Colors of Norwich - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Norwich is one of the most amazing cities in England. The history of the city has more than 2,000 years. Today, travelers know it for its unique medieval attractions. Norwich is also attractive with a rich cultural program and interesting holidays. One of the most original on its calendar is the Dragon Festival celebrated in mid-December. This 15-day festival is one of the youngest in the city.

For Norwich, the dragon is an important heraldic symbol, which was first used in the Middle Ages. Today, dragon images can be seen on many historical attributes presented in local museums and cultural centers. Such an unusual symbol appeared in the Middle Ages not by chance. Hundreds of years ago, local residents considered Saint George to be their patron. The saint striking a dragon was depicted on many coats of arms and emblems, and this symbolism led to the emergence of a new historical symbol.

A few years ago, representatives of Norwich cultural societies decided to organize a holiday dedicated to the city's historical traditions. From the first years, the dragon festival became one of the largest and most exciting holidays in the region. The festival program is very diverse, involving interesting entertainment for everyone. Every day, musical and dance performances take place in the city, and local creative groups organize shows right on the city streets and squares. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Many special tours are organized during the festival. Many historical monuments preserved in the city are associated with interesting legends and stories that make tours even more exciting. Much of the entertainment program is aimed at children. They can enjoy puppet shows, children's films in cinemas, and a variety of creative workshops. According to one of the festival's traditions, the city streets and squares are decorated with thematic stands for the period of the event. They perform not only a decorative but also an informational function. Against the background of some stands, you can take some spectacular memorable photos. If you can't visit Norwich during the colorful festival, you can still diversify your vacation with other interesting entertainment. Facades and roofs of many historic buildings are still adorned with images and sculptures of dragons, the search for which becomes an exciting adventure for tourists.

Norwich is the permanent venue for a major arts festival, which is held annually and is called the Norfolk & Norwich Festival. This festival first held in 1824 is one of the oldest for England. The very first official mention of similar festivals held in the city dates back to an even earlier period - 1772. The music festival was created as a way to raise funds for the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital located in the city. Classical musicians and conductors took part in it, all the funds raised were redirected to the hospital.

Until recently, the festival program consisted exclusively of classical music concerts, but several years ago, entertainment events became more diverse. As before, classical music performers take part in the festival, along with modern musicians and dance groups. Apart from that, the festival program is complemented by circus performances, children's activities, and art exhibitions.

Over the past few years, the festival held in May has acquired the status of one of the largest international cultural events of its kind. Its program is so extensive and the number of participants is so great that it is not limited to just Norwich. Other towns in Norfolk County take an active part in the festival, but Norwich still remains the venue for major cultural events. Many concerts and other cultural events are held on the grounds of historic monuments, including city cathedrals, which makes the festival program even more interesting. Despite the fact that the festival has been held for more than 200 years, it has acquired the official status only in 1986. Like many years ago, charity is essential for the festival, but most of its program is still free of charge.