All set for big Fest Off
Ten days of entertainment, arts and education in series of events across the town
LEAVES are falling and an autumn chill is here, which can only mean one thing – the return of the Thatcham Festival.
The October festival, which is back for its 22nd year, promises to be the most diverse and extensive yet.
There are more than 45 separate events taking place over the 10-day period from October 14 to October 23.
The town will be filled with arts and entertainment, with opportunities for residents to learn and see more of Thatcham’s history, community and talent.
It will also mean the return of the official opening event The Big Thatcham Fest Off, on October 15, which closes off the Broadway for artists, small businesses and musicians to put their name out there and get to know the community.
Local young band Beyond the Sons, whose song covers have recently gone viral online, will be performing covers from bands such as My Chemical Romance.
Before that, the festival will be taking advantage of the spooky season that is upon us with a ghost
walk, starting at 8pm on Friday, October 14, at St Mary’s Church, hosted by amateur theatrical society KATS.
For those who prefer something a little less intense, the next day (October 15) will see a walking history of Thatcham town centre, hosted by local historian Nick Young.
Saturday will also see an infants 5-a-side football festival on the Moors playing field, with an art exhibition following shortly afterwards at the Old Bluecoat School.
The festival also touches on current events looking at “refugees as rebuilders”. A Zoom event will be held whereby those displaced can share and listen to experiences.
Mayor of Thatcham Jeff Brooks said: “We are particularly looking forward to The Big Thatcham Fest-Off and seeing Beyond the Sons take to the stage as they feature Thatcham schoolboys.
“With concern for the environment such an important issue, we are delighted that we have talks that focus on re-wilding and how we can make a difference.
“Holly Webb’s talk on her new novel shows the importance of nature to wildlife.
“The return of Apple Day after a few years’ absence is a wonderful family day out.
“I look forward to attending as many events as possible and welcoming regular and new festival goers to this year’s festival.’’
There will be a painting workshop from local artist Simon Jardine, who was recently commissioned to brighten the bollards in the Broadway with his illustrations.
A full programme of events can be found on the council’s website. Physical copies can be picked up at the Thatcham Town Council offices on Brownsfield Road.