Music, performance and literature play a central role in many of Worcestershire’s cultural events. The county boasts many festivals often showcasing some of the best, new and emerging artists in the UK and here are some of the best ones to visit.
Upton Blues Festival
Upton Blues Festival is the UK’s biggest free blues festival
The small riverside town of Upton hosts an annual blues festival in July which has grown from a small event in a couple of pubs in 2002 into an internationally-renowned event with many thousands of music fans, two main stages, an acoustic stage and 13 pub venues creating more than 160 free performances.
Worcester Competitive Arts Festival
Known as the friendly festival and held in March every year, Worcester Competitive Arts Festival celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2021 and will be embracing innovation by going online with a virtual festival supporting music and drama.
Worcester Music Festival
Kick the Clown rocking out at Cathedral Square for Worcester Music Festival
Founded in 2008, Worcester Music Festival is a free, volunteer-led event which runs for three days every September. As well as showcasing local musical talent, the festival provides education and professional development opportunities through a wide range of workshops and masterclasses. Spoken word and comedy events also feature in the programme.
Upton Jazz Festival
Upton Jazz Festival is a four-day celebration of jazz, swing and blues with a dash of jive, boogie woogie and modern held in June. The Best of Young Jazz shows off the exceptional talents of young players across the Midlands. Weekend or day tickets give access to every venue and enthusiasts can also enjoy a vintage-themed parade and jazz church service.
Evesham River Festival
Live music plays a big part in Evesham River Festival
One of the longest running festivals in the UK, Evesham River Festival takes place in July and boasts beautiful boating parades, including the illumination parade, which ends with a spectacular fireworks display. Visitors can enjoy steam boats, lifeboat rides as well as music, food and drink. Fairground rides and bouncy castles will entertain the younger ones.
