Rich programme of events

Born 18 years ago when a small group of friends decided to tap into the plethora of talent in the area, the festival now takes place at 20 venues, indoors and outdoors, across the market town.

The festival has grown to include over 70 events embracing traditional and modern dancing in the street, children’s events, family fairs and picnics, drama, a family barn dance, a vintage car and motorcycle rally and an annual contribution from the Allotments Society with its open day.

Local talent is the mainstay of the festival but nationally and internationally famous names have been seen on the StonyLive! stages.

This year’s festival takes place from Saturday June 4 through to Sunday June 12.

One of the highlights this year is The Big Lunch from noon to 4pm on Sunday June 5 to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. Taking place at Wolverton Road recreation ground, food will include a pig roast, fish and chips and Asian dishes and there will be live music from the New Bradwell Silver Band, storytelling, a treasure hunt and a fly past by a wartime Dakota.

Most events are free to attend, and there are several open sessions where musicians, poets and storytellers are invited to join in, but the larger venues host individually ticketed shows.

Venues include many of the town’s eight pubs, several restaurants, the church and community halls, library, the streets and open spaces surrounding the town.

All the details about events and venues can be found at www.stonylive.info and in the printed programme which is now available around the town and includes details of car parking and transport.