special, while bringing its fascinating history to life for visitors and residents.

“Gloucester Day marks the beginning of a packed programme of events celebrating the city’s heritage throughout September. From the History Festival to Heritage Open Days from 11 September, there are so many opportunities to discover more about Gloucester, explore its historic places and hear the stories which have shaped our city.”

The History Festival will offer talks, events and activities exploring Gloucester’s past, while Heritage Open Days will give visitors the opportunity to discover some of the city’s fascinating historic buildings, hidden spaces and stories, with special events and access taking place across the city.

With Gloucester Day kicking off a city celebration of the history and heritage throughout September, there are plenty of reasons to Visit Gloucester.