CROWDFUNDING is ongoing to secure the future of next year’s Stockton Heath Festival which was blessed with sunshine at this year’s event.
Volunteer organisers of this years Festival put on a great show of art, culture and heritage attracting 1000s of participants to over 50 events spanning four days.
With some hailing the Festival as ‘the best yet’ and ‘varied with a good mix of activities’, several events were sold out well in advance of the Festival weekend, and the volunteer organisers are delighted to hear many visitors are looking forward to next year’s event.
The 2026 programme carried a transport theme brought to life by model railways and aeroplanes, boats and bicycles, and vintage and current emergency vehicles. Local schools had work displayed in the Art Exhibition – including the mascot competition which inspired the Festival character Heathy.
Entertainment included The Pickwick Papers, dance groups, Soul Federation, popular fun dog show, Dolly Parton tribute, local musicians and artists, sell-ou comedy night, heritage talks and walks, and bands Pink Pumps and Purple Umbrella. There was plenty for children to take part in such as Messy Babes play, pottery, Kiddy Cook, and free art and craft sessions for all ages. The artisan market of over 50 stalls featured many local traders offering a great selection of gifts, crafts and produce.
Congratulations to the Art Exhibition winners. From the judging panel: Le Mons by Christine Conreen, and the public chose Miles in Autumn by Neil Robertson to win the Tudor Pole prize.
The judges winner
Unfortunately, rising costs and reduced funding support has squeezed finances in recent years meaning the future for 2027 and beyond is in doubt unless we act now.
This Festival belongs to Stockton Heath – and so does its future. The volunteer organisers would love you to support the Crowdfunding Campaign and donate what you can toward the £5,000 target here: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/stockton-heath-festival
In the words of Bafta-winning writer and Festival patron, Tim Firth: “Few places the size of Stockton Heath could pack so much into one long weekend: classical concerts, contemporary bands, stunning artwork and more.”
The 2026 Festival was run in association with Cransley School, and the organisers would like to thank business sponsors and individual donators, grant providers, local press and radio, and volunteers for contributing to another successful weekend.
Without the community coming together this vibrant independent Festival simply could not continue.
