Tourism

The pretty snowdrops are out and so is the snow! Yes, St Albans is experiencing the familiar sight of snow yet again. Nearby Luton airport has had to cancel many flights due to heavy snowfalls on the runway. However, local schools have remained open.The road conditions are reasonably good, if you manage to ignore the huge potholes! More snow is expected tomorrow night.

We all know that Christmas is a magical time of year, everyone is more relaxed and full of good cheer. Well there are lots of things to see and do in St. Albans, so there's no excuse not to get out and enjoy a bit of stalbanslife!

Alban is a two act community opera involving over 150 performers which has been commissioned by the St. Albans Cathedral Music Trust. It will be given five performances (including a matinee) in St. Albans Cathedral between May 20-24 2009, bringing together a wealth of local talent. Singers, actors, dancers and musicians of all ages drawn principally, though not exclusively, from parish and school choirs across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire will join a core of experienced professional performers.

A few years ago, I asked Imogen de la Bere what she would consider to be the essence of life. 'Truth' was her answer. Interestingly, the OVO philosophy of theatre is that the 'emotional truthfulness of the acting should supply everything.'

1st August sees the formal launch of an exciting new website celebrating the ‘living history’ of the Sopwell area of St Albans. Funded by the National Lottery the website, www.sopwellmemories.org.uk, contains stories and photographs contributed by local people, as well as an extensive and increasing archive of oral history interviews with both recent and long-standing residents. It aims to capture memories of living in Sopwell as it changed from a rural farming community to a culturally diverse suburb of St Albans.

Hertfordshire has played its part in papal affairs. In the 12th century, a young boy from Abbots Langley near St Albans, called Nicholas, lived on a farm like many of his peers. Little did he know that as a result of unforeseen disappointments and his own strength of character, he would be the only Englishman to become a pope. This September marks the 850th anniversary of Nicholas Breakspear’s death.

There is a special gold trophy which weighs 4 pounds, stands 17 inches tall and known to the whole world as The Ryder Cup. Many locals are unaware that its founder Samuel Ryder was one of the greatest citizens that St Albans has ever had; as a business man, politician and churchman.

February's weather is cold and dull but there is plenty on in this city for the family to get out and enjoy. Here are just a few examples but follow the links to find out lots more about each venue.

Butterfly World, St Albans, will welcome David Bellamy this Sunday 10th October. David, the well-known conservationist, is patron to Butterfly World and will be there in person to meet visitors and speak about the decline in the butterfly species.

You live in St Albans, you are wondering what’s on to entertain you this month…..so we have listed a few of our top choices for you to choose from!