Street Festival is back bigger and better than last year

A parade of dancers, musicians and people wearing weird and wonderful outfits filled the streets on Saturday to mark the launch of the event.

Starting from the Sunken Garden and finishing at Market Square, festival-goers waved flags and showcased bold, colourful costumes they had created.

Organiser Dominique Ogier said a few changes had been made to make the event bigger and better than last year, with more than 50 artists scheduled to be showcasing their talents across the streets of Town.

‘Things have been going a lot smoother and there is no lull after the parade.

‘We have Le Petit Train for the first time, merchandise for sale, and 20 newbies performing this year – we have a lot of new acts.’

She said organisers were always grateful for the level of support they received from the public.

‘There is something around every corner. We are really pleased with how it turned out.’

New gazebos for all performers ensures any rain will not mean performances being cancelled.

‘In such a hot summer it is perfect and it means there is no need to cancel if it rains and no one has to miss out – it is all experience for new artists.’

Various retailers in Town have special discounts and deals on offer to promote the event, including The Streat.

Edna McGahy, 8, had made a whole-body carnival mask, in keeping with the theme of this year’s festival.

‘We always get involved. It’s a great thing to do with the kids in the holidays,’ said dad Paul McGahy.

The entertainment and activities kicked off straight away with a performance from the Big Band Collective, followed by a session of games and temporary tattoos with the character actors and a fancy dress competition in Creasey’s toy store.

Singer Lily Becker was getting involved with the festival for the first time.

‘It’s a great opportunity – I’ve got a slot pretty much every day. It is so much fun,’ she said.