This year’s theme: Snarks, Rhymes and Riddles, marking the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s nonsense poem The Hunting of the Snark.
Coordinated by The Story Museum annually, the much-loved one-day festival sees Oxford transformed into a Wonderland with talks, street theatre, storytelling, workshops and more, celebrating a beloved literary character and global icon. There will be events taking place at venues city-wide, including Alice’s Shop, Westgate Oxford, Bodleian Library, Christ Church, Museum of Oxford, Oxford Botanic Garden and more.
You may catch a glimpse of Alice herself as she chases the White Rabbit, in a street theatre performance by Creation Theatre; meanwhile see a performance from Rough Magic Theatre at Westgate Oxford, using shadow puppetry and live singing bringing the Jabberwock to life!
Drop into Museum of Oxford for Hands-On History – Alice’s Day edition – for a chance to handle objects associated with Alice’s story and connection to Oxford. Don’t miss the opportunity to try croquet in the Master’s Garden at Christ Church, one of the locations which first inspired Alice’s tale, and experience a Magic Lantern show in the Dodgson Room, also at Christ Church.
At The Weston Library, hear Alice tales performed by storyteller Lucy Walters throughout the day, and enjoy talks from the Lewis Carroll Society. See performances in the lush surroundings of Oxford Botanic Garden and take part in an Alice-themed trail.
Meanwhile, The Story Museum is offering half price entry to its Galleries and Small Worlds, the Museum’s story-zone dedicated to the under-fives. Enjoy courtyard face-painting; Rhymes and Riddles with Oxford Poetry Library; have a go at Snarks and Riddles, the giant interactive boardgame designed by The Story Museum’s young Story Curators; Return to Wonderland with Anna James, who will be celebrating the launch of her new book Alice With a Why. Indulge in a delicious Wonderland Afternoon Tea (pre-booking required) with freshly made sandwiches, savouries, cakes and treats all prepared by The Museum’s café team and served in the Magic Common Room.
Conrad Bodman, The Story Museum’s CEO says:
We’re proud that Alice’s Day has become such firm fixture in Oxford’s cultural calendar. Over the years, we’ve welcomed Alice fans from around the world who want to celebrate an enduring literary icon. I want to thank our partner venues who continue to deliver a vibrant programme; we’re especially grateful Howes Percival and Snowflake Gelato for generously supporting this year’s event.
Clare Martin, Centre Director at Westgate Oxford, commented:
Lewis Carroll’s whimsical stories are so special to Oxford and our community, so we’re delighted to be partnering with The Story Museum to host some of the Alice’s Day festivities at Westgate Oxford. We can’t wait to see Oxford locals and visitors alike immerse themselves in the day's wondrous events.
