By Bernadette Russell
“You have three wishes. One for yourself, one for your community and one for the whole world… what would you wish for?”
As part of A Very Croydon Christmas in 2023, children and their families decorated a tree at Central Library with their three wishes as part of Bernadette Russell’s interactive storytelling event, The Wishing Tree.
These wishes were planted in the soil beneath a sapling on the High Street – Croydon’s real-life Wishing Tree!
Now our tree has taken root, we celebrate The Wishing Tree and welcome back Bernadette Russell to tell her story to the next generation of wish-makers!
Join Bernadette Russell and Emma Waterford – authors, storytellers, artists and treeplanters, and musician Deb Chalmers, at Croydon Central Library, to hear the magical tale of The Wishing Tree, set in the ancient forest. Make your own sound effects, join in with actions, and share your own ideas for the story… or you can just listen and relax!
After the story, make your own magical wish using bells and ribbons, then join our joyful musical procession through the town to visit the real Wishing Tree, where we will unveil a new plaque.
Additional information about this event
This is a free event. Advance booking is required.
Please note there will be a photographer capturing this event. If you do not wish to have your photo taken please notify a member of staff on arrival.
The story will last approximately 45 minutes. This is a relaxed event suitable for all ages. The library and the walking route to the tree are fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Part of Green Spaces Day
Sat 28 June
The Keeper’s Nests
Remember the age-old rhyme… one for sorrow, two for joy? These two mysterious magpies will be roaming the town centre, collecting the secrets of passers-by. Marvel at these magnificent puppets and post your secrets into their letter box to keep them safe!
Sat 28 June, 12pm, 1.45pm & 3.30pm
High Street & North End
The Pigeons
Mr and Mrs Pigeon are very curious birds! Watch out for their outrageous behavior as these common city birds peck their way around Croydon town centre.
Sat 28 June, 1pm, 2.30pm & 4pm
High Street & North End
TALK: The Green Side of Croydon
Join Alice Owusu-Evans, Croydon’s Community and Conservation Team Leader, for a talk about the borough’s green spaces and our plans to manage and care for them. Discover how to become a volunteer, and take part in organised walks and activities.
Sat 28 June, 2pm
Croydon Central Library
Crafts with Wandle Industrial Museum
Learn about textile printing and make your own prints with Wandle Industrial Museum. Suitable for ages 4 – 10.
Sat 28 June, 2.30pm
Croydon Central Library
Discover local wildlife and nature groups
Meet local groups and visit stalls including: Croydon RSPB, Croydon Natural History & Scientific Society (CNHSS), Croydon Ecology Centre, Wandle Industrial Museum, Croydon Climate Action, Croydon Community Gardens, Wilderness Gardens and Croydon COPSE.
Sat 28 June, 11am – 4pm
Croydon Central Library
