York’s 50+ Festival is all about connection, creativity and ageing well.
The York 50+ Festival, sponsored by Clifton Park Hospital and arranged by York Older People’s Assembly (YOPA) and Age UK York, is delighted to return for its 21st year. A celebration of York’s vibrant community, the festival shines a spotlight on the energy, creativity and invaluable contributions of older people, and offers an opportunity to celebrate connection, inspiration and ageing well in later life. From exercise classes and ballet to walking rugby, Tai Chi and chair yoga, there’s something for everyone during the two-week event, which is unique in York. The programme also features friendship lunches, historic pub walks, conservation activities, hearing impairment advice, brain health sessions and games – providing plenty of opportunities to get active, try something new, meet others and have fun. With more than 80 exciting events taking place over 150 sessions, we can’t wait to share the celebrations with the local community.
New events this year include Beat the Boat, a partnership with Age UK York and City Cruises, which sees runners over the age of 50 race against a City Cruises boat as it sails along the scenic River Ouse. There’s a choice of running or spectating from the boat and cheering on the participants, with all proceeds going to Age UK York.
An information fair takes place at the York Theatre Royal on 6 October, bringing together a range of local organisations offering information, professional advice and support on services and opportunities available in the community and, falling on the same day as International Day of Older People, on 1 October, YOPA celebrates the legacy of Bob Towner with an inaugural memorial lecture by Professor Alan Walker CBE called ‘The Long Struggle for Dignity in Old Age: Where Next?’, taking place at York St John University.
Friendship lunches have been launched this year, taking place as part of the York Food and Drink Festival at The Chopping Block, Walmgate. A special two-course lunch for just £15 is taking place on 24 September, 8 October and 15 October, and encourages those who would like to meet others in a supportive environment.
All ages are welcome to the city centre parade on Saturday 3 October, with entertainment in St Helen’s Square. Bring along a hat and join the Mad Hatters parade as it leaves York Theatre Royal at 1.00pm!
The festival takes place in and around the city of York between 1 – 18 October. For more information, including a list of activities, please visit york50plusfestival.wixsite.com/york50plusfestival. Copies of printed events programmes can also be collected from Age UK York charity shops.
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