Harper Adams University lights up for 125th anniversary Festive Celebration

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Harper Adams University is opening its Edgmond campus to members of the public for a free to attend, family-friendly Christmas celebration this December, as it marks 125 years with an evening of festive entertainment, light displays and fun activities.

The 125th anniversary Festive Celebration will take place on Wednesday 9 December from 4-8pm.

At the heart of the celebration will be a light projection illuminating the front of the University's historic Foundation House. Created in collaboration with the prestigious Rose Bruford College of performing arts in London, the 12-minute multimedia show will tell the story of Harper Adams, from its beginnings in 1901 to its position today as the UK’s leading “green brick” university in agriculture, food production and innovation.

The spectacular projection will feature narration from award-winning actress Felicity Finch and television presenter Adam Henson, who are both honorary graduates, bringing 125 years of history to life in a memorable display of light, sound and storytelling.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy illuminated trees around the University's grounds, creating a magical backdrop to the evening's celebrations. The celebrations will extend across the campus, with stalls offering Christmas gifts, crafts and seasonal treats. Street food, festive drinks, and entertainment will add to the atmosphere, with local performers Brass Buttons providing live music as visitors enjoy the festive surroundings.

There will be plenty of opportunities for families to get involved in activities inspired by the University's specialist subjects, from food and farming to animals, nature and sustainability.

Associate Professor of Entomology Heather Campbell will give a festive lecture on The Twelve Bugs of Christmas, a magical twist on the classic Christmas song. There will also be interactive science activities and displays in the Weston building foyer before and after the lecture so you can get up close and hands-on with real-life science.

Ian Rowley, Executive Director of Institutional Reputation and Engagement at Harper Adams University, said, “We want this to be a memorable and special occasion, not just for Harper Adams, but for the whole community. Our 125th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate how far we've come, the impact of the exciting work happening at the university today, and the ambitions we have for the future.

“Come along at any time between 4 and 8pm on December 9 and enjoy the festive atmosphere, spectacular light projections, Christmas lecture, interactive activities and displays, and Christmas market. We hope people leave with wonderful memories, a greater connection to Harper Adams and a sense of excitement about what the next 125 years might bring.”

The event forms part of the University's 125th anniversary programme and will celebrate its proud history, connections with the local community and continued commitment to agri-food through education, research and innovation.

Shropshire Festivals has been enlisted as an event partner to deliver the event, which is designed to welcome families, local residents, alumni and the wider community onto campus for a memorable evening.

Admission to the 125th Anniversary Winter Celebration is free, with visitors asked to register in advance through Eventbrite to manage numbers here.

Limited parking will be available on site, with a specially commissioned bus service planned from Newport. Further details about transport, parking and the full programme of activities will be announced ahead of the event on  December 9.