A Day of Music, Fun, Heritage, and Community Spirit at Middle Row Market and Proms in the Park
On Saturday 14 September, Dunstable was filled with celebration, culture, and community spirit as Middle Row Market and Proms in the Park took place to create a memorable event for all ages.
The day kicked off with the Middle Row Market, which took place in the heart of Dunstable celebrating Heritage Open Days, blending history, live performances, and entertainment into a truly special occasion.
The market featured a delightful array of craft and food stalls, where local artisans and vendors showcased their handmade goods, traditional crafts, and delicious foods. Attendees had the chance to explore unique products and sample a variety of tasty treats, adding to the vibrant market atmosphere.
Dunstable U3A, celebrating their 25th anniversary captivating visitors with their line dancing performance on The Square.
Visitors were also treated to medieval music, performed live throughout the day, which transported them back in time to the town’s rich historical roots. To enhance the historical theme, the event offered a World War II obstacle course, traditional games, roman crafts, which proved to be a hit with children and families.
As the sun began to set, the focus shifted to Priory Gardens, where an unforgettable evening of live broadcast of the Last Night of the Proms took place. The event opened with a performance from the Dunstable Town Band, whose renditions of beloved classics and proms anthems set the tone for the evening’s celebration.
The historic Priory Church was beautifully illuminated in vibrant lights, creating a breathtaking visual display. The glowing backdrop of the church, combined with the sounds of live music, made for a truly magical atmosphere.
One of the standout moments of the night was a stunning performance by Fiona Harrison – A Voice in a Million. Known for her powerful voice and captivating stage presence, Fiona’s renditions of timeless classics left the audience spellbound. Her performance was a true highlight, adding a layer of sophistication and elegance to the event.
The evening ended with an unforgettable firework finale, that lit up the night sky above Priory Gardens, perfectly timed to music. The firework display and flames, provided a spectacular conclusion to a magical evening.
Liz Jones, Chair of the Community Services Committee, commented on the success of the event:
“Middle Row Market and Proms in the Park truly showcased the spirit of Dunstable. The market’s celebration of our rich heritage, combined with the wonderful performances in Priory Gardens, brought our community together in a special way. It was fantastic to see so many families enjoying the activities during the day and then coming together for an unforgettable evening of music and fireworks. We’re proud to be part of such a vibrant, connected community.”
Photography credit: Photography Passion JT
John Chatterley
Dunstable Town Council