Across York this weekend there are picnics and parties in the park as the city joins The Great Get Together.
This national initiative commemorates the first anniversary of Jo Cox, the MP who was tragically killed on June 16 last year.
In her maiden parliamentary speech, Jo said:
We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us
That’s the quote that inspired The Great Get Together. A neighbourhood celebration independent of politics or religion, it aims to boost community spirit and unity.
Jo’s husband, Brendan Cox, said: “These events were inspired by Jo and mark her anniversary, but I hope they play a wider role in bringing us closer together. I also hope they are fun, full of energy and laughter. That’s what Jo would have wanted.”
There’s plenty going on in York for the celebrations – take your pick and get involved.
What’s on where
Clifton Community Picnic
There’s also a community picnic in Homestead Park in Clifton.
People are encouraged to bring along their own picnic and get involved with the activity and games going on, along with donating prizes for the events.
Event organiser Anna Perrett said “This will be a great opportunity to feel more connected to your neighbours and Homestead Park itself is a gorgeous spot for a picnic – one of York’s many hidden gems”.
Tea In The Park and Community Jam
Rowntree Park is playing host to a picnic, with a community tea table for people to bring along their own cake contributions, homemade or shop-bought.
In addition to this, there’s also a community jam session, where people are encouraged to bring along acoustic instruments and make music together.
If that wasn’t enough, there’s also going to be a book swap, where everyone can exchange books and find their new favourite.
Picnic In The Park
Glen Gardens will host a community picnic, with a kiosk selling drinks, cakes and biscuits, the proceeds of which will be donated to the Jo Cox charity.
People are also encouraged to bring along their own picnic rugs, food and friends. All are invited!
The Great Get Together Book Swap
Cafe W, Waterstones, 15 Coney Street, York, YO1 9QL
Friday June 16th 8:30am – Sunday June 18th 5pm
Café W, inside Coney Street Waterstones, is holding a book swap with the aim of uniting the community through “our shared loved of reading”.
The event runs all weekend, from Friday morning until late Sunday afternoon, so head on down and swap a book or two.
Similarly to Glen Gardens Park, The Acomb Collective will be holding an afternoon of picnics and games on Acomb Green.
Everyone is invited to bring their own snacks and games along for an afternoon of community fun on the green.
Pot-Luck Afternoon Tea
Naburn village is hosting an afternoon tea, bringing together the community through delicious food and great company.
It’s important to remember to book a ticket for this one – £3 per person or free for 10 year olds and under. Adults are also requested to contribute to the afternoon tea.
Bingo Night with Pea and Pie Supper
The Foxwood Community Centre will be running a bingo night, along with providing a pie and pea supper, described as “an event to celebrate the importance of the community and the people who live and work in it”.
Whilst this night is free, you’ll need to collect a ticket from the centre office due to limited numbers. Unfortunately due to the cash prize bingo, this event is limited to those aged 18 and over.