by Katie Alston

kalston@thekmgroup.co.uk

Steam-punk pixies, flower fairies, Morris Men and Pagan drummers turned the heads of visitors to Canterbury on Easter Sunday.

Many couldn’t believe their eyes as the pointy eared, wing wearing parade wound its way through the city centre streets.

Dragons, giants and even Vikings joined the colourful procession which was officially marking the start of the 2011 Fairy Festival.

After entertaining the crowds with a display of music and dance in the Longmarket, the bright bunch made their way back to the Westgate Hall, where a three day fairy market was being held.

An assortment of fairy fare was on offer for shoppers to peruse including tutus, magic wands, original artwork, jewellery, crystals and food.

There was also Tarot reading, aromatherapy, talks and workshops on Maypole Dancing, painting, meditation and healing.

On the Friday night there was a special Fairy Ball, headlined by Toyah Wilcox.

The Fairy Festival continued all Easter weekend, and closed with a special Spring Ceremony, carried out by The Coven of The Bright Isle.

The next fairy event at the Westgate Hall is the Goddess Festival in August.

For more information visit www.magicalfestivals.co.uk.

See this week's Gazette for more pictures.