Sudbury explores reviving its Silk Festival, which drew 5,000 in 2019. Town council seeks public input amid post-pandemic challenges and Vanners closure.
The first festival happened in September 2019. Over 5,000 people visited Sudbury, and events happened all around town. These events were related to silk.
The festival had exhibits and demonstrations that took place at Sudbury Arts Centre, which used to be St Peter’s. People gave talks and tours too; everything focused on silk.
In 2020, Babergh District Council suggested holding it every two years. People planned a festival for 2021 and started seeking funding for three years, supported by Gainsborough’s House.
The Covid-19 pandemic stopped the project. Sudbury has not had another silk festival since. The town council discussed bringing it back on January 28 and wants to promote the town.
Councillor Welsh thinks it is a good idea and believes they should explore the possibility. However, Councillor Regester thinks it will be harder because the original organizers may not be available.
Vanners, a big silk-weaving company, closed down after the last festival. Councillor Regester said contacting silk mills might be different now because of this.
The council needs to gauge interest to see if the festival can happen. He feels they are starting over, and it might take some time to organize.
