Gymnastics group Acromax entertain the crowd.

Garden of Cultural Delights returns on Sunday

After a break of two years the Garden Full of Cultural Delights makes a welcome return to its usual setting of St Leonards Gardens on Sunday 7 August, reflecting the diversity of our local community. On offer will be food from around the world, music and other entertainment, and stalls highlighting issues of the moment, as John Enefer describes.

The popular event began in 2010 and was staged every summer until the pandemic forced its suspension in 2020. Held in the beautiful setting of St Leonards Gardens, it traditionally provides treats for the ears and taste buds with music, dance and movement, as well as exotic food.

Graceful movement from the Chinese Dancers.

This year will be no different with a breadth of performances in prospect. Local gymnastics group Acromax will once more bring their spectacular display to the Gardens, while movement of a different kind will be provided by the Chinese Dancers, whose graceful gyrations have been a feature of the Garden of Delights since it began.

Another mainstay of the event, Gizmo, will bring their youthful energy to the stage, while the Tornado Twirl-Stars – armed with batons and flags – will make their debut at the event.

Music will come courtesy of the Amber Leafe band which, in their own words, specialises in ‘world music with original twists.’ The Twin Arts Barn Dance Band will bring a Celtic feel to the event, while Paul Crimmin will provide an acoustic flavour.

Sister Suzie, fresh from wowing the crowd at the Red Rooster festival, will bring her combustible brand of rhythm and blues to the usually placid Gardens, in what is set to be one of the day’s highlights.

The event is organised by the Hastings and Rother Interfaith Forum, who acknowledge the generous funding of the Foreshore Trust in making the occasion possible.

The event kicks off at 1.00pm on Sunday 7 August in St Leonards Gardens, which are situated in Maze Hill, behind the Royal Victoria Hotel. As well as food and refreshments, there will be activities for children, stalls and a raffle. Admission is free and people can bring a picnic if they wish.

For more information call 07512009281.

Also in: Festivals