A major arts festival is set to return, promising two weeks of music, theatre, and visual arts.
Romsey Festival will take place from July 4 to 19, 2026, transforming the town and surrounding villages into hubs of creativity featuring performances, exhibitions, workshops, and community projects.
Neil Gwynne, chair of the Romsey Festival, said: “Every three years Romsey comes alive with an exciting array of music, dance, art and theatre.
“At our participants’ meeting earlier this month we were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of participants and the wide range of activities and performance on offer already. Romsey Arts Festival 2026 promises to be full of energy and a celebration of culture and community that we want be enjoyed by all across the region.”
Highlights already confirmed for the 2026 programme include musical and dance performances at the Plaza, including a Whitney Houston Tribute.
Romsey Abbey will host a variety of concerts and exhibitions, featuring soloists, choral groups, the Michelmersh Silver Band, as well as displays of quilting, photography, and calligraphy.
The festival will also offer historic walks and tours, a town street art project, an art exhibition in the Mounbatten Gallery Lee, and a variety of folk concerts, dance events, and poetry readings.
Other activities include Quarter Peels at the Abbey and Lockerly Church, the opening of the signal box, a model railway exhibition, and specialist talks and workshops.
The popular Beggars Fair returns on July 11, bringing its signature mix of music and street entertainment.
Mr Gwynne said: “Whether you are a regular Romsey Festival Attendee or a first time visitor, we promise a warm welcome and unforgettable experiences.”
The full programme will be available on the festival website as events are registered. Anyone wishing to get involved is encouraged to contact info@romseyfestival.org.
A final opportunity for participants to meet with the organising committee will take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Romsey Town Hall.
Article published in Romsey Advertiser