THE fashion-conscious in Gloucester are brimming with excitement ahead of the city's second annual Hat Festival.
The madcap event, which takes place on Friday, July 12 and Saturday, July 13, celebrates all things hat-related.
The festival offers a range of activities and events to suit all ages and interests, and this year, organisers are basing the event on an eco-friendly theme.
From free Mad Hatter Tea Parties for primary school children taking part in the parade, to a glamorous ball finale, the festivities will offer something for everyone.
Festival director Anna Buckland said: "After the overwhelming response and huge success we had last year, we are excited to host another festival this July.
"It is set to be even bigger and better particularly with our sister event, The Gloucester Youth Arts Festival, launching this year just days before.
"We're hoping that this unusual celebration combined with a series of unmissable events will really get the community involved and the centre buzzing; after all, what we do and why we do it is to encourage community spirit."
The city will be divided into three 'hat zones' fusing culture with creativity.
Before the festival, organisers Global Arts Inc Ltd are running hat-making workshops throughout the city for school children and community organisations.
Gloucester town crier Alan Myatt confesses he is the owner of around 40 different hats.
He said: "If you want to get ahead, get a hat.
"I have been collecting hats for years and I have a hat for every occasion.
"This event will be great and it will bring plenty of people into the city."
Meanwhile, volunteers are being called up to help the event run smoothly.
People can register their interest online at www.hatfestival.co.uk or they can contact Anna Buckland via email at annabuckland @live.co.uk.