19 January 2000

Strawberry Fields tribute to the Beatles

2-5pm, 23 January 1999, North Hagley Park

Beatles fans of all ages will delight in the sounds to be heard at this year’s SummerTimes Strawberry Fields concert in Hagley Park on Sunday 23 January.

To mark last year’s 20^th Anniversary of John Lennon’s death, organisers have this year dedicated Strawberry Fields to the music of Lennon and the Beatles. Most of their classic songs will be performed by sixties music specialist Graham Wardrop and band, Flashback. Flashback includes some of Christchurch’s best known entertainers including: vocalist/guitarist Pat Kearns, Bass guitarist Tom Rainey, and keyboard/vocalist Liz Braggins.

As Strawberry Fields takes shape, North Hagley Park transforms into a mini Woodstock with concert-goers arriving wearing flares, tie-dyed shirts and headbands. Teenagers especially seem to love the atmosphere of peace, love and happiness and when they’re not dancing they’re making daisy chain head bands and painting their faces with peace signs or flowers. Meanwhile those old enough to remember the era first-hand generally tend to enjoy the show in a more laid back way from their picnic spots in the shade.

While sixties and seventies fashion is a big part of the event, it’s ultimately the music of the era that makes Strawberry Fields such an enjoyable occasion. This year’s tribute to the phenomenal music of John Lennon and the Beatles is bound to appeal to concert-goers of all ages. Wear your best "Flower Power" outfit, pack a picnic, and join the fun at North Hagley Park between 2 and 5pm on Sunday.

Site Information

Free, secure cycle parking will be available under the trees by the cycleway. Car parking is available in Hagley Park for $3, enter off the Westbound lane of Harper Avenue (gates open at 1pm and close at 6pm). Food, refreshments and free squirts of sunblock will be available on site. Those attending are asked not to park on the grassed strip along Park Terrace or walk across the golf course.