Suffolk’s Big Weekend announced, with attractions encouraged to sign up

 The event, which takes place on 18 and 19 October this year, shines a spotlight on the rich culture and visitor attractions that can be found close to home – giving people the chance to enter a free prize draw with the hope of winning some prizes and exclusive experiences at some of the county’s attractions.
 
Launched in Babergh and Mid Suffolk last year, the event has now been expanded to cover the whole of Suffolk in partnership with other district and borough councils – encouraging locals to explore, and be proud of, where they live.
 
Businesses are encouraged to put forward a visitor experience or offer, with anyone living in the county then able to put their name into the free prize draw to win it. 
 
Cllr Derek Davis, Babergh District Council cabinet member for sustainable economy, said:

“This is a great opportunity for businesses to further put themselves on the map, show customers what they have to offer and engage with their local communities.
 
“The Big Weekend also provides your business with a unique chance to trial a new product, promotion or experience that you might have been thinking about, so don’t hesitate to sign up to take part.”
 
Cllr Tim Weller, Mid Suffolk District Council cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing, said:

“The Big Weekend was a huge success last year and helped to connect residents with the all the amazing businesses and local attractions that can be found right on their doorsteps.
 
“This year, I’m so pleased to see our partners in East Suffolk, West Suffolk and Ipswich getting on board. Together, we will help to showcase the very best that our county has to offer.”

Cllr Tim Wilson, East Suffolk Council's cabinet member for economic development and transport, said:

"We are pleased to be supporting this year’s Suffolk Big Weekend to help promote local businesses and encourage residents to explore the wide range of events and attractions on offer in East Suffolk and elsewhere in the county. 

“I would urge tourism and leisure businesses to get involved in the Big Weekend, both to promote their business to new customers but to also highlight everything Suffolk has to offer as a visitor destination.”

Cllr Neil MacDonald, leader of Ipswich Borough Council, said:

“The Suffolk Big Weekend is a great opportunity to show off Ipswich as a vibrant destination for visitors as well as a much-loved home town for those who live and work here. 

“There’s plenty to offer people coming, to enjoy great food, drink, hospitality and things for people of all ages to do, as well as find out more on the rich history of both the town and marina. 

“It’s vital that we support local, independent businesses and this will be an opportunity for them to showcase what they offer to more people, creating a boost for the local economy.”

Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, cabinet member for growth at West Suffolk Council, said:

“We are excited to get involved with Suffolk Big Weekend. Events like this are a shining example of how districts and boroughs are working together to help achieve better outcomes for our residents. 

“We are home to a range of brilliant businesses from food to retail, a vibrant culture and heritage scene and stunning parks. Suffolk Big Weekend is a fantastic way to showcase what is available and get residents involved to keep communities thriving.”

So far, prizes already pledged include tickets to see a band at the John Peel Centre in Stowmarket, a voucher for Press Start Gaming in Ipswich, a trip for two with Suffolk River Trips, and a visit for four to Purple Pumpkin Creative Studio in Halesworth.
 
The public ballot is set to open on Monday 1 September.
 
Any businesses that would like to take part in the Big Weekend should contact bmsdctourismandculture@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk
 
More information about available prizes will be shared closer to when the ballot opens.