Bedford Tourism Office

Bedford's calendar of events celebrates its unique cultural heritage with traditdional and innovative festivals for local people and visitors alike to participate in and enjoy. With a wealth of green open spaces Bedford is able to host an enviable range of outdoor events and we invite you to join the celebrations

Bedford’s International Kite Festival takes place at the end of May when 30,000 spectators are expected to converge on Russell Park to see kite flyers from all around the world demonstrate the amazing art of display kiting.

For two days in July every other year, Bedford and the River Great Ouse come alive as thousands of people enjoy one of the biggest free family events in the country. The festival springs from the people of Bedford, their cultures, skills, aspirations and imaginations, and features a host or artists and performers. River craft, carnival procession, music, arts, heritage, sports, fireworks, continental market, trade stands and arena events, a combination of carnival, funfair and fete, making this a truly unique event.

Later in July the seaside comes to town with Bedford by the Sea, when Harpur Square is filled with sand and visitors are encouraged to roll up their trouser legs and don their knotted hanky hats to participate in some traditional seaside fun and frolics.

Throughout the rest of July and August the pace is slowed down to enjoy Music in the Meadow, when the Victorian bandstand in Mill Meadows is used to showcase musical talent from around the area, everything from traditional brass to Dixieland Jazz, whilst out of town the International Glenn Miller Festival is fast becoming the Mecca for all swing music fans.

During September and October look out for Bedford’s Heritage Festival.

In November, the Festival of Fire & Light is an amazing pyrotechnics and laser show that illuminates the River Great Ouse, whilst switching on the town’s Christmas lights.

Again a change of pace when the town celebrates its very own Victorian Christmas at the beginning of December. Costumed street vendors and entertainer, ice skating, crafts, period rides and of course Father Christmas create the atmosphere that helps get you into the spirit of Christmas.