Yarn Bombers surprise Hertford with Cinderella-themed Christmas display
A secret society of Yarn Bombers have been hard at work decorating Hertford for the festive season with a handmade Cinderella-themed installation
A surprise awaits visitors to Hertford this weekend, as the Secret Society of Yarn Bombers has unveiled a Cinderella-themed display just in time for the town’s annual Christmas Gala. The group, known for its community-driven art projects, has brought a touch of magic to Hertford’s festive celebrations, creating a handcrafted wonderland that captures the spirit of the season.
Standing at the centre of the display is a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, adorned with intricate knitted decorations inspired by the classic Cinderella tale. Melanie Delaney, a member of the Yarn Bombers, described the unique ornaments. “On the tree, we have mice invitations to a ball, glass slippers, bells, and decorations made from recycled bottles,” said Melanie. “There are also knitted clocks and even a knitted pumpkin coach.”
The entire installation was a secret project, completed without the knowledge of the local theatre, which is featuring Cinderella as its first pantomime of the season. “The theatre didn’t know we were doing this, so it was a surprise to them as well,” Melanie explained. “Our community is so important to us here in Hertford, and we wanted to link it all together.”
Around the tree, visitors will find castle turrets, walls, and a moat—transforming the scene into a fairy tale setting. The castle walls feature 22 vignettes of dancers enjoying a grand ball, including Cinderella, Prince Charming, and other colourful characters. Hidden surprises are scattered throughout the display, with little details waiting to be discovered. “We even have a children’s quiz which can be downloaded, so children can come and find hidden details in the installation,” Melanie said.
The display also has playful nods to pop culture, including a scene from the classic film Dirty Dancing. In one corner, a knitted version of Johnny and Baby performs the iconic lift from the film’s finale. Other whimsical touches include two mischievous characters, named Noel and Liam, attempting to sneak into the castle—a tongue-in-cheek nod to Christmas and pop culture.
The Yarn Bombers’ installation also aims to be inclusive. One vignette features a wheelchair user being proposed to, highlighting the group’s focus on representation. “We always try to be inclusive in everything we do. No one was told to add that; it just happened, and it’s beautiful,” said Melanie.
Each part of the display showcases the dedication and creativity of the group, with some pieces taking months to complete. Melanie shared a story of one particularly detailed scene, where a couple celebrates their 45th wedding anniversary. “One of the dancers has a dress with 1,000 sequins sewn onto it,” she said. “People spend so much time and so much detail goes into the work.”
This year’s Cinderella installation ties into Hertford’s annual Christmas Gala, which starts tonight and includes the town’s festive light switch-on. The Gala serves as a backdrop for the Yarn Bombers’ creation, adding to the town’s celebration of local art and community spirit.
Melanie summed up the display’s impact, highlighting the group’s dedication to bringing joy to Hertford’s residents. “The creativity just flows, and people work on these things for months before they’re installed. I think you can see that passion in every piece.”
The festive installation will remain in place throughout the weekend.