Holloway Arts Festival: jubilee party at Harvist Estate

As the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee weekend came to a close, Harvist Estate threw one last big bash to celebrate the Queen’s 60-year reign. North London Cares hosted a family fun day out at Harvist Estate (near the world famous Emirates Stadium) on Tuesday 5^th June.

From live music performances and public martial arts demonstrations to face-painting for kids, there was something for everyone to enjoy at the free event. Even the dreaded rain didn’t stop the festivities as North London Cares thought ahead and provided garden marquees for shelter.

Arsenal in the Community led football tournaments for everyone to participate in, whilst kids were also treated to a bouncy castle and other games. The end of the afternoon saw a raffle being drawn, with winners receiving prizes such as a tour of the Emirates Stadium, a Junior Gunners’ membership, two tickets to a film at the Holloway Odeon, a bottle of champagne and many other prizes.

Guests were regaled with a great spread of food including a flaming barbeque and fairy cakes. To wash down the delicious treats, members of the community lent a helping hand to North London Cares and brought refreshments for everyone to enjoy.

Although funded by Islington Council, the event had lots of support from local groups and organisations including Arsenal in the Community, Aquaterra and the Sobell Leisure Centre, Emmanuel Church, Pakeman Primary School and Waitrose. Individuals living on the estate also got involved to help make it a success.

“Islington is all about diversity and it was great to celebrate that richness by bringing together a school, a football club, a business, a leisure centre, a martial arts group, a church and a cultural group; working class, middle class, old, young, black, white”, said North London Cares founder Alex Smith. “Our community really enjoyed the opportunity for that time together.”

North London Cares’ network co-ordinator, Jennifer Painter, added: “The response was overwhelmingly positive and the atmosphere on the day was brilliant – everyone there visibly enjoyed having the opportunity to interact with their neighbours in such a fun way.”

 Zanib Asghar

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