Top metalworkers from around the world will be flocking to Exeter for the Westcountry's first gathering of the global blacksmith community in over 30 years.
The long wait will come to an end on Wednesday, August 13, when the International Blacksmiths Festival is held at Westpoint Exeter until Saturday, August 16.
An exciting comeback for international blacksmithing talent, this event will showcase the best of the craft from around the world. The festival will be a celebration of the ancient tradition's historic roots and its importance in today's society.
Enticing not only those well-versed in the trade, but also novices, students, and holidaymakers, the festival promises something for everyone.
Some of the world's finest blacksmiths and metalworkers will attend to show off their skill, as well as influential artists showcasing their work. Confirmed metalworking highlights include Uri Hofi all the way from Israel, Brian Brazeal and the Young Smiths team of the USA, Owen Bush and Mick Maxen's iron smelt, Hector Cole's medieval forging, Ron Philips' aluminium casting, Ian Thackaray's Iron Age forging, plus many more.
Activities include interactive adult and children's forging sessions and master classes with one-on-one teaching from blacksmith and metalworking experts.
Visitors will also be able to browse local trade and produce stands, see dazzling circus acts, sing along with sea shanties – Mariners Away, watch the Exeter Morris Men, get caught up in medieval re-enactments or just relax and enjoy traditional live music.
As well as archery and traditional funfair games for families, attractions will include chef John Burton-Race whisking up a storm in the demo kitchen, as well as West Country Falconry.
The festival will also offer students of the trade the opportunity to enter a competition to have their work displayed. An international team competition will also see entries compete to feature as eight creative panels around Westpoint Exeter itself.
Merv Allen, blacksmith and organiser of the International Blacksmiths Festival, said: "This is an exciting milestone for blacksmithing, not only in the South West, but internationally.
"The festival is all about bringing together some of the incredible talent from around the world and showing people that blacksmithing isn't something of the past, it is an art form that has a huge part to play in today's society.
"We are really looking forward to appearing at Westpoint Exeter, right at the heart of the South West community."
Tickets are £15 for one day's entry or £45 for all four days with additional camping available. Under-16s are free when accompanied by a paying adult. VIP passes are also available which include all day passes, inclusive camping, six masterclass sessions, free entry to the evening 'Hoolie' and a hog roast.
A donation from ticket sales will also be gifted to local charities. More information can be found at www.westpointexeter.co.uk.
