Frome Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this summer with a packed 10-day programme featuring live music, comedy, theatre, workshops, art trails and family-friendly events across the town and surrounding villages.
Running from Friday 3 July to Sunday 12 July, with a gala launch event on Thursday 2 July, the much-loved community arts festival will bring together 300 events in 58 venues, offering something for all ages and interests.
Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the festival, from hands-on workshops and outdoor activities to live performances and free community events. Highlights for younger audiences include a Family Pond Dip, a colourful children’s Wildlife Parade through Frome town centre and a creative workshop hosted by poet and performer John Hegley for ‘anyone who has been seven years old’.
The popular Food Feast returns on Saturday 4 July from 5pm, combining international street food, live entertainment and family-friendly festival atmosphere in one of the festival’s best-loved free events.
Visitors can also explore the town’s Hidden Gardens between 10 and 12 July, with extended evening opening hours added for the first time this year, allowing families and festival-goers to enjoy the spaces in cooler evening temperatures before heading to performances and events.
Music remains at the heart of the festival, with a diverse line-up ranging from folk and classical to jazz, world music, punk and techno. Frome-based folk singer Cara Dillon will perform a special hometown concert alongside Sam Lakeman, reflecting on both her acclaimed career and life in Frome.
Other headline performers include Sir Tony Robinson, comedy favourite Nigel Planer, Taskmaster star Phil Ellis and broadcaster and artist Timmy Mallett.
Festivalgoers can also enjoy theatre productions, literary talks, poetry events and workshops covering everything from jewellery making and photography to flamenco, Morris dancing and medieval tile making.
Art exhibitions continue to play a major role in the festival, with the Frome Open Art Trail once again showcasing artists and makers throughout the town. Meanwhile, the Pedestal Gallery will display ceramics created by comedian Johnny Vegas alongside works by leading contemporary artists.
Festival Director Adam Laughton said, “As Frome Festival celebrates its 25th birthday this year, we’re delighted to see Frome’s remarkable arts scene reflected in events of all shapes and sizes. With 300 events, including 160 that are free and up to £5 per ticket, in 58 venues across the 10-day programme, there really is something for everyone.”
Brochures are available from venues across Frome and the surrounding area, including the Cheese & Grain and local libraries.
Tickets are on sale now via Frome Festival.
