The SoGlos team has dug deep into the online magazine’s archives and trawled hundreds of official sources to select some of the very finest Gloucestershire festivals to grace the county on an annual basis.
From world-renowned jump racing, cricket and literature festivals and independent music celebrations spanning big names and local talent, to colourful carnivals, beer bonanzas and foodie feasts, you’re sure to find your perfect festival for 2013 with SoGlos.
Festivals are organised by area, with subsections dedicated to Cheltenham, the Cotswolds, the Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Stroud and Tewkesbury respectively, and then ordered by calendar month. Enjoy!
Festival: Cheltenham Folk Festival
When: Annually in February
Expect to find: Hundreds of music fans flocking to the Regency town of Cheltenham for a three-day, foot-stomping celebration of folk, taking in live music, dancing, workshops, children’s events, good food and more real ale than you can shake a morris stick at – all rounded off nicely with a concert finale at Cheltenham Town Hall. Previous line-ups have featured Kan, Gavin Davenport, Spiers and Boden, Andy Cutting, the Sheffield Folk Chorale and the Nic Jones Trio.
SoGlos loves: Hardened festival-goers travelling to Cheltenham for the entire weekend can forget facing the freezing February frost and enjoy indoor camping, just a five-minute stroll from Cheltenham Town Hall, at St Luke’s Church Hall.
For more info: See Cheltenham Folk Festival or call 0844 576 2210.
Festival: Cheltenham Festival and Gold Cup
When: Annually in March
Expect to find: Huge hats and hundreds of hooves pounding Cheltenham’s historic racecourse over four days. This annual highlight of the horseracing calendar sees thousands of visitors place millions of pounds in bets and witness high-calibre racing stock battle it out for first place across the line.
SoGlos loves: The final day and sure highlight of the festival – the race for the coveted Cheltenham Gold Cup. A fantastic atmosphere, brimming with anticipation, live music, entertainment and food, ensuring racing fans return time and time again.
For more info: See Cheltenham Festival and Gold Cup or call 0844 579 3003.
Festival: Prescott Bike Festival
When: Annually in April
Expect to find: A host of bike manufacturers; a large display of historic, modern and race bikes in the paddock; more bike clubs than ever; celebrity appearances and entertainment for all the family. Plus the chance to support the Severn Freewheelers, a volunteer-run local charity which provides emergency motorcycle delivery services to the local NHS and is responsible for moving vital medical supplies, and even frozen milk for premature babies, throughout Gloucestershire.
SoGlos loves: Nab one of the limited availability Run the Hill tickets and you’ll be able to follow in the footsteps of racing legends and ride the hill – while taking along a passenger for the ride.
For more info: See Prescott Bike Festival or call (01285) 657412.
Festival: Cheltenham Jazz Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: One of the most famous Cheltenham festivals, the Jazz Festival can be relied upon to showcase the cream of the jazz crop, as well as an eclectic array of performances from rising stars, music veterans and the region’s favourite DJs. The festival boasts a legion of loyal fans, who return time and time again for this exuberant event, which has certainly earned its reputation in recent years.
SoGlos loves: Creative and innovative in style, and keen to embrace the contemporary, Cheltenham Jazz Festival is never afraid to be a little adventurous and shows a continued commitment to broadening the jazz fan base. The 2013 line-up includes the likes of indie duo Noisettes, Grammy Award-winning Van Morrison and the legendary Georgie Fame.
For more info: See Cheltenham Jazz Festival or call 0844 880 8094.
Festival: Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: A medley of dance, music, speech and drama as part of one of the town’s longest-running festivals – a mass celebration of the performing arts, complete with dramatic presentations, recitals and musical performances. The festival encourages competitors of all ages to get involved and spectators can enjoy a warm and energetic atmosphere throughout.
SoGlos loves: The festival has been running for more than 80 years and is still going strong – certainly helping to put Cheltenham on the map as a place of notable cultural heritage.
For more info: See Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts.
Festival: GWR Cotswold Festival of Steam
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: A must for rail enthusiasts and train spotters alike, this spectacular four-day event comprises everything train fans young and old could wish for – from static locomotive displays, to train rides and a wealth of history on the Great Western Railway.
SoGlos loves: Visitors can take a trip across the stunning Stanway Viaduct and experience the panoramic views it boasts, thanks to the recent refurbishment of the awe-inspiring structure.
For more info: See GWR Cotswold Festival of Steam or call (01242) 621405.
Festival: Wychwood Music Festival
When: Annually in late May/June
Expect to find: A family-friendly festival encompassing a multitude of performances, from up-and-coming new acts to festival favourites – with The Human League, The Beat, Caravan Palace, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain and many more already confirmed for 2013. Children can get involved with dance and storytelling workshops or arty projects, and families can sit down to quirky cinematic screenings or have a chuckle at the comedians in attendance.
SoGlos loves: Wychwood Music Festival’s healing gardens, which offer a range of massage and holistic treatments to chill you right out and get you into the festival mood.
For more info: See Wychwood Festival or call (01993) 772580.
Festival: The Times Cheltenham Science Festival
When: Annually in June
Expect to find: More than 300 of the world’s most revered scientists, thinkers, performers, comedians and writers coming together for six-days of cutting edge discoveries, provocative debates, comedy, cabaret, family fun, hands-on experiments and workshops, exploring everything from DNA and medicine to comets and the humble cup of tea.
SoGlos loves: In 2013, festival-goers can look forward getting the inside scoop from Higgs boson expert physicist Peter Higgs, learning the story behind the discovery of DNA structure with Jenifer Glynn, joining astronomers hoping to get a rare glimpse of a comet as it passes close to earth, and much more.
For more info: See Cheltenham Science Festival or call 0844 880 8094.
Festival: Cheltenham Music Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A cacophony of sound for classical connoisseurs encompassing more than 60 events and 650 performers, served up in a range of orchestral ensembles, solo acts and group efforts, and boasting a mix of world premieres and one-off collaborations, all hosted in some of the county’s most beautiful venues.
SoGlos loves: Class acts from all over the world, infusing contemporary ideas into classical styles and appealing to veteran classical fans and new ears alike. The festival demonstrates that this is a genre of music that is far from dead – with a continually growing audience. Acts for the 2013 event already confirmed include City of the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Brit award-winning Nicola Benedetti, a cappella legends The Swingle Singers and The Tallis Scholars.
For more info: See Cheltenham Music Festival or call 0844 880 8094.
Festival: Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: One of the most successful cricket festivals in the world, and the most anticipated event on the Gloucestershire cricketing calendar, thousands of avid cricket fans flock to Cheltenham to watch the county’s finest bat against teams from across the UK. The 2013 festival will take in an LV= County Championship, a Friends Life t20 match and more, all in the idyllic setting of Cheltenham College.
SoGlos loves: The opportunity for young people to get involved, with those fancying themselves as the next Freddie Flintoff able to take advantage of sessions with top coaches in the designated game zone area.
For more info: See Cheltenham Cricket Festival or call (0117) 910 8010.
Festival: Cheltenham Open-Air Theatre Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A sea of music lovers, drama fans, film buffs and local families laden with deck chairs and picnics, spilling outside of Bacon Theatre, all ready to take in some alfresco entertainment spanning mellow music, sophisticated Shakespeare, classic cinema, quirky theatre productions and colourful family fun under the stars. 2013 will be the festival’s 10th birthday, so expect the biggest and best yet.
SoGlos loves: Each year the Open-Air Theatre Festival closes with the ever-popular Jazz on a Summer’s Evening, which usually sees Cheltenham’s answer to Jools Holland, Peter Gill, provide a fantastic helping of cool jazz, blues and boogie woogie, that’s perfect for a balmy summer’s evening – and finishing with a bang thanks to a spectacular fireworks finale.
For more info: See Cheltenham Open Air Theatre Festival or call (01242) 258002.
Festival: Cheltenham Ballroom & Latin Dance Festival
When: Annually in August
Expect to find: Frills and sparkles galore, along with some highly impressive displays of skill, agility and movement during this four-day feast of dance, held in the grand setting of Cheltenham Town Hall. Boasting something to suit everyone, from beginners to experts and fans of Strictly Come Dancing, the annual celebration of dance features salsa, rumba, jive, tango, quickstep, waltz, cha cha cha and ceroc – with the chance to learn some moves from the professionals always a popular pull with festival-goers.
SoGlos loves: The Ladies Night and Black & White Balls are the perfect excuse to dress to impress and show off your new moves to some live, big band music, with dinner and cabaret also on the cards.
For more info: See Cheltenham Ballroom & Latin Dance Festival or call 0844 576 2210.
Festival: Greenbelt Festival
When: Annually in August
Expect to find: A bank holiday musical extravaganza full of live acts, family-friendly activities and stimulating talks courtesy of the country’s leading thinkers. Held at Cheltenham Racecourse, Greenbelt is an arts, faith and justice festival with roots in the Christian tradition. While big name acts perform across five stages, spirituality and comedy can also be found in abundance, and there’s a whole host of visual and performing arts in which to indulge.
SoGlos loves: Greenbelt takes pride in its cultural, spiritual and political engagement – recently spearheading a campaign based around the Israel-Palestine conflict and also supporting those being exploited and oppressed overseas – so it’s more than just a chance to party.
For more info: See Greenbelt Festival or call 020 7329 0039.
Festival: Cheltenham Literature Festival
When: Annually in October
Expect to find: A ten-day literary feast for book lovers across the land, including hard-hitting debates between some of the biggest names in publishing, comedy from the country’s top stand-ups, interactive media sessions, unique food and drink evenings, writing workshops and masses of family fun talks and activities. The prestigious festival has hosted a string of big literary names over the years, including JK Rowling, Ian Rankin, Terry Pratchett and Ruth Rendell, as well as entertainment veterans such as Sir Michael Parkinson, Michael Palin and Sir Roger Moore.
SoGlos loves: Formed in 1949, the Cheltenham Literature Festival is the oldest of its kind worldwide and has earned itself a global renown.
For more info: See Cheltenham Literature Festival or call 0844 880 8094.
Festival: Hobgoblin Cheltenham Comedy Festival
When: Annually in November
Expect to find: An enviable line-up of stand-up, cabaret and fringe shows spanning the cream of the crop and up-and-coming comics, performing across various venues in Cheltenham, and promising plenty of laughs for fans of funny nationwide. Previous years have seen the likes of Rhod Gilbert, Alexei Sayle, Frankie Boyle, Julian Clary, Stephen K. Amos and Robin Ince make the bill.
SoGlos loves: Not just aimed at adults, the comedy festival also keeps mini comedy fans entertained with a family fun day, free workshops , face painting, craft activities and walkabout performances too.
For more info: See Hobgoblin Cheltenham Comedy Festival or call 0844 576 2210.
Festival: Chipping Campden Literature Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: Evidence that the literature bug is spreading – Chipping Campden enthusiastically jumped on the bookish bandwagon in 2010, aiming to provide the people of Gloucestershire with a further source of literary goodness. Visitors can expect a celebration of the written word with talks, readings, film screenings and workshops on everything from the joy of reading and creative writing to paper making and poetry.
SoGlos loves: Set in an official Area of Outstanding Beauty, visitors will be able to take in the stunning architecture of this historic market town while nurturing their intellectual sides.
For more info: See Chipping Campden Literature Festival or call (01386) 841222.
Festival: Lechlade Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: Live music from more than 60 bands to satisfy a dizzy array of tastes – from ska and swing to rock and reggae – spread over two stages and three days, not to mention kids entertainment, glamping, a real ale bar, waffle wagon, mashed tea tent and much more.
SoGlos loves: The chance to soak up the sounds and sunshine on the banks of the river Thames, in stunning Cotswolds countryside.
For more info: See Lechlade Festival or call (01367) 252500.
Festival: Bledington Music Festival
When: Annually in June
Expect to find: Oodles of acts across three summer evenings at St Leonard’s Church in the pretty village of Bledington – spanning a variety of musicians from harpists and flautists, to string quartets and bagpipe players. Already confirmed for the 2013 event will be performances from internationally-acclaimed pianists The Cann Twins, the Pavão String Quartet and organist Thomas Trotter with oboist and cor anglais player Celia Craig.
SoGlos loves: To get local children interested in music and performance, the festival runs a very successful educational programme, during which a selection of artists get involved in a mini concert with the pupils of local primary schools.
For more info: See Bledington Music Festival or call (01608) 658669.
Festival: Cotswold Beer Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: This annual sell-out event allows visitors to test out hundreds of local ales while relaxing in a friendly and jovial atmosphere. Here the equally anticipated new Champion Beer of Gloucestershire is announced, decided by a formidable panel of expert ale judges from the Campaign for Real Ale in Gloucestershire.
SoGlos loves: The chance for all county-dwellers to try the Champion Beer when this year’s winning beverage is installed in pubs and bars across Gloucestershire for all to enjoy.
For more info: See Cotswold Beer Festival or call (01242) 527068.
Festival: Tetbury Food and Drink Festival
When: Annually in September
Expect to find: A variety of local produce courtesy of the region’s finest bakeries, cheese and honey-makers, vineyards, farms, smokehouses and mills. Tetbury’s businesses, restaurants and pubs jump at the opportunity to be involved with this popular event, meaning the very best in food and drink for all that attend.
SoGlos loves: For those that enjoy a tipple or two, Tetbury Food and Drink Festival also puts on wine and ale tasting, as well as tours of the local vineyard, plus there’s also live music, cookery lessons and specially created menus, and a dedicated children’s area to boot.
For more info: See Tetbury Food and Drink Festival.
Festival: Coleford Carnival of Transport
When: Annually in April
Expect to find: An event organised by motoring fans, for motoring fans, taking place on the streets of Coleford in the Forest of Dean. More than 600 classic vehicles of all types and periods are displayed in the town centre, which is closed for the event. These include vintage and classic cars, custom and street rods, military and commercial vehicles and motorcycles – so you may well end up taking a trip down memory lane and discovering your very first car or bike.
SoGlos loves: Art exhibitions and craft shows, as well as a model railway exhibition also form part of this spring event, to cater for those with more creative interests.
For more info: See Coleford Carnival of Transport.
Festival: Dean Fire and Wood Festival
When: Annually in June
Expect to find: A three-day event encompassing a range of displays and demonstrations to celebrate all things natural, complete with local artisans and including chainsaw carving, a traditional charcoal burn, lumberjacks, fire juggling, pyrography and bushcrafts. The Dean Fire and Wood Festival also and provides ample opportunity to get involved in traditional activities such as Romano British cooking, pottery making and natural fabric dying.
SoGlos loves: The five acres of Forest land in which to turn a pole lathe or get involved in charcoal burning – the festival’s gorgeous surroundings make for a great family day out.
For more info: See Dean Fire and Wood Festival or call (01594) 822170.
Festival: Coleford Festival of Words
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A sharing of laughter, creativity and knowledge with guest speakers, local authors, interactive workshops, live performances, poetry and storytelling. Budding writers also have the chance to pick up some useful tips from experts from across the field.
SoGlos loves: The fun-filled family events encouraging the young from across the Forest of Dean to dip into a book.
For more info: See Coleford Festival of Words or call (01594) 833334.
Festival: Westbury Festival
When: Annually in August
Expect to find: A family-friendly music festival encompassing a melting pot of live bands, DJs and a silent disco, plus fairground rides, bouncy castles and face painting to keep the little ones entertained. Westbury Festival also boasts more than 30 ciders and a full range of draft beers and ales for the thirsty, and a hog roast and barbecue to tempt those tastebuds, making this an unmissable summer affair. The year 2012 saw local legends EMF and rising Britpop band Missing Andy headline the main stage.
SoGlos loves: Not to exclude the big kids from joining in the fun, organisers line up a welly wanging and tug of war competition, with a keg of cider up for grabs for the winner.
For more info: See Westbury Festival or call 07866 922985.
Festival: Carducci Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: A series of high quality family concerts and performances that focus on the critically acclaimed Carducci Quartet – a contemporary quartet committed to bringing classical music to the younger generation. Each year the quartet is joined by a variety of classical virtuosos, all doing their bit to add to the festival’s superb reputation. The 2013 event will see star Irish pianist Finghin Collins, chamber musician Simon Rowland-Jones and oboist Nicholas Daniel share the bill.
SoGlos loves: In accordance with the festival’s main aim of bringing classical music to young people, the fact tickets are free of charge to anyone aged 25 and under, is commendable.
For more info: See Carducci Festival or call (01452) 396572.
Festival: Gloucester Tall Ships Festival
When: Biennially in May
Expect to find: A four-day festival held in celebration of Gloucester’s historic docks, one of the city’s most popular attractions, to honour its trading era. The festival features replica ships that accurately and impressively represent the original structures, live music, street entertainment, comedy, boat trips and a whole host of family-friendly entertainment.
SoGlos loves: The atmosphere of a bygone century, recreated with all the hustle and bustle of crews readying themselves to set sail, and the promise of exotic voyages to unchartered territories. Organisers really push the boat out (ahem) to ensure maximum entertainment for visitors.
For more info: See Gloucester Tall Ships Festival or call (01452) 396572.
Festival: Sportbeat Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: Gloucestershire’s newest addition to the festival calendar, Sportbeat offers an action-packed weekend brimming with live music, sports and fun for the whole family. Aside from an enviable line-up of chart-topping bands and local talent, festival-goers can expect to see some high-intensity rugby, netball and wheelchair rugby matches, as well as some of the fittest athletes in the UK tested in the Summer Clash, in events such as weightlifting, gymnastics, endurance and balance.
SoGlos loves: Not only is Sportbeat one of the best value festivals in the county, but it also boasts eco-friendly overtones and a family-friendly atmosphere, with an interactive family zone, Bouncy World, a local food market and the chance to try your hand at an array of sports all expected to go down a treat with festival-goers young and old.
For more info: See Sportbeat Festival in Gloucester or call (01452) 234644.
Festival: Barn on the Farm
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: Aiming to bridge the gap between your typical village hall shenanigans and its mainstream counterpart, Gloucester’s Over Farm Market is the setting for three days of folk music from dozens of live music performers – some up-and-coming and others who are well on the way to stardom – as well as plenty of decent food and local ales and ciders to keep you going well into the early hours. There’s also camping available too.
SoGlos loves: For the lucky festival-goers who manage to nab early bird tickets, a special Friday night event includes the chance to see some amazing acts up close and personal in the intimate setting of a rustic barn, unplugged and acoustic.
For more info: See Barn on the Farm or call 07917 672565.
Festival: Hartpury Festival of Dressage
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: This highly-regarded international event is comprised of five days of exhilarating equestrian sports, showcasing the talents of top names from the world of dressage.
SoGlos loves: Visitors also have the opportunity to watch the Para Dressage Sport – with the British team having built up a fantastic reputation as the best in the business, taking gold at every Paralympics, World and European Championship since the sport began.
For more info: See Hartpury Festival of Dressage or call (01452) 702355.
Festival: Gloucester Carnival Procession
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A riot of colour and fun in the form of flamboyant floats and multicoloured merrymakers travelling through the centre of Gloucester. The day-long event also incorporates a mix of comedy performances, live music and street theatre, allowing visitors the opportunity to see the city at its cultural best, with a plethora of food and drink stalls, fairground stalls and more also adding to the atmosphere.
SoGlos loves: Still going after over 70 years, the annual carnival has become a real tradition for Gloucester, and has been integral in adding to the city’s cultural identity.
For more info: See Gloucester Carnival Procession or call (01452) 396572.
Festival: Café Rene Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: Local, national and international acts assembling at popular Gloucester pub Café Rene for the annual Rhythm and Blues Festival, in an effort to bring the melodies of the Mississippi Delta and beyond, right to your doorstep. The 2013 line-up features the likes of the mighty blues guitarist John Fairhurst, award-winning songstress Connie Lush, the one-man band that is Funke and the Two Tone Baby, and many more.
SoGlos loves: With both indoor and outdoor performances lined up, as well as plenty of real ales, ciders and sizzling barbecue eats, this event is a great way to spend a summer’s day – and if the likes of acoustic band BabaJack and ‘the big daddy of British blues’ Perry Foster tend to float your boat, this event is for you.
For more info: See Café Rene Gloucester Rhythm and Blues Festival or call (01452) 309340.
Festival: Three Choirs Festival
When: Triennially in July/August
Expect to find: The Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester choirs unite for this annual choral and orchestral event, which is held at Gloucester Cathedral and surrounding Gloucestershire venues every three years. Around 70 individual events make up the spectacular, including chamber music, recitals, theatre performances, lectures, masterclasses and exhibitions, with an appearance from the Philharmonia Orchestra proving a particularly popular pull year on year.
SoGlos loves: This event is thought to be one of the oldest classical choral music festivals in the world, dating back to at least 1715.
For more info: See Three Choirs Festival or call (01452) 381638.
Festival: Herefordshire & Gloucestershire Canal Festival
When: Annually in late August/September
Expect to find: An array of restored boats, military vessels, tugs and yachts proudly on display along Over Basin during the two-day festival, plus guided canal trips, craft stalls and an impressive flotilla of heritage boats sailing from Over Basin to Vineyard Hill. A particular highlight of the boating extravaganza is the beautiful horse Gypsy Queen pulling a boat by rope from the towpath.
SoGlos loves: The Beer, Cider and Perry festival that takes place on the Saturday, complete with live music from local bands, rope demonstrations, Morris dancing and more – and offering something for non-boat lovers to enjoy.
For more info: See Herefordshire & Gloucestershire Canal Festival or call (01452) 332900.
Festival: Stroud International Textile Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: With a reputation for innovation, Stroud International Textile Festival showcases the work of textile artists from around the world, and also provides a great springboard for talented new designers. Visitors can expect to find various tapestry exhibitions, as well as stunning embellished and printed textiles, in a festival that celebrates all contemporary applied arts, whilst linking to traditional textile culture. Talks and lectures are also held about this age-old art.
SoGlos loves: The opportunity to purchase distinctive and fresh fashion pieces during the event, designed by local students and artists.
For more info: See Stroud International Textile Festival or call (01453) 751056.
Festival: SVA Site Festival
When: Annually in May
Expect to find: Stroud Valleys Artspace holds its annual festival of contemporary arts across Stroud every summer, with a view to providing an exciting programme of visual arts, performance, music, screenings, open studios, artist talks and workshops for all that attend. The festival provides a fantastic vehicle for new works, projects and exhibitions, and visitors can expect to take in the work of hundreds of artists across scores of local sites over the month-long celebration.
SoGlos loves: As part of the festival, the hugely popular Open Studios weekends allow art enthusiasts to peek into the working habitats of up to 100 local artists and craft workers.
For more info: See Stroud Site Festival or call (01453) 751440.
Festival: Art Couture Painswick
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: Held annually in the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’, the day-long festival attracts artists, designers and fashionistas alike, who compete in its wearable art competition to win cash prizes and work experience, in addition to celebrity judges, arts and crafts exhibitors, street performers, musicians and more – not to mention the opportunity to explore this beautiful village in the sunshine.
SoGlos loves: The festival was inspired by a visit to the Wearable Art Festival in New Zealand, and since its inception in 2010 has seen visitor numbers more than quadruple – proving just how popular it has become amongst the arty community.
For more info: See Art Couture Painswick Festival call (01452) 810813.
Festival: Nibley Music Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A diverse selection of live acts, from rock to bhangra, and funk to folk performing at one of the friendliest music festival around – with stalls galore for afternoon browsing and lots of fun family activities, including inflatables for the kids. Drinkers can enjoy a plethora of local ales, while there’s more than enough opportunity for foodies to munch on world food from as far apart as Thailand and Mexico.
SoGlos loves: Crazy crafts, circus skills and can-can dancing for those with a creative flair and a taste for performance.
For more info: See Nibley Music Festival.
Festival: Frocester Beer Festival
When: Annually in August
Expect to find: A tremendously popular event which sells out every year within hours, the two-day festival is held in the Frocester Cricket Club ground and takes place every August bank holiday weekend. Boasting more than 100 cask-conditioned real ales, wines, ciders, hot food and a lively programme of music, the event is a highlight of the festival calendar for locals. Parking and camping are also available free of charge for those planning to stay for the duration.
SoGlos loves: Despite being located in a small hamlet near Stroud, the festival has proved a real success over the years and now attracts thousands of visitors from as far afield as Europe.
For more info: See Frocester Beer Festival or call (01453) 548035.
Festival: Stroud Fringe Festival
When: Annually in August/September
Expect to find: Stroud Fringe Festival has earned itself hordes of fans due to an eclectic mix of performers from multiple musical genres such as rock, indie, metal, hip hop, folk and country. A focus for the area’s cultural and artistic talent, street entertainers swarm around festival markets and buskers do their very best outside bars. There are plenty of visual arts to keep you entertained too, and a play area for those soon-to-be cultured kiddiewinks at this family-friendly event.
SoGlos loves: The festival’s environmental conscience – organisers try to ensure the lowest possible carbon footprint and, located amid an efficient public transport system, hope to encourage visitors to leave their cars at home.
For more info: See Stroud Fringe Festival.
Festival: Stroud Food and Drink Festival
When: Annually in September
Expect to find: A super show of delectable local cuisine to tickle the taste buds of Gloucestershire’s most discerning residents, and even those with a critical palate commonly agree that the fare is pretty top notch. Stroud’s independent cafes, restaurants, markets and pubs come out on form for this foodie festival, to offer the region’s best traditional tuck as well as tasty treats inspired by places far, far away.
SoGlos loves: The organic cooking classes to be had by budding chefs, the mouth-watering selection of puddings on offer, the opportunity to spend a Stroud pound or two, and who can forget that giant paella…
For more info: See Stroud Food and Drink Festival.
Festival: Stroud Walking Festival
When: Annually in September
Expect to find: Those that enjoy a good old ramble seldom turn down a chance to explore the Gloucestershire countryside on foot during Stroud’s superb annual walking event. This festival is a must for expert hikers, but novices are equally welcomed and encouraged to join the band of seasoned strollers and fresh air junkies ready to make like the von Trapp family and head for the hills. There are short walks for young families, or lengthy treks for hardcore walking enthusiasts.
SoGlos loves: Despite its status as a fairly new festival, this Stroud event has quickly become one of the biggest in Britain, giving walkers from all over the chance to traverse some of the county’s prettiest parts.
For more info: See Stroud Walking Festival.
Festival: Tewkesbury Medieval Festival
When: Annually in July
Expect to find: A spectacular event that sends history enthusiasts wild each summer and sees nail-biting battles recreated with skill and dexterity; jesters wowing audiences with magical tricks; and a beer tent ensuring festival folk receive their fill of mead. Visitors can expect the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of medieval life, so prepare for trials and beheadings as well as sweet maidens and breathtaking battles. Youngsters have the opportunity to learn about medieval life, surrounded by townspeople and soldiers going about their daily business – cooking over open fires and snoozing in their tents, just as they would have done before commencing battle.
SoGlos loves: The sight of 2000 brave warriors, archers and cannon-bearers re-enacting the 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury as part of a series of magnificent combat displays.
For more info: See Tewkesbury Medieval Festival.
Festival: Lakefest
When: Annually in August
Expect to find: In 2013 Croft Farm Waterpark will be taken over with a feast of live music, camping, glamping, family fun, local beers and ciders – with none other than established acts Ocean Colour Scene, Levellers, The Beat, Chas & Dave and plenty of local talent gracing the stage.
SoGlos loves: While there’s plenty of space to pitch a tent over the weekend and enjoy the festival to its fullest, music fans can enjoy a little more luxury and go all out with a range of glamping, tipi, chalet and pod options that are also available.
For more info: See Lakefest music festival or call 07585 180723.
If you know of an annual Gloucestershire festival which deserves a place in SoGlos’s guide, request an event listing for possible inclusion.
By Shelly Elcock
© SoGlos
Monday 08 April 2013
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