Grantham Plans Festival for Margaret Thatcher 100th Birthday

Grantham, the hometown of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, is preparing to host a week-long festival in October 2025 to mark the 100th anniversary of her birth. South Kesteven District Council, led by Ashley Baxter, is coordinating the event, which aims to provide a balanced and fair representation of Thatcher's impact on the UK and the world. Proposed activities include themed beers named after Thatcher, such as “Iron Lady” and “Grantham Lass,” as well as theatre productions, art, and various performances organized by community groups. The council is working with multiple stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach, avoiding overlapping events and encouraging community participation. Although specific program details are still being finalized, the festival reflects an effort to acknowledge Thatcher’s legacy in a town where opinions about her remain divided. The anniversary is also seen as a significant cultural moment for Grantham, coinciding with other local historical celebrations like the 300th anniversary of Isaac Newton’s death.