The Big Lunch

In an Eden project that travels the globe, Folkestone is joining in, to what is called The Big Lunch - a giant picnic.

Started by The Eden Project, the idea was launched so that as many people as possible across the UK will have lunch with their neighbours. Held annually on the first Sunday in June, it’s a simple act of community, friendship and fun.

This year the Folkestone Quarterhouse will be hosting the free event on Sunday 7 June and it’s hoped that anyone who lives in Folkestone and Shepway will come along, bring a dish and get to know their neighbours.

Held in Payers Park, QH will provide tables and chairs along with soft drinks so all you have to do is rock up with a dish of your choice to share and join in the party. It also means that because of the location, QH have a wet weather plan - Inside the theatre.

“We’re setting our Big Lunch in Payers Park so there will be a lot of green area to throw down a rug. A lot of things happen in the area but never really in the park so we want to make that a focal point for everyone because we really want to get the community to use it.”

Georgia McElhone, marketing intern for the Quarterhouse said the idea was worldwide: “It’s a really good event to get everyone out having fun, relaxing with each other and maybe making some new friends and bringing the community together. There is a lot of people that feel quite isolated in the community, don’t really know anybody and it’s just a really fun day out for everyone for all ages.” Think street party minus the Royal Wedding.

The lunch also ties in with the start of Quarterhouse’s ‘Outlands Festival’ which runs until 16 August where there will be a lot of things happening in the park.

During the Big Lunch, there are also plans for more than just food: “We might be have some music playing, some games to play so that it’s a lively fun event for everyone.“

The event is free and there is no need to book but f you can, please contact Georgia at: marketingintern@creativefoundation.org.uk or by sending a message to the QH facebook page, so that they know chair and soft drink amounts.