Chalfest

On July 17-18, 2026, Chalford Hill in Stroud, Gloucestershire will come alive for Chalfest, a two-day celebration of music, art, and community. Set amid the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, this friendly summer festival turns a green field into a lively village of entertainment. Picture families on picnic blankets, artists showing off handmade crafts under oak trees, and friends dancing barefoot on the grass as live music fills the air. From the moment you arrive, Chalfest's warm, welcoming vibe will make you feel right at home - get ready for two days of sunshine, smiles, and great tunes.

Music fills the air at Chalfest, with multiple stages hosting talented performers all weekend long. Perhaps your day begins with a local folk band or an acoustic singer-songwriter under the sun, then heats up on the main stage with a headline act or DJ that gets everyone dancing. The lineup mixes genres freely - from upbeat indie rock and reggae to soulful blues and pulsating electronic beats at sunset. After dark, the music - and the party - keep going under twinkling string lights and around bonfires. No matter what you love to hear, there's always something new to discover and a fun crowd to share it with at Chalford Hill.

Food, crafts, and fun are around every corner. Wind through the festival lanes and you'll find dozens of colorful stalls. Local makers fill booths with handmade crafts, artwork, jewelry, and unique festival souvenirs. The smells of delicious food drift through the air - from gourmet burgers and crispy tacos to fluffy crepes and sweet pastries. Nearby, bars offer local craft beer, crisp cider and fruity sodas, as well as coffee, herbal teas and homemade lemonade. There's even a cozy seating area inside a marquee for when you want a break from the sun. Between performances, grab something tasty and chat with new friends while you watch the world go by.

Families with kids will find plenty to smile about. Chalfest's dedicated Kids' Zone offers face painting, creative crafts, and silly games to keep little ones entertained. Children might be making friendship bracelets, learning drums in a mini jam circle, or giggling at a clown and puppet show in the shade. Parents can relax nearby and even join in a group activity if they like. The festival's open layout and gentle atmosphere make it easy to watch the kids at play while you soak up the fun - it's a weekend that both kids and grown-ups will enjoy.

What truly makes Chalfest special is its sense of community and connection to nature. This is a grassroots festival with a friendly, local feel - you'll recognize many faces (and likely make a few new friends) in the crowd. Surrounded by rolling green hills, the setting is simply beautiful. Take a moment to step away from the action and enjoy the view: maybe catch a glowing sunset from a grassy rise. Organizers love the outdoors too, providing recycling stations and water refill points to keep things green. By Sunday night you'll often spot happy festival-goers lingering around small bonfires or chatting on the grass under a sky full of stars. Those simple moments - as much as the music and art - make Chalfest truly unforgettable.

Ready for a summer weekend you won't forget? Come experience Chalfest 2026 on Chalford Hill, Stroud! Bring your friends and family for two days of music, art, and togetherness under the Gloucestershire sky. Whether you're dancing in the field, chatting with a local maker, or simply soaking up the sun on a picnic blanket, Chalfest promises a weekend of pure joy and community spirit. We can't wait to welcome you to the party!