Visitors to this year’s Durham Miners’ Gala can now book to camp in the city for this year’s event.
Gala organisers are offering official camping over two nights just a short walk from the festivities.
The introduction of affordable, high-quality accommodation was a hit with festival goers at last year’s event.
More than 200,000 people attended the 2018 Gala, and organisers are expecting an even bigger crowd this year.
The 135th Durham Miners’ Gala takes place on Saturday 13 July 2019. The campsite at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus will include free luxury showers and toilets, plus a café and entertainment tent featuring open mike for those bringing their guitars.
Accommodation can be booked now for Friday 12, and Saturday 13 July. Places are limited and people are advised to book early. Camper vans and caravans, as well as tents, are welcome.
All funds raised from camping will go the help cover the costs of staging the Gala, which is a free event.
The campsite is provided by Marras – the Friends of Durham Miners’ Gala, the organisation which funds the Big Meeting through member contributions.
Dave Anderson, Chair of the Marras, said: “We had excellent feedback from those who camped last year and are delighted that we can again offer this affordable and high-quality option so visitors can stay in Durham and make the most of the wonderful Gala weekend.
“We’re expecting even bigger crowds than last year, and are working to ensure that the 135th Big Meeting is the best yet. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Durham in July, and I urge everyone to become a Marra and support our unique and inspiring event.”
Camping is priced at just £15 per person per night for adults, and £7.50 for under 16s, and free for under 5s. There is also a 25 percent discount for members of the Marras.
Free cancellation with a full refund is available until Saturday 6 July – a week before the Big Meeting.
The Durham Miners’ Gala is one of the world’s largest working-class festivals, and celebrations of community spirit, trade union collectivism, and international solidarity.
The success and growth of the Gala in recent years means the costs of staging the event have risen significantly. Historically, the Gala was paid for by the working miners of the Durham Coalfield. Now it’s paid for by Marras.
Camping can be booked now online.
To support the Gala – and receive a 25 percent discount on camping – become a Marra.
For more information, email [email protected], or call 0191 386 8413.