Festival History

1964
2024

1964

The First Festival

The first Bollington Festival, led by Dr John Coope, was held in 1964. Events included a “Dance to the two Beat Groups” in the marquee (tickets 4 shillings), a bowls tournament and a horticultural show.

Here’s Tim Boddington’s YouTube video of Eric Wainwright’s film of the 1964 Festival:

1968

1974

1980

1986

1993

2000

2005

2009

2014

 

2019

2024

The global pandemic and resulting challenging economic climate, resulted in a more modest four-day Festival. The
Diamond Jubilee Jamboree marked the 60th anniversary of the Festival in style, with a covered stage on the Recreation
Ground and the introduction of a vintage tea tent. All the day time events were completely free and the evenings were
highlighted by some fabulous open air concerts.