Late summer book sale!

Acomb Green Summer Fair

Sat 24 Aug, 1pm to 4pm at Acomb Green

An afternoon of family fun awaits residents and visitors at the third annual Acomb Green Summer Fair.

Why not come along for the falconry display showcasing birds of prey including owls and eagles, or enter your pooch in the ‘Doggy X Factor’ competition which is free to enter with prizes to be won for the community’s most appealing canines.  Other activities available will be:

Live music,
BBQ,
Bouncy castle,
Charity stalls,
Street Sports,
Tombolas,
Ice cream,
Climbing wall,
Face painting,
Come and see our new play area!

Entry: Free

For more information please contact Jenny Cairns on 07833 436832 or jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk

Want your child to be a Wimbledon wonder?

Mon 5 to Fri 23 Aug

These tennis sessions are for children aged 4 to 14yrs.  Children aged 4 to 9yrs will attend the 1pm to 2pm session and children aged 10 to 14yrs will attend the session taking place at 2pm to 3pm.

All attendees will receive tuition from a highly qualified tennis coach. The tennis coach (Andy) is fun and engaging and on previous camps children have developed their skills while having fun.

Sessions cost £4 per person per class and operate on a pay as you play basis, limited spaces are available - to book your child on to a camp please contact: andycrockett@tennisforallyork.co.uk

Adult cycle training

Sat 3 Aug, 10am to 1pm, Rowntree Park

If you or someone you know has never learned to ride a bike or not been on a bike for a number of years then this training would be ideal. The sessions will be broken down into hourly slots, led by City of York Council cycle trainers who will provide friendly help and advice to get you in the saddle, no matter what your previous experience - anyone can learn!

Bikes can be provided

Cost: Free

Booking is essential - if you wish to attend or for further information please contact Sarah Prescott on 01904 553377 sarah.prescott@york.gov.uk

Fun in the park!

Hull Road Park Summer Fair, Sat 3 Aug 1pm to 3.30pm

Our summer fayre promises fun for all the family.  And this year promises to be bigger and better than ever and we would love you to join the fun.

There will be a huge range of stalls and activities including:

Birds of prey flying demonstrations       
Fun dog show

Live music                                                 
Climbing wall

Model railway                                           
Face painting

Henna tattoos                                           
Storytelling                                                

Arts and crafts                                        
Willow weaving

Charity and community stalls                
Food and drinks

Bouncy castles                                        
Street Sports

For further information please contact Jenny Cairns on 07833 436832 or jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk 

Balsam bashing

Over the last 4 years we have been trying to remove this invasive weed from Rowntree Park.  It grows so densely it shades out other plants and stops them growing.  We need to pull it up before it starts spreading thousands of seeds.

The work we have done over the last few years is definitely working so join us to continue this work and see if we can get rid of it for good!

Meet at Rowntree Park, Mon 19 Aug 1pm to 3pm

For more information please contact Jenny Cairns on 07833 436832 or jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk

Learning is for everyone so don't miss out!

An amazing programme of over 300 adult education courses will be available for autumn 2013 including painting, drawing, flower arranging, dressmaking and many new and unusual courses,  booking is open from July.  Brochures are being delivered from 1 July around York and are available from libraries or online at www.yortime.org.uk

For more information or to book:

• Online www.yortime.org.uk
• Phone 01904 552806 Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm
• In person at our new West Offices, Station Rise - Mon, Weds and Fri 10am to 4pm (Please note: booking can no longer be made at York Explore)

All our courses are sold on a first come first served basis so don't miss out.  Book up in July for your autumn courses!

Do IT now!

Beginners computer courses, ECDL (ITQ), CLAIT, Camera to Computer, Legal Typist, various workshops in Word Processing, Spreadsheets, PowerPoint Presentations.

Various daytime and evening classes at venues across the city, including drop in sessions in the Library Learning Centres at Explore Acomb, Clifton, Tang Hall and Explore York.

Please ring Julie or Grace on 01904 552666 to arrange a personal assessment.

Wall to Rock - an introduction to outdoor climbing

Ask any climber, and they will tell you that indoor climbing is great, but outdoors is where the fun, the atmosphere and the exhilaration really begins. This introduction to outdoor climbing experience is the perfect place to start this amazing sport.

Wall to rock is on Sat 13 July, depending on the weather either at Brimham Rocks or Almscliff Crag.

This one day introductory course is aimed at beginners and indoor climbers, aged 18 and over, who would like to gain an insight into the challenges of outdoor climbing.  The day will focus on introducing outdoor climbing techniques, communication and identifying hazards.  We will be using one of the fantastic local gritstone crags to the west of York - Brimham Rocks or Almscliffe Crag.

All equipment will be provided and the emphasis will be on enjoyment of the challenge and having fun.

Details of the venue, where to meet and a KIT LIST will be emailed to you in good time before the event.

Cost: £55

To book visit: www.yortime.org.uk or phone 01904 552806

Have you got an EYE for watercolour painting?

This watercolour landscapes workshop is being held on Sat 20 July 10am to 3pm at The Eye of York. 

During the session you will gain practical knowledge and learn tips and techniques for producing landscapes in watercolour with the emphasis on gaining skills and sharing practical knowledge.  Through tutor presentation, demonstrations, practical exercises and individual guidance you will cover areas such as: washes for skies, creating clouds, the importance of tone, scale and placement, colour mixing and handy tips to produce buildings in perspective.

So come along and let us bring out the artist in you!

Cost: £30

Rowntree Park birthday party

The annual summer fair will take place on Sat 13 July 2013, 2pm to 5pm and promises to be a great day out for all the family. The event is being organised by City of York Council’s ranger team and the Friends of Rowntree Park.

The Rowntree Company gave Rowntree Park as a gift to the people of the city 92 years ago on 16 July 1921 in memory of workers who fell during the war.  Every summer a ‘birthday party’ is held to remember this event, and a cake will be cut during the celebrations in honour of the park and its origins.

Attractions at the birthday party include a birds of prey display, live music, face painting, community stalls, food and drinks, ice creams, bouncy castle, yarnbombing, story telling, willow weaving and a fun dog show.

Parking is limited to disabled badge holders only, so other visitors are asked to walk or take public transport.  Please note the car park will be closed all day to allow time to set up and take down.

For more information contact Jenny Cairns tel: 07833 436832 or email: jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk  

Will your children dare take the challenge?

Join this year’s Summer Reading Challenge running in every York library from Sat 13 July to Sun 15 Sept 2013.

Our Theme is a mysterious adventure called “Creepy House”.  We challenge all 5 to 12 year olds to read 6 books in 3 stages.

Stage 1: The Awful Upstairs - read two books and collect stickers to reveal its residents.

Stage 2: The Gruesome Ground Floor - read two more books to discover who is hiding there.

Stage 3: The Spine-tingling Cellar - read two final books and complete the challenge by unveiling the bone shaking Skeleton Family Robinson.

Every time you read a book there will be a small prize and everyone who completes the challenge will be entered into a draw to win a Kindle Fire HD .  There is also a mini challenge for Under 5s to collect stickers as they read.

The challenge launches at Explore York Library with a day of activities on Sat 13 July 11am to 4pm, but don’t worry if you can’t get there you can join up any time over the summer at any York library.

Roll back the years with Hula-cise!

Thur 11 July 8pm to 9pm at Tang Hall Community Centre

Hula Hooping is the newest fitness craze sweeping the nation.  Come and join us for a free taster session and learn how to reap the amazing benefits from this fun, low impact, calorie burning workout.

For further information or to register your interest then please contact Catriona at catriona.sudlow@york.gov.uk or on 01904 553377.

York Festival of Ideas

The Festival of Ideas is taking place from Thu13 to Sat 29 June at various venues across the city.   The Festival is organised by the University of York along with many other partners, and hosted by multiple venues including York Explore, the Mansion House, Yorkshire Museum, the University and Explore Acomb Library.

This year's programme, with a theme of North and South, brings together a range of world-class speakers, exhibitions, performances and a host of stimulating and interactive experiences for people of all ages, including York residents and visitors to the city.

Headline speakers including Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, broadcaster and novelist Melvyn Bragg, screenwriter of Cranford and Call the Midwife, Heidi Thomas, archaeologists and broadcasters Michael Wood and Michael C Scott, and novelists including Judith O’Reilly and Jenni Fagan.

For further information visit: http://yorkfestivalofideas.com/2013/

Celebrate the past, the present and the future...

Sun 30 Jun, 12noon to 4pm in Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square

York has a long standing association with the militiary, of which it is extremely proud.  This event will have representatives from the Army, Navy and Air Force and will provide entertainment and fun irrespective of age.  From the Variety Marquee featuring a variety of acts including the Military Wives Choir, the sight and sound of the Yorkshire Regimental Band to a paint balling experience and many other activities.  There will even be a field hospital, military kitchen and weapons display as well as military vehicles and a world war 1 cinema!.

For further information please go to www.yorkfestivals.com 

All the fun of the fair

West Bank Park will be transformed into a festive focus for the community, when it's annual summer fair takes place.

At the West Bank Park Fair on Sun 30 June, from 1pm to 4pm, families will be entertained with a falconry display and fun dog show with classes including best pooch smooch and dog most like its owner.

There will be a bouncy castle, climbing wall and for those who prefer to watch and listen, people can pull up a chair for the musical entertainment from live local bands.

Over 20 community stalls will be run by groups selling cakes or plants or offering games, tomboloas and showing people the sort of work they do.  There will also be face painting and henna tattooing, and a chance to drive model cars or try your hand at playing bowls. Besides trying out street sports or having a football kick-around, why not try arts and crafts activities including storytelling, juggling and willow weaving?

The event is being organised by City of York Council in conjunction with the Friends of West Bank Park, and is financially supported by the Holgate Ward Committee. Jenny Cairns, a City of York Council ranger said: "This is usually a very well-attended summer fair and is a great demonstration of what a traditional summer fair is all about. The park will be buzzing with activity on Sunday afternoon with something for everyone to enjoy."

Entry is free but there is no parking on site so all visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport. West Bank Park is in Holgate, with entrances on Acomb Road, New Lane and Hamilton Drive. For more information contact Jenny Cairns tel: 07833 436832 or email: jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk  

Saints and sinners

Sun 30 Jun, 1.30pm to 3.30pm at York Explore

See our historic city through Medieval eyes as we explore the people and human stories behind the facades of the great monuments. This guided walk tells of good and evil, of saintly intentions and of worldly ambitions as grand knights and flamboyant churchmen assert their status. Discover also the people in the shadows - the devotees of alchemy and the occult. This is a rich and varied portrait of a tempestuous era.

We will all meet in the Garden Room at York Explore Library to enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee with a delicious slice of cake. This will give everyone a chance to meet each other and for the tutor to give a quick briefing.  The walk will then start and end at the library.

To book a place, please contact York Explore on 01904 552828 or exploreyork@york.gov.uk or book online through the Inspire website: www.feelinginspired.co.uk

Are you taking the 'P' ?

Sun 16 Jun, 9am at Rowntree Park

It’s time for men to get out their running shoes and raise money for charity. The annual York prostate cancer fun run is looking for hundreds of runners and walkers willing to spend Father’s Day completing a scenic three miles in and around the city centre.

The only criteria for taking part in the 4th R U Taking the P? run is to be male. Sporting prowess is not necessary and entrants are welcome to run, jog, walk or use a wheelchair to cover the route. Already some men who have survived prostate cancer have signed up.

Joint organiser Brian Hughes, of York Knavesmire Harriers, said thousands of women turn out every year for the annual Race for Life in aid of breast cancer, but prostate cancer is barely spoken about, despite 37,000 new cases being diagnosed every year in the UK.

The race on June 16, Father’s Day, starts outside the main gates of Rowntree Park and takes the runners and walkers over the Millennium, Skeldergate and Blue Bridges, through Tower Gardens and St George’s Field, up to Clifford’s Tower and in two loops round Rowntree Park itself.

Entry forms are available from Yorkshire Cancer Research’s website at yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk

Carnival time!

Sun 16 Jun, 12noon to 8pm in York city centre

The students from the University of York have pulled out all the stops to bring a festival to the centre of the city which will include two stages, one presenting bands and choirs, the other dance and much more.  The carnival parade will commence from the Minster Gardens at 12.45.  Other activities will be in Parliament Street. 

For information on the parade, the artists, drummers and dancers performing, the workshops available and the stalls and companies attending are available on www.yorkcarnival.org 

It's not all black and white

If you want to know more about support agencies for dementia in York and how libraries can help, come to Tang Hall Library on 6 June 10am to 3pm for our mental health information fair; tea and coffee will be available too!

For more information please contact Tang Hall Library on 01904 552655

Have a bash!

Mon 3 Jun, 1pm to 3pm at Rowntree Park

Over the last 4 years we have been trying to remove the 'Himalayan Balsam' (Impatiens glandulifera), an invasive weed, from the park.  It grows so densely it shades out other plants and stops them growing.  We need to pull it up before it starts spreading thousands of seeds.

The work we have done over the last few years is definitely working so join us to continue this work and see if we can get rid of it for good!

For more information please contact Jenny Cairns on 07833 436832 or jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk

Free lunch

Sun 2 Jun, 11am to 2pm at Rowntree Park

The Big Lunch is a national annual event, and this year the Halifax Bank are organising a fun day in Rowntree Park around the performance area.  Free food (while supplies last), a band to entertain, face painting and much, much more, so bring the family!

For more information visit: http://www.thebiglunch.com/

Bowl me over!

Saturdays 1, 8, 15 and 22 June at York RI Bowls Club Holgate Road

York RI Bowls Club are giving you the opportunity to take part in a series of free taster sessions, you never know you this might be your sport!  So why not come along and have a go? Bowls can be provided. Please wear flat shoes.

For further information or to register your interest then please contact Stephen Atkinson on 01904 795655

Doggy delights

Sat 1 and Sun 2 June, from 10am at Bustardthorpe Field, York Knavesmire

Flyball Racing is the dog sport for everyone. Imagine four dogs, competing against each other, side–by–side on two separate racing lanes. Then picture a packed crowd of spirited spectators waiting to hear "Get Your Ball" and the excited barking of the competitors at the cue to start the race. If you can envision racing lanes with four jumps, spaced ten feet apart, and a Flyball box at the end of each lane you know the thrill of Flyball Racing. The anticipation of a great race is just one of the reasons that Flyball Racing has become such a popular sport for dog enthusiasts all over the world. Flyball Racing has developed from its humble beginnings in a wood shop in North America to a sport that, due to its large number of participants, has become a more formalized competition. Large or small, fat or thin, dogs of all breeds compete.  A guaranteed fun experience.

Food and drink available on site.

Market of Hidden Labours

Nine market stalls will be open on Thu 2 and Fri 3 May from 10am to 4pm in the approach to West Offices’ new Customer Centre entrance off Toft Green. The market is a pilot project aimed at laying the foundations for similar events in the future, and complements the council’s citywide ideas internet platform GeniUS! which invites people to share ideas to improve life in York.

Also on 2 May at West Offices, from 11.45am to 1pm, John Newling will give an illustrated talk called 'Common Values'. This major lecture will be a rare opportunity to hear the artist talk about his work over a period of 30 years, his more recent research in York and the ideas behind the Market Of Hidden Labours.

To book your free tickets on http://commonvalues.eventbrite.co.uk or call Arts & Events on 01904 554667

It's all in the mind...

Sun 19 May 9.30am to 4.30pm at Middlethorpe Hall, Bishopthorpe Rd

Most of us experience improved health when we eat a balanced diet, exercise and sleep well, but how often do we consider the benefits of a healthy mind?

Come along and find out why an increasing number of people (including students, parents of young children, corporate directors and healthcare professionals) are turning to mindfulness meditation not only to support their general well-being but also as a means of managing health concerns such as high blood pressure, IBS, CFS/ME stress, anxiety and depression.

No previous experience of meditation is required as the day is designed to explore the benefits of meditation to our health and to provide the opportunity for delegates to experience mindfulness meditation.

This day of inspiration and relaxation at the beautiful Middlethorpe Hall will offer the opportunity to:

• Take some time out to recharge your batteries
• Experience the benefits of secular mindfulness meditation
• Develop skills to use in your daily life to help you become & remain calm, relaxed, focused &  energised
• Discover - in an easily understandable way! - how modern science has rewritten our understanding of the brain and why taking an active approach to looking after our mind is as essential to our health and well-being as exercise and diet.

All refreshments and a buffet style lunch will be included - Cost £85

To book visit: https://www.yortime.org.uk/eCommunityEvents/ExternalSearch.aspx?cdID=1263%20

Let us inspire you...

Fri 24 to Sun 26 May 10am to 4pm (Fri and Sat) and 11am to 3pm (Sun) at York Explore Library Learning Centre
We will be exhibiting a colourful and imaginative collection of art produced by learners on the Adult Education programme, as well as submissions from the Fine Art Departments of York College and WEA (Workers Education Association). The display will reflect the wide range of courses we have available from painting to stained glass.

We are also offering a wonderful selection of creative workshops. So come along and visit us to find out more about opening times, workshops and the courses we run.

For more information on the Inspirations Festival and to book onto a workshop please visit www.yortime.org.uk, e-mail: adult.education@york.gov.uk or call 01904 552806

Happy centenary to you!

Sat 25 May 10am to 11am and 11.30am to 12.30am at New Earswick Library

Suitable for beginners, these sessions aim to give learners the confidence to begin researching their family history using the Ancestry website, which is available to access for free within any City of York Library.

To book your free place please contact New Earswick Library on newearswick.library@york.gov.uk or (01904) 552629.

Who do you think you are?

Tue 21 and Thur 23 May 10.15am to 11.45am at Rowntree Park Reading Cafe

These IT sessions are suitable for anybody who has a basic knowledge of how to use computers, and wants to find out about how to search free family history websites. The sessions will introduce websites for UK birth, marriage and death records and also UK census records.

During the IT session, there will be an opportunity to search the websites using your own research so bring along your certificates and research notes.  Why not have a cup of tea and slice of cake while you look!

To book your free place contact Rowntree Park Reading Cafe on (01904) 551489 or rowntreepark.readingcafe@york.gov.uk

Get fit for summer with pilates

Starts Tue 7 May 2pm to 3pm at York RI Sports Ground, New Lane, Holgate

Pilates is a body conditioning routine that may help build flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance in the legs, abdominals, arms, hips, and back.  Pilates improves muscle tone, balance, supports beautiful posture, and teaches you to move with ease and grace. All of these things will make you look and feel very fit.

Limited places available - cost £5 per session

For further information or to book contact Catriona Sudlow on 01904 553377 or email at catriona.sudlow@york.gov.uk

Make some shapes

Five stages will provide music for all – added to which will be side shows, food, drink – something for all the family. 

A fantastic line-up of internationally known as well as those on their way up.  Whatever your likes where music is concerned there's bound to be something to entertain you.

For full information and line up visit www.yo1events.co.uk  

Move up ducks!

Sun 26 May from 12noon at Rowntree Park

Bring along the family and watch the wonder of the Model Boat Regatta on the lake. 

Enthusiasts from miles around bring their model boats and sail them on the lake, causing amusement for the ducks.

A wonderful way to spend an early summer afternoon – bring a picnic or eat at the newly refurbished park cafe.  Enjoy an ice cream and let the children play to their hearts content... 

Calling all artists!

The Arts Database is a free to register which can be done easily via an online form www.york.gov.uk/artsdatabase

Once you are registered as a member you will be kept informed of any arts related activities, funding news and opportunities that arise in York and the surrounding areas. 

If you wish to promote or offer arts related services you can agree to have your details made available to the Council, third party organisations, educational institutions and other interested parties across York and North Yorkshire.

The old database is now obsolete, so if you were registered and would now like your details to be included in the new database, please go to www.york.gov.uk/artsdatabase to register. 

For further information about the database please call us on 01904 554667 or email artseducation@york.gov.uk.

‘Just Jog’ after work

Every Wednesday 5.30pm to 6.15pm, meet at the War Memorial near West Offices.

Following the successful programme during the build up to last year's Race for Life, Sport and Active Leisure are once again providing the opportunity to build your fitness ready for the 5km and 10km events.

Sessions are widely available across the city and more information can be found at www.york.gov.uk/race4life . A session that is new to the programme starts from outside West Offices at 5:30pm every Wednesday, we hope to see you there after work.

It is easy to join; you can turn up on the night, complete a registration form and enjoy the session. If you require more information please contact Dean Sharp via email: dean.sharp@york.gov.uk or call 01904 555716.

Buskival

Sat 25 (11am to 7pm) and Sun 26 May (12noon to 5pm) in York city centre

Be amazed by some of the international acts visiting our glorious city and help to decide who should be 'York’s Favourite Busker'.  Collect a voting form from the information tent in Parliament Street and tell us who you think should win!

This year there will be free activities and workshops, for the whole family to enjoy, to help develop your circus skills!  Buskival is sponsored by HomeSense.

For more information visit www.yorkfestivals.com  www.facebook.com/Buskival  or follow @York_Festivals

Throwing open artists' doors

Come along and enjoy York’s 12th Open Studio. It offers the opportunity to enjoy and buy a broad range of work whilst visiting artists in their studios in informal surroundings.

As with previous years artists have been carefully selected to ensure the exhibited work is of a high quality in variety of subject matter and media. There will be a showcase of students work from York College and recent graduates are highlighted in the directory. Some artists offer demonstrations, talks and other activities.

The Open Studio’s brochure and map shows details about each artist’s work, venue locations, parking information and contact details, along with main cycle routes.

All details of can be found on www.yorkopenstudios.co.uk

All venues are open to everyone including children. For details of disabled access, please contact the listed artists or venue.

Link for map of open studios in York: http://www.yorkopenstudios.co.uk/documents/YOS-maps-2013.pdf

Jewellery gems

Starts Mon 15 April (for 5 weeks), 7pm to 9pm at Huntington School

Learn about basic glass fusing techniques, glass types and its complex chemical structure, as well as how glass behaves at high temperatures and see examples of contemporary and historic use of the technique.

Get hands on cutting glass, and then working with copper sheet, frits etc. to develop your own jewellery designs.

All materials and equipment will be supplied, so all you need to bring is your creativity.

Each learner will be given two jewellery fittings to create a final piece although additional brooch backs, and bails as well as necklaces and can be purchased at cost price at the end of the course.

Cost: £65

For more information visit www.yortime.org.uk

In the picture

Photography workshops for 2013

Photography Masterclass Rooftops & Architecture - This evening workshop will take place in the beautiful Mansion House in the centre of York where you’ll have the unique opportunity to gain access to the rooftop to capture the night sky and some spectacular views across the city.

Landscape Photography in York - Get creative with your camera and join us on this one day introduction to landscape photography centred in and around the beautiful, historic city of York.

Into The Landscape - Photography Seminar - Discover how the professionals set about making their images in this award-winning seminar on landscape photography.

Booking details or more information please phone 01904 552806 or visit www.yortime.org.uk

Rooftops & Architecture Workshop £70
Landscape Photography Workshop £150
Into The Landscape £12

Murder and mayhem in ancient Rome

Fri 19 April, 1pm to 2pm at York Explore

Historical novelist Lindsey Davis is best known for her mystery series featuring Roman detective, Marcus Didius Falco. She has won the Crime Writers Association Historical Dagger, Dagger in the Library, and a Sherlock for Falco as Best Detective. In 2010 the city of Rome gave her the Premio Colosseo, awarded 'for enhancing the image of Rome'.

Her latest novel The Ides of April is the first of a new series set in Ancient Rome and featuring Flavia Albia, the adopted daughter of Falco. It takes place on the plebeian Aventine Hill, where we meet Albia’s personal circle – some familiar, some new. We glimpse old haunts and hear of old friends, in the company of Albia, as she fearlessly tackles inhumanity and injustice.

Tickets cost £5 (including a drink) and are available from York Explore on 01904 552828, email: exploreyork@york.gov.uk or call into your local library or book online at www.feelinginspired.co.uk

Smiley Riley

Sun 28 April, from 12noon at Mille Crux Fields (St John's Sports Club), Haxby Road
The Smiley Riley Fund UK is a non-profit making organisation that makes donations to families and carers of children with brain tumours having chemotherapy to help with their travelling costs. Brain tumours kill more children than any other cancer yet there is no co-ordinated support for the children and families affected.

But now York’s Smiley Riley Fund is working with the charity Brainstrust to change this, and create an amazing legacy for York’s own Riley Plant who died from a brain tumour in 2012 aged just 21 months.

Join us in sponsored runs for 0 – 11year olds with great prizes

Free Family Explore Challenge with prizes

Children’s rides, splat the rat. Bouncy castles, tumble tot tasters, stalls, food, ice cream and lots more....

Loads of fun for all the family!

For sponsor form and registration form visit: www.smileyrileyfund.co.uk or phone 07973 758186/07818506476

Listen to the band

Sun 21 Apr, 12.30 to 1.30pm in Rowntree Park

The York RI Golden Rail Development Band is a non-contesting 4th section equivalent band. It performs a variety of concerts all year round to the local community in York and further afield.

The band will be playing free, for your pleasure, on the lawn in front of the newly refurbished reading cafe in Rowntree Park, a treat for all the family.

More details about the band are available here: http://www.yorkrigoldenrailband.co.uk/Beginners-Band

Turn back time

Sun 14 Apr, 11am to 4pm at The Eye of York

Hosted by Yorkshire Military Vehicle Trust, one of the largest one day meetings of military vehicles in the world.

This unique event is held right in the heart of historic York and provides a wonderful opportunity to turn back the clock and admire these outstanding vehicles and learn something of their past.

Cost: Free

More information available on www.yorkshiremvt.co.uk

Wild flower planting

Mon 15 and 29 Apr, 1pm to 3pm at Acomb wood (15th) and Rawcliffe Country Park (29th)

We will be planting a mixture of native bluebells, snowdrops and wood anemone to try and increase the ground flora in the woodland.  We will concentrate on the areas where trees have been recently felled, and more light can reach the woodland floor.

Please contact Jenny Cairns if you intend to come along on 07833 436832 or jennifer.cairns@york.gov.uk , so we can make sure we have enough tools and equipment.

Cost: Free

Meet at the Tesco car park off Acomb Wood Drive.

Get stuffed and stitched

Sat 27 and Sun 28 April, 9am to 1.30pm at Rogues Atelier, 28a Fossgate.

This traditional upholstery masterclass will teach you how to restore upholstered furniture back to its former glory!

All materials and equipment will be provided, then at the end of the course you will have the option to purchase your chair for £45 if you wish. 

Course suitable for all levels of abilities.

For booking details or more information please phone  01904  552806 or visit:  www.yortime.org.uk

Gruelling experiences

Sat 27 Apr, 2pm to 3pm at York Explore


For many, the word ‘workhouse’ conjures up images such as the orphan Oliver Twist begging for food from a cruel workhouse Overseer. The reality, however, was somewhat different, and Britain’s system of poor relief arguably saved thousands of people from starvation.

This lecture will look at the story of the workhouse in and around York, covering such topics as the evolution of the workhouse system, workhouse buildings, life inside the institution, and workhouse records.

Cost: £4

To book a place contact York Explore on 01904 552828 or email exploreyork@york.gov.uk

York's lost symbols

Yorks Lost Symbols: A Discovery Trail

Sun 7 April, 1.30pm to 3.30pm starting at York Explore, Library Square.

Join our small group on a trail of discovery as we set forth to uncover the lost stories behind the carvings, figures and symbols on the streets of the ancient city of York.

This guided walk reveals a wealth of tales seldom told, of myth, of legend, of good and evil.  In the traces they have left behind we glimpse the lives of the people of this teeming city from the ancients to the present.

We will all meet in the Garden Room at Explore York Library to enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee with a delicious slice of cake.  This will give everyone a chance to meet each other and for the tutor to give a quick briefing.  The walk will then start and end at York Explore.

Booking details or more information please phone  01904  552806 or visit www.yortime.org.uk

Get involved

An opportunity to hear more about projects and initiatives in your ward and how you can get involved. 

For further information contact the Communities and Equalities Team on (01904) 551832, email shapingneighbourhoods@york.gov.uk or visit City of York Council website at http://www.york.gov.uk/info/200528/wards/220/wards/3 

Kickstart your game

City of York Council, in partnership with York City in the Community and benenden health, are arranging 9 sessions from Wednesday 10 April to Wednesday 5 June from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at York Sports Village.  The hour will be a fun coaching session and will include small sided (5 a side) games with guidance from Level Two coaches.

The first week will be a free taster session and then the next 8 weeks will cost £30.

Participants will also receive a free health check offered by York City’s Health and Wellbeing partner benenden health in partnership with the Nuffield Health York Hospital.

Limited places are available - to book your place contact Catriona Sudlow on 01904 553377 or email at catriona.sudlow@york.gov.uk

Pack a punch!

Boxing Taster Sessions

As part of International Women's Week, come along to one of our free boxing taster sessions to discover what inspired Nicola Adams to win gold at the London Olympics.

Explore York – Mon 4 Mar

11am to 1pm (Four 30 minute sessions)

Explore Acomb – Tuesday 5 March

10am to 12noon (Four 30 minute sessions)

No need to book, just call in!  For more information phone 01904 552651 or email: acomb.library@york.gov.uk

Let's hear it for the girls

Sun 3 Mar, 1pm to 2pm at Explore York Library Learning Centre

Discover who were the Women’s Land Army; what they did; and how their contribution to the war effort is recognised. Naomi will use archives and objects from the Yorkshire Museum, one of the largest WLA collections in the country, through an interactive session to explore and answer these questions.

To book a free place contact Explore York on 01904 552828 or exploreyork@york.gov.uk or book online through the Inspire website: www.feelinginspired.co.uk

Sympony for Spring

Listen to the chamber secrets

Loose women

Tue 5 Mar 12.30pm to 2pm at Explore York

Join some of York’s top women as they discuss current events in a Q&A session: Lesley Booth MBE, is head of York University’s Centre for Lifelong Learning, Sharon Whittington is Chaplain at York’s St. Leonard’s Hospice, Sonja Crisp has served as Labour Councillor for Holgate Ward since 2007 and is the Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture & Tourism and Julie Gunnell has been Labour Councillor for Micklegate Ward since 2007 and will be the new Lord Mayor in May 2013

Tickets are free with 10% off the café for that lunchtime, contact Explore York on 01904 552828 or email: exploreyork@york.gov.uk  to book your place.

Super circuits

Every Thursday starting 7 March at York Railway Institute, Main Sports Hall, 22 Queen Street, York

Come along and join Nikki for some circuits training. This involves several stations around the hall with different exercises, some resistance and some aerobic. You only spend a short time at each station so it’s varied and works all muscle groups.

Class suitable for most fitness levels as there are always lower and higher intensity options available.

Cost: £3.50 per session or £24 for 8 week course

To reserve your place or for further information please contact Fiona Barker on 01904 553377 or email: Fiona.barker@york.gov.uk  

Writing your story

Thu 7 Mar 2.30pm to 4pm at Dringhouses Library

Interested in getting into writing? An experienced writer but stuck for ideas? This friendly workshop led by published poet and novelist, Pauline Kirk (PJ Quinn) will help you develop your ‘story’, whether your own or family history.

Poets and prose writers, both newcomers and established, everyone will be welcome.

Contact Dringhouses Library to book and for further information 01904 552674 or email: dringhouses.library@york.gov.uk

Get ready for Le Tour!

Wed 13 Mar 10am to 1pm at Dunnington Sports Club, Common Road, Dunnington

If you or someone you know has never learned to ride a bike or not been on a bike for a number of years, then this training would be ideal. The sessions will be broken down into hourly slots, led by City of York cycle trainers who will provide friendly help and advice to get you in the saddle, no matter what your previous experience - anyone can learn!

Bikes can be provided.

Booking is essential - if you wish to attend or for further information please contact Sarah Prescott on 01904 553377 or email: sarah.prescott@york.gov.uk

The circus is coming to town..

Wed 13 to Sun 17 March

Opening Times:  WEEKDAYS - 5pm and 7.30pm

                             SATURDAY - 3pm and 7pm

                             SUNDAY - 1pm and 3pm

Expect the unexpected when Planet Circus arrive with spectacular daredevil acts which include The Amazing Motorcycling Thunderball Riders and the Globe of Death - Four Men, Four Motorcycles, one Globe of Death and spectacular daredevil stunts performed right before your very eyes which also includes Europe's youngest stunt rider, Peter Pavlov, aged 12!

There truly is something for everyone, Chico Rico direct from Billy Smarts Circus is Europe's prince of laughter, Chico, will have everyone joining in with his hysterical brand of comedy and fun. The Wheel of Death sees daredevil Honza, high in the roof of the big top, in a fantastic display of balance and skill 60 foot in the air and not forgetting Marco Polo - our crazy mexican highwire walking daredevil whose skill really has to be seen to be believed. All of this plus a sensational supporting cast of magic, crazy trampoline wrestlers, jugglers, aerialists, all your favourite cartoon characters and much much more.

This is an animal free circus brought to you by a young and dynamic family who themselves are third generation circus performers from one of the country's oldest established circus families. This is an exciting and adrenalin packed show which appeals to all the family.

So don't miss this opportunity for you and the ones you love to forget the credit crunch and all your worries for a short time and do what you always dreamed of - run away with the circus for 2 hours of spectacular entertainment and pure FUN !!!!!

Tel:  0756 3727206

A Corking Walking Opportunity!

Fri 15 Mar 9.30am to 4pm at West Offices, Station Rise, York

Volunteer Walk Leaders support the York Health Walks scheme, which is part of the national Walking for Health programme. Regular short walks start from twelve different locations in York and offer friendly and sociable walking groups led by volunteers. The walks attract a wide range of participants from all walks of life, who enjoy the regular outdoor exercise.  Walking is at a gentle pace, suitable for most abilities and ages.

The training day provides an introduction to leading walks and covers topics such as the health benefits of walking, keeping walkers motivated and how to plan a route. It is an informal day of training which also includes a demonstration health walk. Full support is provided once you’ve completed your training and the commitment required from volunteers is flexible and can usually be tailored to an individual’s availability.

If you wish to attend the training day or for further information please contact Sarah Prescott on

01904 553377 or email: sarah.prescott@york.gov.uk

Stories which bring York alive

Sat 16 Mar 12noon to 5pm, Sun 17 Mar 11am to 4pm and Mon 18 to 27 March normal York Explore opening times.

Through words, video, audio, music, poems and artwork, explore some of the 1000 stories collected for York Stories 2012 community project from people across York and beyond, which bring York alive.

On 16 and 17 March various rooms and spaces at York Explore will be transformed to showcase the wealth of stories submitted and collected throughout 2012 and York 800 celebrations.

Stories about York, its people and places were submitted throughout 2012 and collected through projects, workshops, training and events as part of the York Stories 2012 city wide programme involving over 50 groups, 25 artists, 50 volunteers and over 800 participants.

The exhibition created by York University student volunteers will also showcase artwork created by international artist Kane Cunningham.

The opening day of Saturday 16 March will also include the creation of a Storyweb in the children’s area for children and families and a live York Stories 2012 radio broadcast by Khaoz Media in the ICT room.

We are also asking people to bring along a small personal object which has its own story to tell which will be put inside the specially commissioned clay pot designed by artist Kane Cunningham which will be embedded into the City Walls for posterity after the exhibition.

So come along, bring your stories and an object which has a story to tell!

PLEASE NOTE: From Monday 18 to 24 March the exhibition will be restricted to York Explore foyer and main library area.

There is no age restriction and entry is free!

Visit: www.yorkstories2012.com or email: info@yorkstories2012.com