Approximately 4,500 people gathered at Walsall Arboretum on Saturday 5 July for the Bostin’ Black Country Bash, an all-day festival celebrating the rich cultural and geological heritage of the Black Country with live music, family entertainment, and local pride on full display.
The free event marked the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO Global Geoparks network, with the Black Country proudly recognised as one of its prestigious members. The designation reflects the region’s international significance in shaping the Industrial Revolution and its ongoing global legacy. Other Geoparks globally include the North Pennines, Ore of the Alps in Austria, the Azores and Kefalonia-Ithaca in Greece.
From rock to reggae, bhangra to blues, the Arboretum pulsed with diverse musical energy throughout the day. Highlights included a vibrant bhangra dance performance by Gabhru Panjab De, who delivered not just a show, but an interactive dance lesson. The day ended on a high as rhythm & blues legends King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys took to the stage for a rousing finale.
Beyond the music, the festival featured family-friendly attractions, including children’s rides, a working traction engine, historic fairground displays, and craft activities led by the Walsall Leather Museum. The Black Country Geopark team engaged visitors with stories and displays about the region’s geological significance and its lasting impact on the world.
“ The Bostin’ Black Country Bash was a brilliant day that brought our community together to celebrate the unique heritage, talent, and diversity of the Black Country. We were thrilled to see Walsall Arboretum filled with music, laughter, and local pride. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council..
About the UNESCO Black Country Geopark
The Black Country played a major role in the creation of the modern world. It was here that the Industrial Revolution was at its most intense. It is a unique place, packed with incredible and surprising heritage features and colourful stories to be discovered. The Black Country became a UNESCO Global Geopark on Friday 10 July 2020 in recognition of the international importance of its natural and cultural heritage. This means the Black Country is on a par with UNESCO Global Geoparks in countries stretching from Brazil to Canada and Iceland to Tanzania.
The UNESCO Black Country Geopark network is a joint partnership between Dudley, Walsall, Sandwell and Wolverhampton Councils.
For more information visit: http://blackcountrygeopark.dudley.gov.uk
About Walsall Arboretum
Walsall Arboretum is a rural retreat at the heart of Walsall town centre. First opened in 1874, it now spans 170 acres and includes Hatherton Lake, the country park and the extension.
The site attracts over a million visitors a year, with people of all ages enjoying events such as the annual bonfire and fireworks, funfairs, fun runs and activities such as: cricket, tennis, bowling, informal football, walking, cycling, and running. The Saturday parkrun attracts hundreds of people every week. In summer, the splash pad and children’s play area also attract thousands of visitors.
With a trim trail, skatepark and multi-use games area there really is something for everyone. And in amongst all this activity, there are spaces for quiet contemplation and opportunities to enjoy the vast array of plants and animals that inhabit the space.