From photo challenges and special performances to cruises along a historic canal and garden parties, businesses, community groups and individuals have enthusiastically embraced Norfolk Day with a range of events already planned.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Day Walcott Beach GENERIC Picture: ANTONY KELLYNorfolk Day Walcott Beach GENERIC Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2018)

As the countdown towards the July 27 initiative continues, ideas for the ways in which county residents plan to celebrate continue to stream in.

The Norfolk Community Foundation said it will run a community photo challenge as part of Norfolk Day celebrations 'to represent the community groups and charities across Norfolk that we work with'.

The challenge will officially be launched in May and groups will be asked to send in photographs capturing community projects in their area.

'We want to showcase the amazing people, activities and places that are at the heart of our community,' said marketing executive Helen Tuttle.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Day ambassador Rev Jane Hedges.Picture: Nick ButcherNorfolk Day ambassador Rev Jane Hedges.Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant © 2018)

ABA Procurement, a Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply training company, said it had a number of Norfolk businesses enrolled with it.

'We're hoping to run an offer during the whole week leading up to Norfolk Day, giving a 5pc discount off our training programme for all businesses with NR postcodes to allow their students to attend our Norwich courses,' the company said in an email.

Details will be posted on its website nearer the time.

Burgh House Residential Care Home in Burgh Castle is planning a garden party for residents and their families on the day.

Eastern Daily Press: Norfolk Day is on Friday 27th July. Pictured is the Lighthouse at Old Hunstanton. Picture: Ian BurtNorfolk Day is on Friday 27th July. Pictured is the Lighthouse at Old Hunstanton. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

'We intend to have some form of live entertainment, organise a raffle with proceeds going to the residents fund and our cooks will prepare a summer buffet,' said Julie Church-Greiner.

The Assembly House in Norwich said it would run 'an extra special' Norfolk Day-themed afternoon tea, while the North Walsham and Dilham Canal Trust said it would give people the opportunity to cruise along the North Walsham and Dilham Canal.

Norwich Cathedral will throw open its doors for a series of performances and choirs, soloists, drama or dance groups, writers and poets are encouraged to get involved.

To share your ideas on how you plan to celebrate email norfolkday@archant.co.uk, tweet @norfolk_day or log on to the Norfolk Day Facebook group.

How to order your Norfolk Day pack

An online shop has been launched selling Norfolk Day marketing material which event organisers can display on the day.

The shop is selling a four-pack of flags, four-pack of A3 posters and 20 balloons at £4, while 5m of bunting is £7.50.

Celebration packs containing all of the above are also available for £15.

Norfolk Day takes place on Friday, July 27 and is intended as a day of fun in which individuals, community groups and businesses are encouraged to get involved by hosting or participating in events.

The initiative was launched by the EDP and Norwich Evening News in partnership with BBC Radio Norfolk and has the backing of business and several community organisations who are planning events for the day.

Details of events will be revealed in the newspaper, online and via social media.

To order Norfolk Day materials, visit: The Norfolk Day Shop

Estimated delivery time is 28 days.