People are being invited to historic Driffield Canal to join in the fun and games of a spectacular to celebrate the 250-year-old waterway. Live music, boat trips and a duck race, will be just part of Driffield Navigation Gala on Saturday, August 3, from 11am to 7.30pm. Driffield Navigation Trust is organising the event at picturesque Riverhead, in the town, and it is being supported by Driffield Town Council.
The canal played an important role in the development of the town and wider area, and is an iconic feature of East Yorkshire’s rich landscape and history.
The trust organised a two-day festival at Riverhead in 2023, which also helped to mark Yorkshire Day, but have gone for a one-day fundraiser this year. David Taylor, a canal commissioner, said: “The festival proved to be very popular with residents and visitors alike, so we decided to organise another event this year.
“Although it will be held on one day, there will be some excellent entertainment as well as the usual water-based activities, like boat trips to Town Lock and back, pedalos, a duck race with cash prizes, and a kids bouncy Disco Dome. “The trust is keen for people to get involved with the canal by coming along to the gala to see what is going on and have some fun and games.”
Live music will be provided The Sonics Rock & Roll Band, who were a big hit at the trust’s Bonfire Night celebration, and the Gaslight Dixieland Jazz Band, who are making a return appearance to the Riverhead event. Driffield Navigation Trust is a charity that relies on fundraising and every penny it makes at the canal gala will be spent on maintenance and improvements.
Mr Taylor added: “The canal is a wonderful asset for Driffield and the wider East Riding area. A fully navigable Driffield Canal would bring an increase in tourism and boost the local economy, so we hope people will support the Navigation Gala.”
The gala will also include refeshments with a licensed bar, barbecue with vegan options, tea and coffee stall, and an ice cream stall.
Find us at Riverhead, Driffield YO25 6NW
