Arundel Festival of the Arts
20th - 30th August 2021
Where can you find a circus, classical music, original theatre, an art trail and a duck race (plastic, of course!)?
Welcome to the annual Arundel Festival of the Arts where there really is something for everyone!
Arundel’s very own Duke, the Duke of Norfolk, once said: “The Arundel Festival showcases everything that is excellent about our town.”
His Grace is, without a doubt, absolutely right.
Every year at the end of August, Arundel fills with events and entertainment for all ages. The 2021 Arundel Festival of the Arts will be as fun as ever – with changes to keep everyone COVID-safe.
When was the Arundel Festival of the Arts first staged?
More than 40 years ago, in 1978, a festival was staged in Arundel. Shakespeare’s words filled the air of Arundel Castle Gardens and an annual tradition began.
Since that first festival was held in 1978, Arundel residents and visitors have enjoyed seeing ‘Ratty’ (the water vole!) munch his apple while floating down the stream along Mill Road on a raft specially constructed as his floating stage.
For many years, brave (daft?) folk braved the River Arun, in an attempt to row homemade bathtub boats from start to finish. Many sank but it was always smiles all round. The Dragon Boats were a striking sight as their crews raced to the beat of encouraging drums.
On dry land, stilt walkers strolled the streets, which hummed with street performers, music and the happy sounds of al fresco eating.
What can I see at the 2021 Arundel Festival of the Arts?
The Arundel Festival of the Arts is heaven for music lovers, with every style and genre available to enjoy. There are classical performances from Arundel’s very own Hanover Band, jazz, folk, rock, choirs, steel bands and more. The Festivals’ main music programme will be a 3 day music festival taking place on the fields behind Mill Road Car Park. Join in Arundel’s Gallery Trail – when the whole town becomes a gallery, with artists, sculptors and makers displaying their work in houses, shops, restaurants, and public buildings around town.
Once the flag raising ceremony in the High Street has launched the festival on Friday 20th August from 3.45pm, this year’s fun will begin!
There are so many events for you to choose from. Happy’s Circus, The Big Top Cabaret Show, the Fun Fair on the Meadows. Or will you soak up some culture on the Theatre Trail, or aim for a personal best in the Arundel Scout 10k Run?
Are the Arundel Festival of the Arts events daytime or evening?
There is a full calendar of events this year, both during the day and in the evenings.
Why not visit the circus or sit back and enjoy the cabaret show?
Some very special cars visit Arundel during the festival. Performance and classic sports cars line the top of the High Street on certain days. And the best news is – you can go for a dream ride in them!
The Arundel Festival of the Arts Duck Race
Will your duck be the fastest ‘swimmer’ and cross the finish line first? Sign up to buy a duck and then join the fun as thousands of little yellow ducks are launched from the bridge into the River Arun, where they bob their way to the finish line on the tide. There’s always a winning duck, could it be yours?
Shopping at the Arundel Festival of the Arts
As well as ‘pop up’ events, town trails, storytelling, well-being events, and charity stalls, you can enjoy late night shopping during the Arundel Festival. It’s also a wonderful time to visit the popular Arundel Farmers’ Market, where you will find an incredible selection of local food, drink and other goodies. The Arundel Festival Market is another great shopping experience packed with delights you won’t find on the High Street.
Eating, drinking and special events during the Arundel Festival of the Arts
If all this fun makes you hungry and thirsty – you will find food and drink to suit every taste during the Arundel Festival. As well as the many food and drink events, cafés and restaurants take their tables to the streets in the centre of town.
In and around Arundel, the pubs, restaurants, cafés, bars, and hotels often run their own events during the Arundel Festival, so keep a look out to see what they have planned.
Lots of Arundel attractions are also holding their own events during the 10-day festival period.
Why not check out Arundel Castle, Arundel Lido, Arundel Wetlands, Arundel Castle Cricket Club, Arundel Museum, Arundel Cathedral, Arundel Baptist Church, St Nicholas Church, Victoria Institute, and Swanbourne Lake?
How can I find out what’s on at the Arundel Festival of the Arts
Leading up to the Festival, a WOW! (What’s On Where) will feature on www.arundelfestival.co.uk. And Visit Arundel www.visitarundel.co.uk
Tickets for Festival ticketed events will gradually be available to buy online and at selected outlets around Arundel. You can find further ticket information on www.arundelfestival.co.uk/tickets
Enjoy the Arundel Festival of the Arts 2021. There really is something for everyone and you will be spoilt for choice. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media!
For more information about fundraising, volunteering opportunities and to sponsor or donate contact secretary@arundelfestival.co.uk
Please Note: Festival events are subject to amendment and Covid guidance.
By Barb Hogan, Visit Arundel
Photos: Charlie Waring