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For all latest programme updates head to www.midsummer-festival.co.uk
Midsummer Festival returns for its third year on Sunday 21 June when Midsummer Boulevard East will be transformed into Festival central for a free event inspired by midsummer themes of fantasy, folklore and fairy tales.
Expect a jam-packed programme of performances, installations, workshops and activities, designed to delight children, families and curious minds alike. Fantastic pop-up street food curated by Sophie Eats will be available throughout the day and into the evening.
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This year we welcome acclaimed creative company Handmade Productions, whose magnificent larger-than-life puppets will parade through the city in two spectacular processions - combining dance, music and masterful puppetry to mark the longest day of the year.
Look out too for returning favourites and roaming characters bringing mischief and magic throughout the day, including The Wandering Oracles, Hearthfolk, and the playful Moon Hares.
CANOPY – Lorna Rees Company
Step into an enchanting sound world exploring our connection with trees. Wander between 24 suspended sonic pods filled with music, stories and ideas gathered from over 500 contributors. Collect a trail sheet, explore at your own pace, and share your own thoughts with the CANOPY Caretaker.
The Mud Plant Rave – Institute of Thrifty Ideas
A joyful, immersive performance inviting audiences to reconnect with nature through movement, ritual, music and shared experience.
The Wound and Woven Maypole – Jenny Steele
A vibrant, interactive sculpture at the heart of the festival. Help create this evolving artwork through weaving and tassel making across the day.
Time Team Milton Keynes – Mark Wyman and Suzy Round
Join a playful ‘archaeological dig’ uncovering the imagined hidden history of Milton Keynes beneath your feet.
A Space to Rest – Lesley Asare and Katie Fields
Pause and recharge in a calm, multi-sensory environment, surrounded by plants grown and foraged by local communities.
The Pavilion of the Hopeful Sun becomes a House of Stories, curated by MK Literary Festival. Enjoy family storytelling, readings and open mic sessions, plus appearances from special guests including Steph Lay and Zakia Sewell exploring folklore, history and identity.
The Five Fae on the Longest Day – Alice Boland Rhodes
A charming marionette puppet show for children and families, where five woodland fae must save their Midsummer celebration - whimsical storytelling for all ages.
The Oracle of Milton Keynes – Aminah Alhamdu
Help create a unique, collaborative oracle card deck inspired by the city a playful, creative take on myth-making and fortune-telling.
Clayground Collective invites you to explore a mythological “underworld” of Milton Keynes through clay - a chance for all ages to get creative and make something by hand.
The Workshop Tent returns with:
Enjoy a vibrant street food and drink offer curated by Social Etc., alongside a live music programme from The Craufurd Arms, showcasing the very best in contemporary local folk music.
Whether you're looking for creative activities for children, a relaxed wander through art and installations, or simply a great way to spend Father’s Day outdoors, Midsummer Festival offers something for everyone.
Come along, explore, create and celebrate the longest day of the year with us.