Dr Samuel Johnson. Courtesy Samuel Johnson Birthplace
To celebrate the 300th birthday of Dr Samuel Johnson, the writer of the first dictionary, a host of events is taking place in Lichfield where the great man was born.
On Friday September 18, Dr Johnson’s birthday, there will be a spectacular light and sound show in the Market Place, with live performances suitable for all the family.
The celebrations continue on Saturday with a ceremony in Market Square with live music, followed by cake at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum. A special book fair will also take place at Wade Street Church Hall on Saturday in honour of Dr Johnson’s love of books.
The celebrations do not stop in Lichfield. Dr Johnson’s house in London, where he compiled his famous dictionary, will be open for free to the public on Friday and Saturday. There will also be celebratory cake and more fun activities.
To find out about other events celebrating the tercentenary of Dr Johnson’s birth, visit the tercentenary website
