Probably one of the most eccentric festivals in the West Country, Bridport Hat Festival is an absolute feast for the eyes.
People come from far and wide donning their handmade hats.
There are a few events during the week, but the main event is Haturday, which takes place on the Saturday of the festival.
Everyone gathers in Bucky Doo Square (yes, that’s its real name) to be shortlisted for the Fun Hats Competition for Best Lady’s, Gent’s, Girl’s and Boy’s Hats and the Most Elegantly-Hatted Couple.
Then at 1pm, once everyone has arrived, there is a mass-hatted photo. This is a great time to see the wonderful hats everyone has made.
Shortly after the mass hatted photo, the winners are announced for the much-coveted prizes in the Fun Hats Competition.
There are also beautiful displays in the Town Hall from professional milliners, which are judged in the Milliners and Hatters Open Competition.
Everyone is incredibly friendly here – this is one lovely lady we met, with her fabulous steampunk hat.
I love the slightly bonkers aspects of the Bridport Hat Festival; the Hat Hurling Challenge, Psychic Hat Reading and Best Hatted Dog Competition, to name but a few!
As well as all the hat-themed fun, there are fringe events, live music, and of course, the wonderful Bridport Market. Bridport is renowned for its mouth-watering local food and drink, so we couldn’t resist popping into Framptons family butcher for a deliciously warm, handmade chicken and ham pie. The perfect end to the day!
Practical details about Bridport Hat Festival
Website: www.bridporthatfest.org
Child friendly? Yes! This is a great opportunity to get arty with your little ones, make a hat and join in the fun.
Dog friendly? Yes
Accessible? Yes
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