The magic of Roald Dahl arrives in Birmingham

The magic of the greatest children’s authors of all time is set to come to life this weekend in Birmingham.

Saturday 10th September marks what would have been Roald Dahl’s 100th birthday and to celebrate, the Custard Factory in Digbeth will be inspiring the future generation with a fun day packed full of Roald Dahl inspired activities.

The free event, which will take place from 10am-4pm, will play host to all the magic of Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG and more across the day. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite Roald Dahl character for a chance to win a family ticket to Cadbury World, which is where, of course, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was inspired by. Those taking part will also have chance to meet Willy Wonka himself when he announces the winner during the day.

As well as the fancy dress competition, there will also be a range of other activities for the whole family to take part in. Custard Factory’s own Chitty’s Cakes will be running a workshop where children can decorate their very own cupcakes in bright colours and styles and take home the results.

Tara Newman, Head of Sales & Marketing at the Custard Factory, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming families and the young at heart to our first ever Roald Dahl Day as part of a nationwide programme of events celebrating the world’s number one storyteller.

“We have made sure that there is something for everyone; from chocoholics and film lovers to children only just discovering the joys of Roald Dahl’s much-loved books. It’s going to be more giant than James’ peach, more enormous than a crocodile and more marvellous than George’s medicine!”

There will also be opportunities for the family to become inventors for the day, with Katjes Fassin UK Ltd bringing their Magic Candy Factory 3D gummy candy printer to the event. As well as various other activities for the family to enjoy, including funfair rides, face painting and even flavoured beers to try, there will be film screenings of some of Roald Dahl’s best films on at The Mockingbird. Film screenings include Matilda, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and The Witches.