The Durham Miners' Gala returns this year and organisers are to carry on with a camping offer that has proved a hit with visitors.
After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been confirmed that the event will return on July 9.
Gala organisers are offering camping over two nights just a short walk from the festivities. The introduction of affordable, high-quality accommodation in previous years proved a hit with festival goers.
More than 200,000 people attended the 2019 Gala, and organisers are expecting an even bigger crowd to attend this year’s event, which has been dedicated to all the key workers who kept society functioning during the pandemic.
Read more: Durham Miners' Gala returns for 2022 after being cancelled for two years due to Covid
The campsite is in a quiet countryside setting at East Durham College’s Houghall Campus in Durham city.
It includes free showers and toilet facilities, and on-site catering providing cooked breakfasts. New for 2022 is a communal marquee with a bar and live entertainment for guests only. Stewarding will be on site throughout the night to ensure a safe and secure stay.
Accommodation can be booked now for Friday 8 and/or Saturday 9 July 2022. Camper vans and caravans, as well as tents, are welcome, as are dogs on leads.
All proceeds will go to the Friends of Durham Miners Gala (FODMG), the not-for-profit organisation created to fund the event.
FODMG Chair Dave Anderson said: "We had excellent feedback from those who camped in previous years and are delighted that we are again able to offer visitors this affordable and high-quality option to stay and make the most of the wonderful Gala weekend. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Durham in July."
People can book now for an early bird price of just £15 per person per night for adults, £7.50 for under-16s, and free for under-fives. Prices will rise ahead of the Gala to a full price of £20 per person per night for adults, £10 for under-16s, while remaining free for under-fives.
Free cancellation with a full refund is available until July 2– a week before the Big Meeting. There is also a further 20% discount for ‘Marras’, those who support the Gala via subscription to FODMG.
To book camping, go to: https://www.friendsofdurhamminersgala.org/camping
