NewburyFest: let’s get it started in here

Summer is finally here! The sun is shining (in-between the torrential downpours), the sandals and shorts are on, and many of us are dreaming about heading to the sea to enjoy an ice cream with the sand between our toes. Summer is a time for celebration, and this year Newbury is doing it in style.

From Saturday 25 June to Sunday 24 July, we’re hosting our summer-long party, NewburyFest, and everyone’s invited. Join us for amazing food, great music and outstanding entertainment at over 20 events taking place across the town.

NewburyFest kicks off at The Watermill Theatre with a production of Watership Down, followed by an explosion of street entertainment in the town centre with Newbury Artisan Market, Rotary Boules and a special parade by the Royal British Legion. With so much fun in the sun, here we share some of the highlights:

Let me entertain you

If you fancy an evening out with your loved one or group of friends, why not head to one of Newbury’s amazing restaurants, and then catch a show. Amateur dramatics group, the New Era Players will perform Pride and Prejudice, while a two-hour dance and music extravaganza, Rhythm of the Dance, features a live band and 22 dancers. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something completely different, checkout The Card Ninja; more than a magician, he uses ordinary playing cards as weapons with unfathomable precision, speed and power.

Music makes the people come together

Perhaps a night of drinks, dancing and great music are more your thing. Newbury Racecourse is hosting a number of live music events throughout the summer. Join them for a day’s racing, then celebrate your win in style at Motown Live Night, a musical celebration featuring Motown and soul classics, or see Simply Red perform on stage. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, join us for Proms at Parkway to experience the best in local classical music while you shop.

We're S-H-O-PP-I-N-G, we're shopping

It’s out with the old and in with the new; summer is a great excuse to treat yourself to a new wardrobe. Join us for Parkway's Summer Street Party, featuring live music, acrobats, Punch & Judy show and great instore discounts. Then it’s time to hit the town again for Shop Local Week, which promotes Newbury’s many independent shops alongside the larger chains, with fun competitions, prizes, and street music. Or for something a bit different try Parkway En Provence, a traditional French market complete with caricaturist, mime acts and accordion player.

'Cause it's my party, I do, do what I want

This summer there’s something for everyone in Newbury. To see a full list of events and start planning your staycation, visit NewburyFest.