York Peace Festival will return after a six-year break on Sunday, September 5, in Rowntree Park to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

The line-up for this free event is yet to be finalised, so regular updates will follow, but festival organiser Dylan George confirms there will be two stages of live music from diverse bands and cutting-edge musicians of international renown; a cabaret tent of upbeat entertainment from puppet shows to burlesque; and a kids’ zone with activities aplenty.

“You can have a shot at art-jamming, with some professional artists, or expand your comfort zone by getting roped into something beyond the norm with our performers, who’ll all be doing their thing,” says Dylan, from Millers Yard, York.

“Or you can check out the local arts, crafts and ethical produce on sale by local businesses, and find out what’s going on in local community groups, who’ll be showcasing their special interests.

“Or let your hair down in the dance area with a spot of Bollywood or ballroom, hip-hop or tango. Or, drop down a couple of gears and get peaceful in the chill-out area with the aid of some of the Millers Yard therapists.

“For those who enjoy a little old-school elegance, there’ll be a vintage fashion show and tea party – and the whole day will be dished up with a dollop of silliness: free range egg and spoon race, anybody?” A Global Peace Tent will house peace groups and human rights organisations looking for your support. “We’ll have the World Peace Flame, so bring a candle, and we’ll be showcasing the peace flags created by 400 schoolchildren from in and around York,” says Dylan.

There also will be an opportunity to look at a plan of Rowntree Park’s new Peace Garden – the joint creation of Dylan, Brunswick Organic Nursery, Friends of Rowntree Park and City of York Council – and to share ideas on what should be planted. “Our mission is not only to raise awareness of conflicts across the world, but also to flag up the opportunities that exist for each of us to make a difference to the lives of others, as well as to our own, through self-expression, creativity and community,” says Dylan.

“In fact, the festival wouldn’t be possible without the skills and goodwill – all given for free – of designers and co- ordinators. “It’s all been done on a shoestring, without any sponsorship, so it’s very much a festival by the people, for the people.”

If you fancy helping out, you are asked to send your name and telephone number via yorkpeacefestival.org.uk or email to info@millersyard.org.uk “We’ll definitely need extra pairs of hands for two or three-hour shifts on the day,” says Dylan.

“So, don’t sit indoors fretting about bills, your waistline, your broadband connection or the state we’re in. Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere. Get yourself down to York’s beautiful, award-winning Rowntree Park on September 5 and be inspired.”

In the meantime, watch this space for announcements of the festival line-up.