Thatcham Festival
2025-10-10 - 2025-10-19
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

For the Full Programme CLICK HERE

Thatcham Festival returns this year from the 10th to the 19th October with 10 days of activities celebrating local talent, creativity, and heritage. Many events are free.
With a wide range of events including live music, talks, guided walks, children’s activities, craft workshops, and art exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy, whatever your interests or age.
This year, the festival will shine a light on Thatcham’s history with heritage walks and talks exploring our town’s fascinating past, while families can look forward to storytelling sessions, nature activities, and hands-on crafts for children.
Local groups, artists, and performers will showcase their skills, and there will be plenty of opportunities to try something new, from board games and painting to photography and music.
Many events are free, ensuring everyone has the chance to join in, discover new hobbies, and learn more about our town. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to meet your neighbours, support local talent, and celebrate what makes Thatcham a warm and vibrant place to live.

The Big Thatcham Fest Off
2025-10-11 16:30 - 21:00 (Europe/London)
The Big Thatcham Fest Off will once again take over Thatcham High Street on Saturday 11th October, from 4.30pm – 9pm.
The Main Stage will showcase a fantastic lineup, including Thatcham Musical Theatre Choir, The Casino Birds and headliners Moonstate with their unique blend of 2000’s girl pop, indie rock, and modern-day hits.
The Acoustic Stage, curated by local talent Sion Whiley, will host a variety of local performers throughout the evening.
For those looking for something a little different, the Silent Disco offers a fun and immersive way to enjoy the evening, with multiple channels of music to dance along to under the stars.
Visitors can also enjoy an array of food and drink stalls, as well as gift stalls with handcrafted treasures and local produce.
The Big Thatcham Fest Off is free to attend and promises to be a great night to Kickstart Thatcham Festival 2025.

Leisure and Craft Fair
2025-10-18 10:00 - 15:00 | St Mary’s Church, Church Close, Thatcham, RG19 3PP
Kick off your festive shopping in style at the Craft Fair at St Mary’s Church, where you’ll find a selection of handmade treasures crafted by local artisans. From unique cards and candles to beautiful jewellery, papercrafts, handbags, paintings, and more – there’s something special for everyone.
In the Church grounds, local clubs and community groups will be showcasing their activities, giving you the perfect opportunity to discover what’s happening in your area.

FREE – No Booking Required

Halloween Market
2025-10-31 08:00 - 14:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
A Spooktacular Morning Out at the Friday Market!
This Halloween, our much-loved Friday market is getting a ghostly makeover! Join us on Friday 31st October for a morning packed with autumnal charm, local delights, and a few spooky surprises…
Whether you’re popping in for your usual fruit and veg, or looking to pick up something a little different, our Halloween Market has something for everyone.
👻 What to Expect:

Fresh produce from your favourite regular traders

Seasonal street food & autumnal drinks

Halloween-themed bakes & sweet treats

Crafts, gifts & handmade goods

Pumpkins, flowers & spooky décor

Live music, costumes & fun for all ages

Family-friendly atmosphere – fancy dress encouraged!

🎃 Whether you’re after a perfect pumpkin, or some last-minute costume flair, it’s the ideal place to soak up the season and support local makers.
🕰️ When: Friday 31st October 2025📍 Where: Thatcham Broadway

Remembrance Sunday
2025-11-09 10:30 - 12:00
All are very welcome to watch the parade and service for Remembrance Day on Sunday 9th November 2025.
The parade starts at 10.30am from the Kingsland Centre car park, loops around Thatcham Broadway and up the High Street to the War Memorial. The Mayor, Reverend Mark Bennet and the Royal British Legion will lead the service at the War Memorial. After the main wreath laying, members of the public will be invited to lay their own tributes.
Armistice Day
A smaller service for Armistice Day will be led by the Royal British Legion on Tuesday 11th November from 10.45am at the War Memorial.
All are very welcome to attend the short service which will take place on Thatcham Memorial Gardens. The service takes place at 11.00am and if you wish to attend please ensure that you are at the Garden by 10.55am.
Thatcham’s War Memorial
The War Memorial is set in a small garden at the junction of Brownsfield Road and London Road (A4). The garden and memorial are maintained by the Thatcham Memorial Hall & Playing Fields Foundation. To see details of the War Memorial please visit the West Berkshire War Memorials website.

The Mayor of Thatcham's Fundraising Barn Dance SOLD OUT!!
2025-11-14 19:00 - 23:00 | Frank Hutchings Community Hall, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
*** THIS EVENT HAS NOW SOLD OUT AND THERE WILL BE NO TICKETS AVAILABLE ON THE DOOR ***
The Mayor of Thatcham’s Fundraising Barn Dance
Friday 14th November | Frank Hutchings Hall, Thatcham | 7:00 PM till late
The Mayor of Thatcham would like to invite you to her fundraising barn dance/ceilidh.
Join us for a toe-tapping evening of fun, laughter, and lively dancing at the Mayor of Thatcham’s Fundraising Barn Dance! Held at the Frank Hutchings Community Hall, this event promises a great night out for three fantastic charities that undertake vital work in the local community: Swings & Smiles, Home-Start West Berkshire and Bridge for Young People.
🌾 Music & Talented local Caller (please note, it is recorded music, not a band performing)
🍷 Tickets: £10 – includes a welcome drink
🧺 BYOB – bring your favourite tipple and snacks to make this a budget friendly evening!
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night with friends and family, everyone is welcome. All profits will go towards the Mayor’s chosen local charities.
Grab your friends, bring your own bottle, and let’s dance the night away!

Warming Up for Christmas: Lights Switch On
2025-12-05 17:00 - 20:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Warming Up for Christmas in Thatcham
Thatcham Town Centre is gearing up for a festive weekend packed with activities, including the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On, a special Christmas Market, the Santa Fun Run, and a Civic Carol Concert.
On Friday 5 December at 5pm the festive fun begins with the Christmas Light Switch On. With stalls offering seasonal gifts, food, and refreshments, leading up to the Lights Switch-On at 7.15pm. Both Thatcham High Street and The Broadway will be closed to traffic, allowing even more space for attractions. Visitors can enjoy live stage entertainment, carol singers, dancers, roaming performers—including stilt walkers and a bubble fairy—and a special visit from Father Christmas courtesy of Newbury Lions. And once again, we can guarantee snowfall in Thatcham for the evening!
The main stage will feature performances from Kennet School, Whitelands Primary School, Churches Together Choirs, dance groups including Sonia Brown and Dance Fusion, as well as a theatre preview from KATS. DJ Stop Start will keep the celebrations going after the switch-on. Mayor Petra Pemberton with be switching on the lights joined by Father Christmas.
From 10am on Saturday 6th December, The Broadway hosts a Christmas Market—perfect for discovering unique, locally sourced gifts and supporting local businesses. Entertainment will run throughout the day beside the giant Christmas tree.
Visitors can also vote for the town’s Best Christmas Window Display, supported by the Newbury Weekly News, as local retailers join in the festive fun.
‘Warming Up for Christmas’ is sponsored by Graeme Electrical Services, with this year’s Christmas tree sponsored by Xtrac.
On Sunday 8 December, the Rotary Club of Thatcham and District presents the Santa Fun Run—an uplifting event for all ages.
On Sunday 14 December at 3pm, St Mary’s Church will host the Thatcham Town Council Civic Carol Concert, a traditional and beautiful celebration.

Warming Up for Christmas: Christmas Market
2025-12-06 10:00 - 15:00
The Warming Up for Christmas celebrations continue on Saturday 6th December, with a special Christmas Market from 10am until 3pm on the Broadway.
This festive event will showcase a wide selection of unique, locally sourced gifts, providing an excellent opportunity to support Thatcham’s independent businesses.
Entertainment will take place throughout the day, with a programme of performances held in front of the town’s giant Christmas Tree, creating a welcoming and seasonal atmosphere for all to enjoy.

The Mayor of Thatcham's Civic Carol Service
2025-12-14 15:00 - 17:00 | St Mary’s Church, Church Close, Thatcham, RG19 3PP
🎄 Mayor’s Christmas Carol Service 2025 🎄
In aid of the Mayor’s Charities.
Join us for an evening of festive cheer and community spirit!
Enjoy traditional carol singing, the enchanting sounds of the Barfield Handbell Ringers, and the comforting treats of mulled wine and mince pies.
📅 Date: Sunday 14th December, 2025
🕕 Time: 3pm
📍 Venue: St Mary’s Church, Thatcham

Free entry and no need to book!
Let’s come together to celebrate the season and support the Mayor’s chosen charities: Swings and Smiles, Bridge for Young People and Home-start West Berkshire.
Bring family and friends — all are welcome!
✨ A perfect way to celebrate your Christmas festivities while helping those in need. ✨

Event Stallholder Applications
2026-01-19 - 2026-12-31
Community and Civic Events
Thatcham Town Council run a large number of community and civic events throughout the year for the whole community to enjoy.
Our events include:

Family Fun Day
KidsFest
Fest-Off
Thatcham Festival
Remembrance Sunday
Christmas Light Switch On
Civic Carol Service
Mayor Making

Stallholder Information
If you are interested in becoming a stallholder at one or more of our events, please review the information below:

2026 Events Stallholder Information
2026 Stallholder Rates
Sample Terms and Conditions 2026
Thatcham Town Council Privacy Notice
TTC Plastic Free Charter
Risk Assessment Template

How to Apply
When you are ready to apply for any of our events please click here to complete our Expression of Interest form.
You can apply for one, several, or all of our events via the same form.
Contact Us
If you require any further information, please contact events.officer@thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk

Valentines Market
2026-02-13 08:00 - 14:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Fall in Love with Our Valentine’s Day Friday Market
Get ready to spread the love at our Valentine’s Day Friday Market – the perfect place to pick up last-minute gifts and treat the people (and pets!) you adore.
🥕 Cook the perfect Valentine’s meal
Stock up on fresh, local produce from our fruit & veg and meat stalls – everything you need for a romantic dinner at home.
🎁 Thoughtful gifts for every kind of love From beautiful jewellery and unique gift stands to fresh flowers, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list.
🐶 Don’t forget your four-legged Valentine
Treat the true loves of your life with natural dog treats from Toddington’s.
🍯☕🍩 Plus, something sweet
Browse local honey, enjoy delicious doughnuts, and warm up with coffee and tea while you shop.
💚 You can also refill your home with eco-friendly refillable cleaning products – love your planet too!
❤️Love smart, love safe the royal Berkshire sexual health screening van, will be attending to offer free advice and contraception
💡 Extra love, Costco-style
Show them you love them in bulk with a Costco membership available on the day!
We can’t wait to see you there!

Chinese New Year Market
2026-03-01 10:00 - 16:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Thatcham Town Council is delighted to announce the return of the Chinese New Year Market to Thatcham Broadway on Sunday 1st March, from 10.00am to 4.00pm, celebrating the Year of the Horse with a day of food, culture, and community.
Food lovers can look forward to an exciting selection of Asian cuisine, including Japanese dumplings and bento boxes, authentic rice balls with flavourful fillings, aromatic Thai dishes, Indonesian specialities, and a tempting range of beautifully crafted sweet treats and desserts.
Alongside the food, the market will feature a variety of unique stalls showcasing elegant jewellery, handmade accessories, crafts, and home and beauty products. Many of the traders are Asian-owned businesses, or draw inspiration from the rich traditions and artistry of East and Southeast Asia.
A traditional Lion Dance will take place on Thatcham Broadway outside the Kingsland Centre at 11am and 12.30pm. The event will also include performances from local groups organised by Community United throughout the day, with a full programme to be announced.
Mayor of Thatcham, Councillor Petra Pemberton, said:
“I am thrilled to see the Chinese New Year Market returning to Thatcham. Events like this bring people together and showcase the richness of our community. Thatcham is the perfect place to celebrate the diversity of our residents, and I hope everyone will come along to enjoy the food, performances, and welcoming atmosphere.”
Residents and visitors are invited to bring family and friends to enjoy live entertainment, explore creative stalls, and savour exceptional food. The Chinese New Year Market offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity while enjoying the strong community spirit that makes Thatcham such a special place.
For more information about the Lion Dance performance, please visit www.liondanceuk.com.

Thatcham in Old Photographs
2026-03-02 19:30 | Thatcham Town Council Offices, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
📸 A Photographic Journey Through Thatcham 📸
Join us for a fascinating illustrated tour of Thatcham, seen through the camera lens. Local historian Dr Nick Young will guide us using a captivating mix of historic and modern photographs, revealing how the town has changed over time.
💙 All proceeds will go to the Mayor’s Chosen Charities:

Swings & Smiles

Home-Start West Berkshire

Bridge for Young People

📅 Monday 2nd March🕢 7:30pm (doors open at 7:15pm)
📍 Thatcham Town Council OfficesBrownsfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3HF
🎟️ Please book in advancePayment is taken on the door.
👉 To book, please complete the booking form here: Booking Form📞 Or call 01635 863592📧 Or email enquiries@thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk
We look forward to seeing you there!

The Mayor of Thatcham's Fundraising Bingo Night
2026-03-06 18:30 - 21:30 | Frank Hutchings Community Hall, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
Join us for the Mayor of Thatcham’s Fundraising Bingo Night on Friday 6th March for an evening of fun, prizes, and community spirit — all in support of three fantastic local charities.
Doors open at 6:30pm, with eyes down at 7:00pm.

Enjoy a lively bingo session alongside a prize-winning raffle, with plenty of chances to win while supporting three great causes.
£10 per person, for a booklet of 6 strips for the 6 games All profits go directly to the Mayor’s chosen charities:

Swings & Smiles

Home-Start West Berkshire

Bridge for Young People

Bring your friends, grab a dabber, and help make a real difference locally. It is BYOB as there is no bar at the Frank Hutchings Hall so feel free to bring your own drinks and snacks!

For tickets and to reserve a table (minimum 4 people), please email enquiries@thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01635 863592.

We’d love to see you there!

Good Friday Market
2026-04-03 08:00 - 14:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Hop into Easter at Thatcham Market this Good Friday!

Join us on Good Friday for a special Easter Market and celebrate the long weekend with the community!

Browse all your favourite Friday Market stalls – perfect for picking up delicious local produce, Easter treats, and everything you need for your Easter Sunday lunch.

Easter Treasure Hunt Fun! Little ones can take part in our Easter Treasure Hunt – follow the trail, collect stamps, and claim a sweet treat at the end.

The Broadway Green will be filled with fairground rides and inflatables for young ones to enjoy!

The Mayor of Thatcham's Silent Disco
2026-04-10 18:00 - 21:30 | Frank Hutchings Community Hall, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
Thatcham Town Council are excited to announce an upcoming fundraising event for the Mayor’s charities. On Friday 10th April, the Frank Hutchings Hall in Thatcham will be transformed into a Silent Disco, complete with a tuck shop to re-live your childhood school disco memories.

The evening will start at 18.00 for a family-friendly silent disco session, with tunes for both the children and the grown-ups. There will then be a short interlude at 19.30, before the night turns into an adult-only zone at 20.00 where you can re-live the music of your youth.

Entry is just £5 per person, per session and you are welcome to bring your own bottle.
To pre-book a place, please contact us on enquiries@thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk, or by tickets on the door.
Profits from the night will go to the Mayor’s chosen charities: Home-Start West Berkshire, Swings & Smiles and Bridge for Young People.

St George's Day Market
2026-04-23 08:00 - 14:00 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Step into a little storybook magic at Thatcham’s St George’s Day Market! Join us on Friday 24 April for a day of family fun, delicious food, and amazing crafts in the heart of Thatcham Broadway.
Our regular Friday favourites will be there, including fresh fruit and vegetables, local honey, doughnuts, pet treats, fish and meat – plus special St George’s Day treats to celebrate the occasion.
Indulge in:

British classics: slow-roasted pork with sage and onion stuffing and apple sauce, BBQ pork with coleslaw, loaded fries, bacon rolls, and hot or cold drinks.
International delights: olives, baklava, nuts, and Turkish delight – a playful nod to St George, who was born in what is now Turkey but became England’s patron saint.

Crafts and gifts will also be on offer, including resin goods, sun catchers, and necklaces.
Family fun and entertainment starts at 9.30am with a brave Green Knight and enchanting KYANITE the Dragon! Magical appearances are scheduled at 9.30am, 10.45am, and 12pm, with interactive crafts and storybook fun for children and adults alike.
Other highlights include:

Free spinal and posture checks
Advice and activities from the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, including wildlife gardening tips, volunteering info, membership details, and the Children’s Wildlife Watch Club

Come celebrate English produce, local craft, and a bit of storybook magic at Thatcham’s St George’s Day Market!

Annual Town Meeting
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:00 | Frank Hutchings Community Hall, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
Thatcham residents are warmly invited to join the Annual Town Meeting on Thursday 23rd April, 6.30pm at Frank Hutchings Community Hall.
This meeting is a great opportunity for the community to come together. Learn about the work being done for you, talk directly with local representatives, and voice your opinions on matters important to Thatcham.
The Annual Town Meeting is a chance for open discussion, celebrating local successes, and shaping the town’s future—not a formal Council meeting.
Your Voice Shapes Future Decisions
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. It’s your chance to ask questions, share concerns, and see how Thatcham is managed. Don’t miss this opportunity to get involved and make your voice heard!
This year’s event will feature an engaging programme, including:

Thatcham Town Councillors will provide an update on the past year’s activities and projects.
Guest Presentation from Thames Valley Police – Officers will share insights into local policing efforts, community safety initiatives, and crime prevention advice.
Presentations from local organisations who continue to benefit Thatcham
Presentation of the Thatcham Community Awards

Dementia Action Week party
2026-05-21 12:00 - 14:00 | Jubilee Sensory Garden, Brownsfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3HF, United Kingdom
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming garden party during Dementia Action Week
Thursday 21st May
Jubilee Garden, Brownfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3HF
Come along to enjoy:
Delicious cakes, feel free to bring some to share
Tea and coffee provided
A lovely outdoor setting
Friendly faces and a chance to connect
Everyone is welcome – whether you’re living with dementia, supporting someone who is, or simply want to show your support. Let’s come together as a community.

Children's Heritage Day
2026-05-28 10:00 - 14:00 | Thatcham Town Council Offices, Bradley-Moore Square, Thatcham, RG18 4QH
Can you solve the mystery of the missing time pebble?

Bring the whole family along for a free day packed with adventure, creativity, and discovery. Young explorers can follow our exciting heritage scavenger hunt, get hands-on with crafts, and build their own Lego heritage creations in the library.

There’ll be fun traditional garden games throughout the day, plus engaging children’s history talks designed to spark curiosity and bring the past to life in a way kids will love.

Start at the Broadway Green to collect your scavenger hunt. Once completed, hand it in at the Town Council Offices, Brownsfield Road and join us for some heritage fun.

Freedom of the Town Parade
2026-06-04 13:00 - 14:30 | The Broadway, Thatcham, RG19 3HP
Freedom of the Town is one of the oldest and most meaningful traditions a community can offer, and in Thatcham it carries a deep sense of pride. This honour is being given to 67 Military Intelligence Company based at Denison Barracks in Hermitage. Recognising their connection with the area and the important role they play in local life, including their attendance at Remembrance Sundays as the permanent military contingent.

Troops will March onto the Broadway at 1pm where a formal ceremony and inspections will take place. Afterwards67 Military Intelligence Company will exercise their Freedom of Thatcham by marching through the Broadway led by a Military band, where residents can line the streets, cheer, and celebrate this shared moment of respect.

It promises to be a meaningful occasion for everyone involved, filled with pride, tradition and community spirit.

Thatcham Family Fun Day
2026-06-28 11:00 - 16:00 | Henwick Worthy Sports Ground, Thatcham, RG18 3BU, United Kingdom
We can’t wait to bring you Family Fun Day 2026 — and it’s shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration packed with entertainment, activities, and community spirit. Once again, we’re expecting thousands of visitors for a fantastic day filled with returning favourites and exciting experiences.
Its free to enter, and visitors will be spoilt for choice with a vibrant mix of attractions, including the ever-popular funfair, maze, circus skills, crafts, zorbing, and inflatables. Much-loved entertainers including Juggling Jake and the traditional Punch and Judy show also return to delight audiences of all ages.
We’re thrilled to welcome the Super Pirates team — masters of controlled chaos — who describe themselves as “endlessly energetic, creative, chaotic, and fun.”
Back by popular demand, the Dog Show returns with categories for pups of every age and personality — including the crowd-favourite “Dog That Looks Most Like Its Owner.” Kindly sponsored by Donnington Grove Small Animal Vets (weather permitting).
For young runners with energy to burn, the Fun Run — sponsored by Everyone Active — features age-based races alongside the ever-popular Continuous Run, one of the highlights of the day.
Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the classic car show, delivered by the Rotary Club, showcasing an impressive display of over 150 vintage and classic vehicles.
A true highlight of the day is our fantastic range of stallholders. Browse a vibrant selection of local crafts, discover community groups, and connect with local charities — a perfect way to support and celebrate the people who make our community so special. Food lovers can indulge in a wide range of delicious options, from local favourites to global street food. Adults can relax with a craft beer from Delphic Brewing Company while enjoying live acoustic music in the Acoustic Tent.
Hosted by Kennet Radio, the Dance Zone will spotlight local talent with lively performances from local dance schools. Over on the Main Stage, expect a fantastic line-up of live music and theatre, including Project Band, West Berkshire Rock Choir, and local band Moonstate.
Celebrating diversity and community, Newbury Pride returns to Family Fun Day with vibrant festivities and the much-loved Pride Parade — bringing colour, joy, and unity to the event.
Bring your family, your dog, your dancing shoes, and your reusable water bottle, and join us for a day full of fun, connection, and lasting memories.
Attendees are encouraged to consider environmentally friendly travel options, as onsite parking fills quickly. There are regular bus services connecting Newbury and Thatcham.

KidsFest Thatcham
2026-08-27 10:00 - 15:00
KidsFest Thatcham is back for 2026 with a FREE under-the-sea adventure, bursting with family fun before the school term begins.
Organised by Thatcham Town Council, this much-loved event brings the community together for an ocean-sized day of entertainment and activities across the town centre on Thursday 27th August, 10am to 3pm.
Turnfields Recreation Ground will become a lively lagoon of fun, featuring bouncy castles, a rodeo bull, an ice cream van, and the ever-popular Juggling Jake, hosting circus skills workshops to keep your little mermaids, pirates, and deep-sea explorers entertained all day.
Over on The Broadway, you will find ocean-inspired arts, crafts, and hands-on activities. Don’t miss the “Seatacular” shows by Junkyard Jodie, where you can learn how to care for our oceans and get inspired to create toys from recycled materials—bringing them to life with your imagination!
Older children can dive into a gaming van, ride the waves of laughter in comedy workshops, or get creative in art sessions.
The High Street will be closed to traffic and transformed into a bustling harbour market, filled with charity and gift stalls perfect for young adventurers. You’ll also be able to get up close to a real fire engine—no lifeboat required!
Thatcham Library will be making waves too, with a treasure trove of free activities for curious ocean explorers.
Don’t miss our Under the Sea themed trail! Follow the trail of hidden sea-creature letters swimming through shop windows—collect them all, crack the secret word, and you could reel in a prize! 🐟
KidsFest Thatcham 2026 is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, Picture It Framed and Gardner Leader.

Thatcham Festival
2026-10-09 - 2026-10-18
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT APPLICATION
The much-loved Thatcham Festival is set to return from Friday 9th to Sunday 18th October 2026, and applications are now open for those who would like to be part of this year’s programme.
Thatcham Town Council is inviting Thatcham-based individuals, community groups, charities, and arts and leisure organisations to submit event proposals. Organisers can apply to host either a single event or a series of activities, helping to create a vibrant programme that celebrates the culture, creativity, and community spirit of Thatcham.
The festival provides a great platform for local businesses, organisations, and residents to showcase their talents and bring people together. Whether it’s live music, a cultural exhibition, a sporting activity, a workshop, or something completely unique, we would love to hear your ideas and help bring them to life as part of this year’s festival.
Key Festival Dates:• Festival Dates: Friday 9th – Sunday 18th October 2026• Application Deadline: Friday 8th May 2026
Event organisers can submit their proposals via the Thatcham Town Council website or by contacting the Events Team for more information.
We’re looking forward to seeing a wide range of events and welcoming new ideas that will add energy and creativity to this year’s festival programme.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of a longstanding local tradition, share your passion with the community, and help make Thatcham Festival 2026 another unforgettable celebration.
From comedy, theatre, music and dance to history talks, author events, outdoor nature activities, festivals, and photo and art exhibitions, Thatcham Festival has something for everyone.
With over 40 individual events taking place across 10 packed days, the festival showcases a vibrant programme of arts and leisure activities delivered by a diverse range of people and organisations connected to Thatcham.

The Big Thatcham Fest-Off
2026-10-10 16:30 - 21:00 | Thatcham High Street, Thatcham, RG19 3JG, United Kingdom
Kicking off Thatcham Festival, the Big Thatcham Fest-Off returns to a traffic-free High Street. Expect street food, stalls, and two live music stages—including the popular acoustic stage.
More information to follow

Remembrance Sunday
2026-11-08 10:30 - 12:00 | Thatcham War Memorial, Bath Road, Thatcham, RG18 3HB, United Kingdom
All are very welcome to watch the parade and service for Remembrance Day on Sunday 8th November 2026.
The parade starts at 10.30am from the Kingsland Centre car park, loops around Thatcham Broadway and up the High Street to the War Memorial. The Mayor, Reverend Mark Bennet and the Royal British Legion will lead the service at the War Memorial. After the main wreath laying, members of the public will be invited to lay their own tributes.
Armistice Day
A smaller service for Armistice Day will be led by the Royal British Legion on Wednesday 11th November from 10.45am at the War Memorial.
All are very welcome to attend the short service which will take place on Thatcham Memorial Gardens. The service takes place at 11.00am and if you wish to attend please ensure that you are at the Garden by 10.55am.
Thatcham’s War Memorial
The War Memorial is set in a small garden at the junction of Brownsfield Road and London Road (A4). The garden and memorial are maintained by the Thatcham Memorial Hall & Playing Fields Foundation. To see details of the War Memorial please visit the West Berkshire War Memorials website.

Christmas Lights Switch On
2026-11-28 12:00 - 19:00
Brand new for 2026, the Christmas Lights Switch On and Christmas Market will come together for one festive day on Saturday 28th November.
The High Street and The Broadway will be transformed with a vibrant mix of commercial, charity, and community stalls, alongside Christmas shopping, delicious food and drink, live entertainment, Santa, the steam train, and the much-loved Lights Switch On — a true festive favourite in Thatcham.
More information to follow.
