On Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October, the BedPop Fun Palaces are returning to Bedford, bringing a marvellous mash-up of art, science and culture to eight town-centre venues. 

Fun Palaces is an international initiative to encourage hands-on engagement in art, science and culture. On the first weekend of October, hundreds of Fun Palaces will simultaneously pop up in venues all over the world – including Bedford - offering free activities to people of all ages.

“After the success of last year’s BedPop Fun Palaces we’re really excited to have added new venues and some truly amazing activities,” said BedPop director, Erica Roffe.  “This year we have a floating Fun Palace hosted by artist Anne-Marie Stijelia on the John Bunyan Community Boat, demonstrations of the Enigma machine at Bedford Central Library and an entire venue dedicated to Engineering at St Cuthbert’s Hall.  We’re thrilled that Fun Palaces will be the first events to take place in the newly renovated Basement at the John Bunyan Museum.” 

Other activities include an incredible immersive theatre experience at the Higgins Bedford, animation workshops, indoor clouds, graffiti workshops, cross stitch hangouts plus Bloodhound rocket cars.  The full programme will be launched in mid-September and events can be viewed and booked through www.eventbrite.co.uk by searching for BedPop Fun Palaces events.  More info can be found at bedpop.co.uk too.

“Thanks to our sponsors and Arts Council funding we’re able to offer even more events for free this year,” said Erica.  “The success of last year’s Fun Palaces event drew families into Bedford town centre to discover their inner talents. With lots more to take part in, we’re certain to inspire even more of Bedford’s budding artists and scientists.