Fantasy and folklore the theme of free family day.
A popular family fun day is returning this summer to Milton Keynes following a successful launch last year.
The Midsummer Festival returns on 22nd June, with a free, fun-packed day of music, food, interactive art and magical experiences for the whole family.
Following a successful debut that welcomed more than 7,000 visitors last year, the Festival is back with even more to discover — this time drawing on themes of fantasy, folklore and fairytales.
Giant mischievous puppets will roam the site, enthralling stories will be told, and there’s a host of things to make and do in Festival Pavilions.
Memorable activities will run throughout the day and evening including:
- The Orbitza: A twilight spectacular where giant totem puppets and a labyrinth of light create a sanctuary for reflection, play and wonder
- 100 Miles of String: Leap Then Look’s epic interactive art project invites everyone to weave sunbeams across the boulevard, building a giant web of colour and light
- Hip-Hop Ceilidh Jam: Folk dance remixed mash-up traditional dance with street styles — fast-paced, joyful and not to be missed
- Dancing ‘Hearthfolk’: Puppets bringing mischief, fun and good-luck charms, while the Midsummer Machine celebrates the solar system in all its glory
- The Faerie Ball and Barn Owl Journey: Storytelling and mystical encounters inside the enchanting performance yurt
- The Wandering Oracles: Roaming mystical fortune-telling machines invite you into a playful world of riddles and folklore
- The Pavilion of the Hopeful Sun: Swap a memory for a seed and celebrate nature at the whimsical Ceremony of the Seed
- Midsummer Music Tent: Local folk legends and mellow sunset sounds curated by Dry Wood and SLQY
- Food and Drink: An expanded feast curated by Sophie Etc., offering delicious options for everyone
Midsummer Boulevard East will be closed to traffic during the event, with diversions and alternative bus stops clearly signposted. Details will be published closer to the event.
“We’re delighted to bring the free Midsummer Festival back after the huge success of its first year,” said Cllr Shanika Mahendran, Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking.
“This exciting programme will bring families and communities together to celebrate in a fun and magical atmosphere. I strongly encourage everyone to come along and be part of it.”
Find the full festival programme at: www.midsummer-festival.co.uk.
