Whitby Goth Weekend, and its growing popularity

Whitby is without a doubt called the 'Goth Capital of Great Britain'; not unexpected when one considers that on a couple of weekends in the year (close to April and October) great numbers of people converge in the town in celebration of all things 'Gothic'. The initial concept belonged to Jo Hampshire, who, in 1994 along with a group of mates, came to Whitby for the very first Goth Festival. Whitby was probably picked due to its associations with Dracula, (Bram Stoker holidayed in Whitby and drew his inspiration for the book from the Abbey). As the annual event grew to be more and more popular it was decided to have the festival twice yearly. Over the weekends that the events are being held, the entire town seems to embrace the Gothic mood. Some retailers and public houses decorate their premises with spiders, skulls, cobwebs and other paraphernalia, in line with the general mood of the Gothic visitors. Several of these tourists have most elaborate outfits encompassing a wide variety of styles. Beautiful crinoline gowns in shades from black through red to white are worn, many with veils, some with parasols and some with splendid velvety cloaks. The men can be seen in top hats and tails, stunning morning suits with silver canes and spats. Recently there's been a divergence into outfits related to the punk and new world movement, each equally fascinating to see with spikey hair, kilts, fishnet stockings. Music has been incorporated into the bigger picture, with groups and performers showcasing their talents at the Whitby Pavilion, Metropole Hotel and other venues. Some 'big name' acts are beginning to attend the functions now such is the rise in popularity of these weekends both in this country but also worldwide. The Pavilion has been home to some 'black market' markets held in the lower basement. Stalls showing a wide range of Gothic garments, footwear, music and memorabilia are on sale, an interesting view into the Gothic psyche for those of the more 'normal' persuasion. It is the generally held view amongst the local population of the town that the Gothic visitors are extremely welcome and indeed a number of the townsfolk themselves embrace the dress-style and frequent the various functions held. A growing number of families are visiting the town at these weekends with children and even babies in costume along with people of every age group even those in their eighties and possible older! St. Mary's Parish Church on the East Cliff alongside the Abbey has been the venue for the renewal of many wedding vows amongst the Gothic community and the Registry Office has seen an increase in the number of civil marriages celebrated here, all with the Gothic theme. The majority of the participants in the festival weekends are more than happy to pose for pictures as they stroll around the town and seafront. On the cliff top near to St.Mary's Graveyard and the Abbey, photographers can be found in abundance taking atmospheric shots of the Goths in period dress amongst the gravestones or with the backdrop of the 199 steps, Caedmon's Cross and the harbour view. The history of Whitby has a very diverse and chequered past befitting its Gothic connections, from its gargoyles and chimeras which adorn a number of churches to its Pagan Green man which is on a stone frieze carved on St. Hildas' C of E Church on Church Square. A walk around the town's oldest buildings will invariably show a large amount of gargoyles and mysterious symbols, a fascinating insight into the past history and the emerging new history of the town of Whitby.