Surbiton's Ski Sunday returns on Sunday 16 October 2022

After a five-year hiatus -- it's back! The Surbiton Ski Sunday & King's Soup celebrations are set to take place on Sunday 16 October.

The fun and free competition, which runs from 11am to 1pm, will see the pavement in front of the shops in Central Parade, in St Mark's Hill -- just a stone’s throw from Surbiton Railway Station – transformed into a ski slope using a long piece of super-slippery lino.

Then throughout the morning, daredevil competitors – individuals or teams and many in costume – will showcase their sporting prowess and gravity-defying deftness, as they attempt to “ski” their way downhill to the roar of the crowd.

“If you thought skiing was reserved for the wealthy in places like Chamonix or Val d'Isère then think again,” explains Robin Hutchinson MBE, founder and director of The Community Brain.

“With Surbiton’s Ski Sunday we’re democratising skiing while showing how with a little imagination and community help, anywhere can become a playground."

"With Surbiton’s Ski Sunday we’re democratising skiing while showing how with a little imagination and community help, anywhere can become a playground." Robin Hutchinson MBE, founder and director of The Community Brain

This year’s Ski Sunday is extra special because, due to poor weather in 2017 and 2018, then COVID, this will be the first one for five years.

HOW TO ENTER

If you fancy giving it a go, Surbiton Ski Sunday is a free event that’s open to everyone, and you can sign up on the day. Some safety equipment will be provided, but if you have your own, please bring it with you – along with a costume of your choice!

THE KING’S SOUP

Later in the afternoon, there’s a change of pace as the focus moves to Claremont Gardens in Surbiton (see map below) for The King’s Soup celebration. Inspired by a local folktale about a selfish king who changes his bad ways after tasting a soup made by a collective of villagers, this event celebrates togetherness and community.

Like in the story, everyone is encouraged to donate a vegetable as a contribution to a collective soup for the whole community to enjoy with their family, friends and neighbours. Plus, there will be live music from local performers and the chance to enjoy the original The King's Soup story to learn more about how it all began.

The day’s events will also be used to raise funds for the Mayor of Kingston’s Charitable Trust, which is supporting The Community Brain and its sister charity, Creative Youth.

Where to find Claremont Gardens, Surbiton