It started 150 years ago and it’s still going strong, unique and one of south east England’s top family-fun events.

The Hythe Venetian Fete is held every two years on a half-mile stretch of the Royal Military Canal with this year's Cinque Port town’s spectacular aquatic carnival taking place during the afternoon and evening of Wednesday, August 17.

Work is now taking place on the final stage of many months’ planning to accommodate and entertain an audience of thousands.

Organised by the not-for-profit Hythe Venetian Fete Society, the event will feature daylight and after-dark processions of floating tableaus, music and entertainment by live performers, children’s funfair and a grand fireworks display.

Gates will open at 4pm with entertainment, including canoe and raft races, starting at 5pm.

The daylight procession of decorated floats, headed by a ceremonial barge carrying the mayors of the historic Confederation of the Cinque Ports in full regalia and accompanied by water-borne bands, begins at 7pm and when dusk falls, the floats will be illuminated.

Details of seating plan, ticket prices and booking arrangements are posted on www.venetian-fete.com  and are also published in flyers available from a number of High Street shops and businesses and from Discover Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh literature pick-up points which include Folkestone’s Leas Cliff Hall and council offices and public libraries across the district.
 

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©