The enchanting Festival of the Moon has concluded its three-week lunar extravaganza, leaving visitors spellbound with over 100 celestial-themed events that illuminated the town. Organised by Newbury Business Improvement District (BID), the not-for-profit organisation behind Visit Newbury, the Festival of the Moon has captured the hearts of both locals and visitors alike, drawing tens of thousands of attendees from near and far.

Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon art installation provided the festival’s centrepiece, an awe-inspiring installation featuring a breathtakingly detailed six-meter-wide replica of the moon, displayed in the Corn Exchange auditorium to the backdrop of absorbing ambience arranged by BAFTA-winning composer Dan Jones.

Throughout the Festival of the Moon, participants had the opportunity to engage in a wide variety of captivating experiences and events that celebrated the enigmatic allure and scientific wonder of the moon.

Under the guidance of the Newbury Astronomical Society, attendees were treated to the awe-inspiring experience of moon gazing at Kennet Shopping Centre’s car park rooftop. Telescopes and binoculars were provided, allowing visitors to observe the moon in all its celestial glory.

Donnington Castle provided the perfect backdrop for a holistic experience as participants engaged in 108 Salutations and enjoyed a delectable Cacao festival amid the castle’s timeless ambiance. It was a fusion of mind, body, and lunar spirit.

The Parkway Shopping Centre became a hub of lunar knowledge, hosting a Moon School session that educated and inspired participants of all ages about our nearest celestial neighbour.

Dr Chris Pearson’s insightful talk on the “Life of an Atom” delved deep into the microscopic world of atoms, drawing intriguing connections between the microcosm and the macrocosm. It was an exploration of the fundamental building blocks of existence.

Themed shop and pub trails invited visitors to embark on delightful journeys down Newbury’s historic town centre, stopping by themed local retail and hospitality venues for the chance to win prizes donated by local businesses.

The Average Scientist delivered a series of enthralling talks that took attendees on a journey through the cosmos. These talks unravelled the mysteries of Earth’s celestial companion, the moon, and brought the wonders of space closer to home.

With over 100 events taking place over the three week period, other highlights have included an evening gin cruise along the Kennet & Avon canal, yoga and mindfulness sessions, talks on the history of the moon in Islamic culture, roller discos, live music, paddleboarding and much more.

“We created this festival as an immediate response to the cost of living crisis, and we are so delighted to have had such a fantastic response from the public, and for so many of Newbury’s businesses and artists for getting involved.” says Alison Drummond, Operations Manager at Newbury BID.

“We wanted to create something unique and one of a kind, providing a huge range of activities and events to allow as many people as possible to benefit from all of the moon-related excitement. The variety of different moon-themed events on the programme, and the fact we had over 100 events organised, perfectly demonstrates the spirit of partnership and community bonds here in Newbury”.

These remarkable events, among many others, transformed Newbury into a hub of lunar exploration, uniting the community in a celebration of science, culture, and wonder.

As the Festival of the Moon draws to a close, Newbury looks forward to its upcoming events. Visit Newbury invites you to join in the fun at the Halloween Spooktacular and Newbury’s Christmas Light Switch-On Launch. Keep an eye on www.visitnewbury.co.uk for the latest updates and exciting announcements.

The Festival of the Moon has been a shining example of how art, science, and community can come together to create a memorable and educational experience. Newbury BID extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants, event organisers, and attendees who made this celestial celebration a resounding success.