London SE1 > News & Features > September 2000

Thames Festival

There will be low tide conditions all day for the Thames Festival due to the closure of the Thames Barrier.

On Sunday 17 September visitors to Oxo Tower Wharf can slip a fish into the now clean River Thames or just enjoy the music from a floating stage - starting with relaxing classics and climaxing with jazz.

At dusk there will be the now popular River of Life lantern procession from the Victoria Embankment, crossing Blackfriars Bridge shortly after 7.30pm.

The fireworks finale is a special commission from the French master pyrotechnician Christophe Berthonneau who created the stunning display for the Millennium Bridge opening ceremony.

RIVER REVELRY
12 noon-5pm; by Gabriel's Wharf
Enjoy the prolonged low tide on the Thames with this afternoon of fun on the foreshore.

FLOATING STAGE
3pm-9pm; by Oxo Tower Wharf
Lie back on the beach and enjoy this varied musical programme.

RIVER OF LIFE LANTERN PROCESSION
7.30-9.30pm; starts Victoria Embankment
Illuminated sculptures, carnival costumes, floats, music, dancers, singers and hand-held lanterns (join the free lantern-making workshops next to Oxo Tower Wharf 1-5pm). Everyone is encouraged to wear blue.

GROUPE F FIREWORKS
9.30pm; the Thames between Waterloo and Blackfriars Bridges
Another show from master pyrotechnician Christophe Berthonneau, responsible for May's spectacular Millennium Bridge fireworks.

www.thamesfestival.org