September 23rd witnessed the Great St Helens Potato Festival. This unique event brought together local growers, food enthusiasts, artists, a string quartet, and community members to celebrate the humble spud in delightful and unexpected ways.
Three months prior, the Arts in Libraries team had distributed seed spuds to local people and organisations. People read specially-written potato poems as they planted them, and then Mother Nature worked her magic. At the festival, the crop of carbohydrate bombs was transformed by Café Laziz and the World of Glass Café into a feast of international potato dishes, reflecting the diverse cultures of our community.
But the celebration was about more than food: The Pink Fir Apple Writers shared poetry and prose inspired by the humble tuber - stories of growth, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing meals. Their words reminded us how food can connect us, fostering a sense of belonging, friendship and family.
The Mucky Mountain Morris Dances premiered their brand new Potato Dance.
Local artist David Bixter showcased his self-invented, half-art, half-science potato marimba. Festival attendees performed a mash-up of different music styles on the wired-up Cara, Desiree and King Edwards - the world's first potato Glockenspiel.
Alison from the Arts in Libraries Team chipped in by hosting a cyanotype workshop, inviting participants to create beautiful prints using potato leaves.
We gave away "Positive Potatoes" crafted by our Knit and Natter groups. These cute creations were offered out to festival-goers, spreading joy and connection throughout the event. Each potato came with a positive message, reminding us of the power of kindness and community support.
The St Helens Great Potato Festival was more than just an event; it was a testament to how growing food, and creating art can bring us all together.
If you want to get planting or writing or anything for our next Spud-fest, contact us.
Image Gallery
Image Gallery
Quartet PF (C) Alison Patterson (2)
Quartet PF (C) Alison Patterson (2)
Watch our short video to see how the potatoe festival began ....
