The ever-popular Bedford River Festival takes place in July every other year, and will return on 18-19 July 2026
From its humble beginnings in 1978 to the biennial behemoth it has since become, the River Festival is a remarkable and unmissable event that brings the community of Bedford Borough (and beyond) together.
The Festival is staged across a unique site encompassing the Victorian Embankment Promenade, the River Great Ouse, scenic local parkland and the town centre to welcome a wealth of attractions to Bedford.
Estimated to attract more than 250,000 visitors over the two days, the River Festival is now described as the second largest outdoor event of its kind in the UK. The site itself measures 107 acres, the equivalent of 71 football pitches!
Visitors from the region and indeed all across the UK are invited to enjoy a weekend of festival fun, diverse entertainment, and of course, all things nautical.
The 2026 River Festival will include countless river activities and displays, multiple live music and performance stages, arts, crafts and sports, family entertainment and so much more.
The event is a community event and is free for visitors to attend.
Sponsors
Please download our sponsorship opportunities leaflet (PDF) or contact events@bedford.gov.uk.
Traders
Please download our trading opportunities pack (PDF).
Please note that ice cream and bars concessions will be with a separate tender – please contact events@bedford.gov.uk for more information.
