Record crowds and arts inclusion wow at launch of revived Old Town Festival
The revived Old Town Arts Festival launched on Sunday 1 June with a record-breaking 4,650 attendees at the Family Fun Day in Town Gardens, marking the start of a refreshed week-long programme of arts and community activity across Swindon’s Old Town.
The event, running from 12–5pm, drew large crowds to enjoy a vibrant mix of live performances, creative workshops, family activities, food, and community stalls, with a renewed focus on arts inclusion that proved a major hit with festival-goers of all ages.
The full day of entertainment included performances from Mary Barnes, Dance Roots Africa, Jet Set Jackie, Emma Doupe, Rhythmix Goa Choir, Swindon Ukrainian Choir, Ministry of Samba, and DJ Mariia.
Families took part in hands-on painting, nature-inspired arts and crafts, and The Enchanted Garden story walk, co-created by over 100 local children in partnership with author Kate Claxton.
Local arts organisations Artsite and Open Studios ran drop-in workshops and promoted upcoming events, while South Swindon in Bloom delivered nature-themed activities, including free seed giveaways and interactive planting games. A buzzing local makers' market, delivered in partnership with Mama’s Events, added further colour to the day.
Two additional fringe events also took place on Sunday, the Old Railway Path Walk, which attracted 39 participants, and a well-attended Old Town Comedy Night at the Bowl, hosted by South Swindon Parish Council.
“This year’s turnout was incredible,” said Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association. “It shows just how much appetite there is for inclusive, creative, community-led events in Swindon. By bringing the arts into the heart of the festival, we’ve created something that feels vibrant, welcoming, and rooted in local pride.”
The Family Fun Day officially launched a full week of Old Town Arts Festival events, running until 8 June. Highlights include free and low-cost creative workshops for children and families, The Cybershow UK online safety talk at the Kings Arms (5 June), and the Christ Church Eco Fair (7 June)
The festival will close on Sunday 8 June 12pm-5pm with the ever-popular Wood Street Party, offering live music, street food, and a buzzing community atmosphere.
