Things to do in 2017
WITH the glittering lights and colourful decorations removed and the excitement of Christmas a distant memory, January can feel a little bit underwhelming. However, Hinckley is already gearing up for a series of exciting events for 2017, with the town fast becoming an exciting venue for fun for all the family. First up this year will be an event for all, as the Concordia Theatre once again brings joy and laughter with its annual pantomime. The classic tale of the Frog Prince will be given a twist as the theatre tells a new story of two very different Kingdoms. The show runs from January 11 until February 4, with tickets available on the Concordia website.
Other shows at the Concordia this year include A Night of Orbison, in February, the musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels in February, and the Tinhatters’ return with Titanic in March.
Next up is an event for all blushing brides-to-be, as the
Hinckley Wedding Fair takes place on Saturday February 18.
Featuring displays from some of the finest photographers, dress makers and entertainers, the event at The Atkins Building is a must for anyone looking to get married.
Also in February will be the popular annual Hinckley pan
cake race, which takes place on Shrove Tuesday February 28.
The event is held outside Clarks on Castle St and finishes outside the Britannia Centre. All ages and capabilities are welcome, and there are trophies to be won, as well as a medal for every entrant.
If you are feeling a little braver, you could crossing the A5 border to watch the Atherstone
Ball Game on Shrove Tuesday afternoon - but stand back and enjoy from a distance!
The historic annual event may have been played for more than 800 years, but it is essentially a punch-up, with a ball. It is played along Watling Street, which is the old course of the A5.
The game lasts for two hours and whoever is holding the ball at the end is the winner. Beware, this is the only rule - even the local police stand back and let things happen!
If you are looking for a New Year challenge then the Bosworth Half Marathon returns
on Sunday May 14.
Supporting the Keep the Beat charity, runners follow a course that takes in some lovely Leicestershire scenery around the historic town of Market Bosworth.
For those looking to travel in a rainbow of colour (and at a slower pace) the LOROS Colourfun Mile will be held on June 7 from Hinckley’s Station Road.
The annual favourite includes a five-mile charity run through the streets of Hinckley, which are closed to traffic during the run.
However, you do not have to be super fit to take part, and you can run, walk, skip, crawl or dance the distance.
Volunteers at a number of colour stations spread throughout the course will throw powder over you as you pass. Click on to the Loros website for more details.
Meanwhile, the roaring laughter and excitement of the
Soap Box Derby is set to return to the town’s high street in early July.
Last year a record number of homemade vehicles hurtled down Castle Street for the race, including a Batmobile.
There was the new addition of a jump to this year’s track for any racers feeling brave enough to take to the sky to shave off a few seconds. Contact Hinckley BID for more information or details on how to enter.
If building your own car seems a bit too much like hard work, then why not enjoy a leisurely walk through one of the many parks near Hinckley.
From the award-winning Hollycroft Park to the popular canals and the beautiful Bosworth Country Park, there are plenty of places to go for a stroll.
Local historians will also enjoy a visit to Bosworth Bat
tlefield, the Richard III centre and Leicester Cathedral.
The battlefield centre is a family favourite and has plenty of pretty walks nearby for a summer’s day picnic.
The exhibition centre has always been popular and there is also the Tithe Barn Restaurant and shop as well.
The attraction is currently the third most popular place to visit in Leicestershire according to Trip Advisor.
Many events are held at the venue including battle reenactments during the summer. Check out their website for more details.
A little further away is Leices-