Spring has arrived and now it's time to celebrate. The Hastings Blossom Festival officially starts tomorrow and all plans are flourishing nicely, according to festival co-ordinator Keith Thorsen, of Creative Hastings. "Plans are going well, the line-up for the parade is bigger than we've ever had before with about 1000 peopleeither on floats or walking in groups on the street," Mr Thorsen said. "The weather forecast is looking great, too, so people should definitely come along." It's the biggest community event of the year in Hastings and it will be celebrated by a whole week of festivities, including the carnival which kicks off tomorrow night, the parade on Saturday and the fireworks display on Saturday, September 22. Jazz artist Whirimako Black will begin the festival tonight at the Hawke's Bay Opera House. Joining her is guitar legend Nigel Gavin, formerly of the Nairobi Trio, and member of the Jews Brothers and Bravura. Tickets are $30 and are available through Ticket Direct. * For information on tonight's concert and a programme of events see Bayscene magazine.
