Families are being invited to experience the sights, sounds and uplifting spirit of Yorkshire’s mining heritage this Yorkshire Day, as the National Coal Mining Museum hosts a free grand gala celebration inspired by the much-loved Miners’ Welfare Galas cherished by coalfield communities.

Taking place on Saturday, August 1, the museum will host a vibrant celebration of Yorkshire culture, and of miners welfares, recreating the atmosphere of the legendary galas that were a highlight of the summer calendar across the county’s mining communities.

Visitors can expect an action packed day of entertainment, activities and traditional Yorkshire hospitality in what promises to be one of the Museum’s most exciting Yorkshire Day events yet.

From the stirring sounds of live brass bands to dazzling family performances, Yorkshire themed crafts and sports activities, the day will capture the pride, camaraderie and variety that made activities supported by miners’ welfares such an important part of life.

Families are being invited to experience the sights, sounds and uplifting spirit of Yorkshire’s mining heritage this Yorkshire Day.

placeholder image — Families are being invited to experience the sights, sounds and uplifting spirit of Yorkshire’s mining heritage this Yorkshire Day.

Visitors of all ages will have the chance to get involved in free creative activities, including making Yorkshire roses, while sports day-style games, exhibitions, displays, talks and stalls will ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Adding to the festivities, people can test their skills with circus workshops and learn more about allotment growing traditions. Joining in with the fun will be the Hepworth Wakefield, with their garden play activity.

Disability Sport Yorkshire will also be joining the celebrations with a range of accessible sporting activities, including Boccia and Archery, highlighting the important role the miners’ welfare movement played in supporting rehabilitation and wellbeing through sport for disabled miners.

Castleford Tigers Foundation will also be there, with free rugby skills training, information about their accessible offer and displays celebrating the historic links between mining, miners welfares and rugby league.

Food will be at the heart of the celebration, just as it was at the traditional miners’ galas. Visitors will be able to sample a delicious range of Yorkshire food and drink, making it the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything that makes God’s Own County so special.

The event forms part of Welfares Reimagined, a partnership project between the National Coal Mining Museum for England, CISWO, the Miners’ Welfare Charity, Spectrum People, Creative Minds and the Creative Health Hub at the University of Huddersfield. Project partners are supporting the event, where visitors will be able to find out more about this two year project and how they can contribute.

The project is funded by the Museums Association’s Esmée Fairbairn Communities and Collections Fund and explores the lasting legacy of miners’ welfare and its continuing relevance to communities today.

Lynn Dunning, CEO, National Coal Mining Museum said: "Miners’ Galas were once the highlight of the summer, bringing communities together to celebrate, socialise and enjoy some well-earned fun.

"Yorkshire Day felt like the perfect opportunity for the Museum to revive this much-loved tradition and shine a spotlight on everything that makes Yorkshire such a special place.

"We are particularly delighted to be working with community partners on putting on this event. Their involvement reflects the important legacy of the miners’ welfare movement, which supported mining communities in so many ways, including health, wellbeing and rehabilitation through sport.

"This will be a day filled with celebration, connection and genuine Yorkshire pride. Whether visitors come for the music, the activities, the food or simply to enjoy the atmosphere, we hope everyone leaves with a deeper appreciation of Yorkshire’s rich heritage and the enduring community spirit that continues to define it today."

“There will also be all the usual fun including horsekeeper talks, Time Tunnel and Caphouse tours, led by former miners, trails, fun at the beach plus much more! It is free entry with donations welcome.”