As the early May bank holiday approaches, Shepton Mallet is practically buzzing with anticipation for a weekend filled with entertainment and family-friendly fun.

Kicking off the festivities is The Big Bark 2024, hosted by A Doggy Day Out with the sponsors of this newsletter, the Bath & West Showground, on Sunday, May 5th. This annual event promises a day of canine celebration, welcoming families and their four-legged friends for a plethora of activities. From agility and flyball to charity dog shows and a photobooth, there's something for every dog enthusiast. With plenty of grassy areas for picnics and delicious street food on offer, it's the perfect day out for dog lovers of all ages. Click Here For More Details

For those seeking a nostalgic experience, the East Somerset Railway beckons with a journey through the picturesque Somerset countryside. From May 4th to May 6th, visitors can enjoy steam train rides and explore the engine sheds to learn about the maintenance of these historic locomotives. Live music adds to the ambiance, with performances by SimplyUke on Sunday, May 5th, and the Paulton Ukulele Band on Monday, May 6th. Day rover tickets offer unlimited travel for a single price, making it an ideal day out for families and railway enthusiasts alike. Click Here For More Details

In addition to these headline events, Shepton Mallet boasts a diverse lineup of activities throughout the weekend.

On Friday, May 3rd, music aficionados can enjoy the sounds of the Shepton Mallet Big Band at the White Hart Hotel in Wells. From 1940s classics to contemporary rock and soul, this musical showcase promises an evening of toe-tapping tunes. Click Here For More Details

The same day, prepare to be swept away by the fiery passion of Flamenco Loco at The Art Bank Cafe in Shepton Mallet. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing rhythms and melodies as talented performers bring the spirit of Spain to life right here in Somerset. From the soul-stirring strumming of guitars to the electrifying footwork of dancers, this evening promises an unforgettable cultural experience that will transport you to the heart of Andalusia.

The Big Bark is a perfect day out for dog lovers (submitted photo)

On Saturday, May 4th, the Bath & West Showground hosts Crossfest UK South 2024, a day-long event featuring music, food, and family-friendly activities. This epic event combines a one-day Mixed 6s Functional Fitness Competition (3M/3F) with a Music Festival, promising a day packed with adrenaline-pumping challenges and electrifying beats. Gather your gym buddies and prepare to throw down hard, pushing your limits in the competition arena before hitting the dance floor to vibe to top-quality tunes. Whether you choose to arrive Saturday morning, pumped up and ready to go, or opt for a Friday evening arrival to set up camp and extend the festivities until Sunday morning, one thing's for sure – this isn't just a festival, it's a weekend-long celebration of fitness, music, and good times!

On Sunday, May 5th, St Aldhelm's Church in Doulting invites you to embrace your inner artist at Messy Church. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into a world of creative exploration, where messy hands and boundless imagination collide. From finger painting and sculpting to crafting and storytelling, there's no limit to the fun and creativity waiting to be unleashed. So gather the family and join in the messy mayhem for a Sunday filled with laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories.

And you can end the weekend on a high note at Runaway Train 2024, Prepare for a scenic thrill as the Runaway Train event invites runners, walkers, and families to traverse the picturesque Windsor Hill railway path, with rugged trail races offering 8½ mile and 3 mile options, showcasing serene woods, tranquil valleys, and breathtaking viaducts, culminating in the heart of Shepton Mallet. Families and leisurely strollers can also join the fun, opting for a shorter route to Ham Woods and back. After the races, all converge in Shepton Mallet market place for a lunch-time feast featuring the traditional Irish delicacy of boxty.

With such a diverse array of events, Shepton Mallet is the place to be this bank holiday weekend. From flamenco fiestas to messy adventures and musical escapades, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on the excitement – come join the fun and make memories to last a lifetime!