New format for Old Town Festival as it returns after 4 years

The Old Town Festival is set to make a big return to Swindon this year from 1st - 9th June 2024. The festival, which had previously run for over 25 years, was a highlight of the annual calendar until it stopped due to Covid four years ago. Now, thanks to the Old Town Business Association, the festival is back with a new format and fresh new look.

Originally devised as a Victorian Festival created by the Old Town Business Association in 1999, in later years it was taken on by the Commonwheel PTA as the festival quickly grew. However, Covid and a dwindling committee meant it needed new energy to bring it back. After their successful street events, and strong business community, the team at the Old Town Business Association and behind Friends of Old Town card scheme, decided to resurrect the festival for 2024. 

“It’s history is rooted with us originally, so it feels right to bring it back,” said Kris Talikowski, Vice-Chair of the Old Town Business Association. “All of the team have loved the previous events, so we hope the local community support us bringing it back. The revived Old Town Festival will retain the spirit of the event but with a new format, new locations, and an array of engaging activities designed to bring the community together."

The festivities will kick off off with a 'Big Weekend’ of two events on 1st and 2nd of June.  

On 1st June will be a Family Fun Day at new venue Town Gardens (a change from the festival's previous venue at The Lawns). The day will feature two stages showcasing local musicians, performers, and dance groups, along with an assortment of local food and drink vendors, community stalls and fun family activities like circus workshops. 

On 2nd June, Wood Street will be transformed into a Victorian wonderland for an Old Town Street Party. The party will be similar to the Friends of Old Town's September Street Foods Festival but will feature on street entertainment, a host of food and drinks stalls, alongside some great live music. 

Following the 'Big Weekend', the festival will continue with a week-long line-up of Fringe events from June 3rd to June 9th, offering something for everyone in the community to enjoy.

"We're thrilled to announce the return of the Old Town Festival," said Richard Deacon, Chair of the Old Town Business Association. "This event has long been a cherished tradition in our community, and we're committed to making this revival a memorable one."

The festival’s charity partner has been announced as the Prospect Hospice. Jeremy Lune, CEO at Prospect Hospice, said: 

“We are incredibly grateful to the people behind the popular Old Town Festival to be chosen as this year’s charity partner. It’s a real privilege for us to be caring for local people and we’re delighted that we’ll have a presence there to talk to people about the care we’re able to provide and help support them in their fundraising activity for us. All the funds we raise through the event will stay in the local area and be used by us to care for and support our patients and their families.”

Further information and stall bookings for both the Family Fun Day and the Old Town Street Party are now online. 

Find out more at www.thisisoldtown.com