Get ready to step back in time and immerse yourself in the golden age of swing with music, dance and history, as Bedford Borough Council presents the Glenn Miller Memorial Weekend. Offering a unique opportunity to explore Glenn Miller’s connection to Bedford and his significant contribution to the Allied war effort, this special FREE event will honour the legendary bandleader and his enduring musical legacy.
Taking place over the weekend of Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December, the weekend promises to transport attendees back to the golden days of swing and big band music, commemorating 80 years since Major Miller disappeared over the English Channel during a flight to Paris.
Celebrate the music of the legendary Glenn Miller with live performances from May Blossom, Vintage Songbird, in Harpur Square, featuring his timeless swing tunes.
Take part in FREE Lindy Hop dance taster sessions, a tea dance, WWII vehicles, talks and tours. An event for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Visitors can:
Learn about Glenn Miller’s history: Discover fascinating facts about his time in Bedford and his broadcasts with the BBC in this fascinating talk at 1.30pm. FREE!
Enjoy free dance classes throughout the day in the Harpur Suite: Take part in FREE Lindy Hop, Social Foxtrot, and Barn Dance classes.
Join a free Lindy Hop taster class with Swingsters
Learn to dance the American Foxtrot: with a free class with Alan Axon from All Ruzzit Buzzit on Saturday 14th December, 1.15pm
Experience a FREE tea dance from 2pm until 4pm on both days in the Harpur Suite: Relax and enjoy live music performed by May Blossom, the Vintage Songbird, performing timeless swing tunes and other fabulous songs from the 1940’s.
Explore historical exhibits: Immerse yourself in the wartime era with military vehicles and visit the NAAFI in Harpur Square.
Take a guided tour: Join a ‘World War II in Bedford’ walking tour with the Bedford Association of Tour Guides, leaving the Harpur Suite at 11am each day. Learn about the town’s connection to Bletchley Park. These walks must be booked in advance on The Higgins Bedford website.
Visit The Higgins Bedford and view their World War II display.
The Higgins Bedford
Free to access! Uniting Cecil Higgins Art Gallery, Bedford Museum and Bedford Gallery.
View BusinessThe event will be in Harpur Square and the Harpur Suite, Bedford town centre. What3words location: ///jump.dress.town.
Make a booking to attend the dance:
On Saturday evening there will be a Glenn Miller Memorial Dance with the Harborough Big Band.
