Out and about

2012 Open Weekend, 24th-26th July 2009

As part of the 'London 2012' Open Weekend, there will be a range of exciting events taking place across Cambridgeshire including: archaeology days, summer recitals, sports workshops and a re-enactment of the 1908 Olympics!

With only three years to go before the London 2012 Olympics, the Open Weekend enables everyone to share in the excitement of the Games, be inspired, get involved, unleash creativity and try something new!

The aim of the weekend is to showcase excellence in the performing arts and creative industries as well as sport, and it's all part of the Cultural Olympiad which puts culture at the heart of the Games.

Seb Coe with school children

London 2012 Chairman Sebastian Coe says: "We've always been clear that London 2012 is more than sport, it's a Games for the Nation and accessible to everyone. We created Open Weekend to enable people to share in the countdown celebrations towards London 2012 but also be inspired by the Games to discover new interests and develop their talents."

What's on in Cambridgeshire

There's loads happening in the county, from sport to music and art to archaeology. Here are just some of the highlights:

Open Up and Step Up:
Saturday 25th July, 10am - 2pm (Cambridge Corn Exchange) 3pm - 5pm (Parker's Piece): A day of free sports and arts activities with taster sessions in martial arts, dance, singing and stage fighting at the Corn Exchange and a re-enactment of races from the 1908 Olympics down on Parker's Piece. All events are free and there is no need to book in advance.

Capoeira in action in Cambridge

Transfomers on the Bandstand:
Saturday 25th July, 1pm - 4pm, Ely Bandstand, Jubilee Gardens, Ely: The Garage Youth Theatre and Fenland Jam come together to showcase their work.

Jazz with Edward Niebia and Briliantisimo:
Saturday 25th July, 7.30pm (Grounds open at 5.30pm for picnics), Childerley Hall, Dry Drayton: Catch one of the world's great flamenco jazz guitar virtuosos in concert with his acclaimed quartet. Tickets from £18 - £25, to book call the Corn Exchange Box Office 01223 357 851.

Aurora Orchestra Children's Workshop and Family Concert:
Saturday 25th July, 1.30pm (workshop), 4.30pm (concert), Whittlesey Youth and Community Centre: 'Boom Town' has parts for children and learning activities incorporated into the score. Featuring pirates, robots, a farmyard, pancakes and a trombone playing duck it will showcase orchestral instruments and give opportunities to be part of the performance! Tickets: £5, children free. Available on the door, or reserve in advance from Tourist Information Centre on 01945 583263.

Sport in the Park:
Sunday 26th July, 11am - 4pm, Milton Country Park: Try your hand at a range of sports from golf to trampolining. Plus demonstrations from local sports clubs, a health tent, a climbing wall and mini orienteering. This event is free and no booking is required.

Archaeology Day:
Sunday 26th July, 11am - 4pm, Wimpole Estate: Discover the hidden past in a day devoted to archaeology, with a live dig, basketmaking, beekeeper, children's test pit, firelighting without matches, Tudor cooking over an open fire, exhibits and much more! Garden admission £3.70.

With so much happening, why not take this opportunity to get involved and try something new, inspired by London 2012? The countdown to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 starts here...