Steampunk Festival Draws 700 to Newark Despite Rainy Weather

UPDATE: The annual Christmas Steampunk Festival in Newark has made a spectacular return, attracting approximately 700 Steampunk enthusiasts over the weekend, despite challenging weather conditions. The festival, spanning from December 1 to December 3, 2023, kicked off with a sold-out fashion show at Newark Town Hall on Friday evening.

Attendees braved the rain and wind on Saturday, donning elaborate costumes as they explored the bustling Steampunk market in the Market Place. The evening featured a Gala Ball in the Town Hall’s stunning Georgian ballroom, where the atmosphere was electric. “We’re a hardy bunch, we just breeze through these things,” said Parvin Mannering, lead organizer of the event. “It was a fantastic atmosphere across the weekend.”

In a shift for safety, the traditional parade on Sunday utilized battery-operated candles and fairy lights instead of flame torches, yet the spirit of the festival remained undeterred. The procession, led by the Nottinghamshire Pipe and Drum Band, illuminated Newark’s streets as the community celebrated the start of the Christmas season.

First-time attendee Louise Bateman traveled from Essex, sharing her excitement: “We’re like the magpies of the fashion world! Everyone has been so friendly and we’ve had so much help telling us where to go.” Veteran festival-goer Mark Cramoysan from Boroughbridge expressed his joy: “The market is so good, and it just feels like a really nice place.”

Families joined in the fun, with Harold Shimwell from Derbyshire bringing his daughter Jordan for her inaugural experience. “It’s a really good laugh and such a lovely, sociable event,” he remarked.

The festival not only showcased stunning costumes but also fostered a sense of community. Attendee Sue Lay from Doncaster highlighted the empowering nature of the event: “When you get your costume on, you become whoever you want to be.”

As the weekend wrapped up, the enduring spirit of the Steampunk community shone bright through the rain. With the festival now concluded, all eyes are on the Newark Steampunk Society for next year’s celebrations.

For those who missed out, the buzz surrounding the festival promises to keep the Steampunk spirit alive as the countdown to next year’s event begins.