The working lives and trades that helped shape Swindon will be celebrated through flowers next month when Christ Church in Old Town opens its doors for a special community event.
Working Lives in Bloom – A Flower Festival and Heritage Open Day takes place at Christ Church and the Community Centre @ Christ Church in Cricklade Street on Saturday 19 September, from 1pm to 4pm.
The free event will combine colourful floral displays with a chance to explore one of Old Town’s historic landmarks, offering visitors an afternoon of local history, crafts and community activities.
The church will be transformed by flower arrangements inspired by the everyday occupations and organisations that have played a part in the town’s story. Butchers, bakers, candle makers and other local trades will all feature in displays created by flower arrangers, community groups and local organisations.
There will also be an opportunity to look around the Grade II listed church*, which dates from 1851. Guided tours will take visitors into the church, including its striking stained glass, bell tower and historic churchyard.
The churchyard contains more than 23 war graves, adding another layer to the stories connected with the site.
Refreshments will be available during the afternoon, while craft stalls will provide an opportunity to browse the work of local makers.
Have a go at the flower arranging competition
Visitors can also get involved themselves, with a flower arranging competition open to everyone.
There are four classes:
- Window Display: Jobs that Shaped Our Town
- Pedestal Class: Working Together
- Table Exhibit: Market Town Place
- Children’s Class: Baker’s Basket
The competition is open to individuals, families, community groups and organisations, with entrants invited to interpret the themes through flowers and floral design.
A spokesperson for Christ Church said: “Working Lives in Bloom is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the history of our local community in a creative and accessible way.
“Flowers will help us tell the stories of the people, trades and organisations that have shaped Old Town and Swindon, while the Heritage Open Day gives visitors a chance to discover more about our beautiful church and its fascinating history.”
The event is suitable for all ages and promises a rather different way of exploring Swindon’s past, with the history of everyday working life told through colour, flowers and the people who make up the local community.
And if you can’t make it on the Saturday, the floral displays will remain on view on Sunday 20 September from 8am to 4pm.
Event details
Working Lives in Bloom – A Flower Festival and Heritage Open Day
Saturday 19 September 2026, 1pm–4pm
Christ Church and Community Centre @ Christ Church
Cricklade Street, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 3HG
Admission: Free
