ALL roads will lead to York next weekend for the third annual York Heritage Weekend that will showcase the heritage of the state’s first inland settlement and the Avon Valley.

Organised by the York Business Association, the weekend of events will centre around the historic York Town Hall which will play host to a range of demonstrations, displays and talks.

On show will be a large display by York RSL members, along with a presentation by members of the Western Australian Military digital library who will discuss the importance of preserving historical military memorabilia and how to access the service.

York Business Association president, Karen Thomas, said York had a strong history of cycling and this was something the association intended to expand.

The WA Historical Cycling Club will have a display in the town hall and will also give two talks – The Social History of Cycling and crossing the Nullarbor Plain on a BMX.

“This year we have promoted from and including Anzac Day to encourage people to stay or use York as the base to explore the Avon valley region,” she said.

All the usual historical places will be open over the weekend including the Motor Museum, Court House Cultural Centre, and the Residency Museum, (admission fees apply).

There will also be two other historical talks by heritage architect Eric Hancock, demonstrations of traditional carving and refurbishing antique furniture along with a display by the local fire and rescue volunteers.

“The WA Historical Cycling Club have been with us from the beginning and the parade of old bicycles especially the Penny Farthings is a show not to be missed,” Ms Thomas said.

The centenary anniversary of the CWA is also featured with the York branch putting on a varied programme of demonstrations and showcasing their many achievements over the years, not to mention copious amounts of scones, jam and cream and the never-ending discussion about which goes on first.

“There is a strong emphasis on music this year with the opening event being a concert in the stable yard of the Old Court House featuring local musicians and poetry readings and recitals.

This is entry by donation and a BYO event for the whole family and there are attractions from 6pm when the gates open through to 10pm.

The musical highlight will be the Mucky Duck Bush Band at Historic Faversham House on Saturday evening, a mere $25 will get you a great evening of bush music in this classic historic setting.

There will also be wandering minstrels throughout the town on Saturday and Sunday as well as at the Settlers Hotel and restaurant.

“Saturday also sees the Morris Dancers hit town and they will be delighted to show you how to join in and avoid getting clobbered by those large sticks,” Ms Thomas said.

Sunday is family day with traditional games at the RSL on Avon Terrace featuring skittles, dominoes, quoits and so much more, including a visit from the miniature donkeys.

Sunday you can also try your hand at croquet at a have a go day at the York Croquet Club.

“Most events are either free or by donation and this is due to the generosity of local businesses and organisations giving freely of their time and expertise,” she said.