For almost 50 years the River Festival has been an iconic attraction that has been woven into the very fabric of our community – attracting visitors borough wide and beyond it is a showcase of our heritage, history, incredible community, fantastic independent shops and more.
As your Mayor, it is an honour for the second time to work with everyone from Councill officers to volunteers and other stakeholders to make sure each River Festival under my term is even bigger and better than before.
So, what are we doing this year to showcase our Borough at its best?
Although it goes without saying, across the festival weekend we have an incredible blend of events and activities from live music to bushcraft demonstrations, the Festival of Motoring, river displays and arts exhibitions.
And this year, there will be even more to enjoy, with a range of new attractions adding to our much-loved favourites. I don’t want to spoil the surprise, just know that like me, I am certain you will come across something new this year.
As with the last River Festival, we are continuing our family-first approach by making sure our biggest events are welcoming, accessible and enjoyable for children, parents, carers and residents of all ages.
This year, St Mary’s Gardens will once again host a dedicated family area, with a full programme of activities and workshops taking place across both days. We’re also delighted to welcome back our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) team who will be there to assist all families and children.
A huge thank you goes to our brilliant Council Staff, volunteers and headline sponsors Gallagher Developments and Universal United Kingdom Resort for making this possible.
Bedford at its best
The River Festival is one of many events that shows why I love this, Borough.
During the last few months, I have had the pleasure of attending a number of cultural and community events across the Borough, from flag-raising ceremonies to the annual Bedford Regatta along our stunning Embankment.
At the Regatta, it was fantastic to see so many teams from across the country taking part, with visitors also travelling from places including France and Barcelona to be here in Bedford Borough. With Universal United Kingdom Resort on the horizon, I dare say our town and wider Borough will only become more international in the years ahead.
That is why our festivals, cultural celebrations, sporting events and community gatherings matter so much. They show the world our heritage, our diversity, our local talent – they show exactly what makes Bedford Borough such a special place to be.
Let’s keep getting out there to support each other
That is why I will continue to champion events that bring people into our Borough. Many of these events are free, family-friendly and open to everyone, so I would encourage residents to get out, take part and support the brilliant events happening across our Borough.
Because when Bedford Borough comes together, there really is nowhere quite like it. Do, please come along to the River Festival, there is something for everyone.
