Libraries open their doors for Fun Palaces weekend
Posted on 20 Sep 2022
Free activities and fun events throughout Devon and Torbay.
Libraries throughout Devon and Torbay will be bursting with free community events on September 30th, October 1st and 2nd.
The annual Fun Palaces extravaganza sees library buildings used by members of local communities to share their passions and interests with others, so everyone can have a go and experience something new. This year’s line-up will include pyrography, DJ’ing, rope making, creative writing, lyric/song writing, family history and gardening.
Fun Palaces is a free, nationwide campaign for culture at the heart of every community.
Sadie Green, Fun Palaces Ambassador for Devon, said: “Throwing open the Fun Palace doors at libraries allows the communities to effectively take them over. They can share their passions and interests with others, and anyone can come along and have a go for free. Libraries Unlimited is committed to making these buildings whatever local community members want them to be for those two days.”
Alex Kittow, Chief Executive of Libraries Unlimited, the charity which runs the 54 libraries across Devon and Torbay, said: “It’s a great way for families and friends to get out and do something creative together. The aim is on connecting, learning and having fun. We hope people enjoy showing off their skills and knowledge as much as others enjoy finding out about something new.”
“We’ve loved throwing open our doors again after the pandemic and watching our libraries turn once again into vibrant, busy community hubs. Fun Palaces are another fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy our spaces and meet old and new friends.”
All the events across the Fun Palaces Weekend of Celebration are FREE with the emphasis on hands-on having a go. They’re for adults and children and there’s no need to book in most cases (but check with your local library).
Each Fun Palace sees local people run demonstrations and workshops using their hobby or skill as a basis. This year with be the ninth Fun Palaces event, and the action-packed weekend includes:
- Family history, creative writing, and relaxation at Ivybridge Library
- Tai chi, henna painting and ukulele playing at Barnstaple Library
- Chess club, dancing and a comic drawing workshop at Newton Abbot Library
- Zumba, clay play and Dungeons & Dragons at Tavistock Library
- Japanese storytelling, colouring club and origami boxes at Sidmouth Library
- Crafts, yoga and crochet at Torrington Library
…and so much more!
A full list of events throughout Devon and Torbay can be found by visiting the Fun Palaces website at funpalaces.co.uk where you can search for activities closest to you.