Write a commentThe 200th anniversary of the writing of the American national anthem will be celebrated right across the U.S.on September 13th. However some 4 hours earlier the celebrations will begin in Rostrevor.
The Star Spangled Rostrevor Festival kicks off at 10.00 am this Saturday 13 September with costumed tours of the village and a General Ross exhibition with film about Rostrevor in the Presbyterian Church Hall, throughout the day.
A lecture on the events of the 1812-14 war will be delivered by local historian Dr John Mc Cavitt at the Ross Monument at 2.00pm on both days with live music in the village square from 3.00 pm to 8.00 pm on Saturday.
The highlight of the event will be a spectacular fireworks display and recreation of the bombardment of Fort Mc Henry at 9.00 pm on the Saturday evening.
The Festival will continue on Sunday 14 September with live music and dancing in the square from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. Bring your dancing shoes and vintage costumes as vocal trio Swingabella and their seven piece band will recreate the glamour and excitement of American music of the 1930's and 40's.
The Bellehoppers will also be there to lead you through the Charleston and the Jitterbug.
Costumed tours will continue on Sunday with a pedal parade of local children cycling from Petitt Park to the square decorated to an American theme, at 2.00 pm.
The Star Spangled Rostrevor Festival will mark the bicentenary of the writing of the American National Anthem, the Star Spangled Banner, and its links to Rostrevor and to General Ross.
Upwards of 100 schoolchildren held a massive American flag to mark the launch of the Star Spangled Rostrevor festival last week.
