Worstead Festival is ready for a big return

The people of Worstead are ready to once again welcome thousands of visitors at the end of the month for the village’s famous festival.

The Worstead Festival is making a welcome return on July 30 and 31 after the previous two events were cancelled due to the pandemic.

Festival organiser Jane Bond said: “There’s still a huge amount of work to do, but we’ve lined up some great entertainment to create a joyous atmosphere.”

The main display ring will feature slapstick comedy from Foolhardy circus performers. Well trained dogs, ducks and dancing sheep will be on show. Pet dogs will also have a chance to shine and race and the humans can enter the egg throwing competition.

There’ll be lots of activities for children including a Lego marquee, a climbing wall and archery.  Older children can ride on a bucking mechanical bull.

Some of the best local bands will be on the music stage. The headliners on Saturday night are The Stereotypes. Other bands include Mammal Not Fish, Flann! And Soul Alliance.

Top, award-winning chefs from around the county will be displaying their talents in the food tent and entertaining with tales from the kitchen.

There will be more than 60 stalls selling arts and crafts, including the Made in Worstead marquee with ceramics, jewellery, mosaic glass and wood carving. 

The 14th century church will feature a magnificent flower festival as local choirs perform and weavers allow the public a go on a loom.

A wide variety of food and drink will be available.

Eat a wagyu burger or choose from a wide variety of other food options and wash it down with a drink from the bars or cafes.

The festival has been running since 1966 and has raised thousands of pounds for local good causes.

Tickets are £6 or £10 for the weekend. Under 12 s go free. Entry is from 10am and car parking is free. The festival ends at 7pm on Saturday and 6pm on Sunday. Organisers are aiming for a cashless festival.