Success! The First Ever U3a Festival Exceeds Expectations!
The launch of the firs ever U3a Festival
Photo: u3a/Peter Alvey
The first ever u3a festival of learning, activity and fun took place last week at the The University of York.
The mass gathering of u3a members who attended the event came from groups based all over the country. The aim of u3a has always been to unite individuals and provide opportunities to establish new connections and immerse themselves in an array of fascinating subjects, skills, and activities. The festival cemented this ethos.
The superb venue really was the cat's whiskers when it came to the wide range of facilities that were needed and the u3a members who organised and volunteered at the event truly were top-notch. The organisation of this massive event was superb and the over 100 activities available included: Environment and Climate Change, Gardening and Wildlife with the RHS, Laughter Yoga, Juke Box Jury, Country Dancing, Jewellery Making, TaiChi, QiDong, Walking Cricket, Walking Football, Pickleball and Astronomy, to name but a few. This has been a largely member-led festival, with members choosing and leading the workshops and activities.
The official opening was officiated by Diana Moran B.E.M, AKA 'The Green Goddess' who, along with the Lord Mayor of York, Margaret Wells, cut the ribbon and said a few words. It was a pleasure to have their company on such a joyful and special day.
I am proud to be a u3a member… we’re a vibrant organisation providing socialisation, stimulation and many activities.
Speaking afterwards, Diana Moran
Margaret Fiddes, Trustee for Yorkshire and the Humber, and one of the festival organisers said:
"I want to say thank you to everybody who has had a hand in the festival. It has been so great to see so many members enjoying the activities and having such a great time."
Allan Walmsley, National u3a Vice Chair, and one of the organisers said:
"York University has been a marvellous campus, we have used about 15 venues within the campus for the festival activities. The u3a volunteers and the university staff have been exceptional"
People can find out more information and join u3a by logging on to their website at www.u3a.org.uk