We arrived early Saturday morning to set up our ‘home from home’ next to the Romans, in the beautiful village of Hope (Yr Hob) Flintshire, Wales. The scorching hot sun brought out the crowds who joined in the colourful opening parade with Deva Vitrix, carnival queens, pirate floats and a marching band. The Carnival was opened by X Factor star Chris Maloney and the crowds mingled with Vikings, Romans, mini Druids and a giant Monk!
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| Aisha partway through a henna tattoo |
A constant stream of visitors to our base kept Meroe and Aisha busy with henna tattoos all day, but there was always time to stop for refreshments and a catch-up with our friends and neighbours, and with the many passers-by who stopped to chat and exchange stories. One recalled memories of Cairo and dancing girls in the 1950’s, whilst a very cheeky visitor used the tent as a vantage point taking in the beautiful views of Hope Mountain and the surrounding woodland. He didn’t stop long enough for a henna tattoo and reluctantly returned to the arena for the remainder of the Falconry Display.
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| An unusual visitor |
After some dancing outside the tent we retreated to its cool interior for some lunch and relaxation time before our performance in the main arena.
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| Aisha, Meroe, Phoenece and Naima |
The scorching heat didn’t stop the audience joining in with the final dance as Meroe and the rest of the Ya Raqs ladies encouraged people to have a go!
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| Tameri, Phoenece, Aisha, Kiya and Meroe |
Just time for some refreshments and to cool off with ice creams before packing up and returning home after a wonderful day.
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| Kiya, Meroe and Phoenece posing before their ice creams melt! |
We would like to thank the organisers for inviting us and everyone who participated for making it a truly wonderful Carnival.
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