Sunshine Festival
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From August 24th through 30th, 2026, the sunny town of Upton-upon-Severn will come alive with the joyful energy of the Sunshine Festival. Set against the peaceful banks of the River Severn with views to the Malvern Hills, this week-long celebration brings together music, art, and community in a friendly summer setting. As warm rays dance across riverside meadows, visitors and locals alike gather to enjoy sunshine-filled days of entertainment. With multiple stages scattered throughout the festival grounds, attendees are treated to an inspiring lineup of musical acts ranging from folk and jazz to upbeat rock and pop. Whether you're lounging on the grass with friends or discovering a new favorite band, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming - a perfect blend of festival excitement and small-town charm.
Each day is filled with activities and performances. Popular local bands and visiting musicians play on several stages, offering a mix of acoustic sets and full-band concerts. Visitors can wander through artisan stalls showcasing crafts, artwork, and handmade souvenirs that capture the festival's creative spirit. Food vendors line the grounds with fresh local treats — from farm-to-table meals to grab-and-go snacks and sweet goodies — so nobody goes hungry. Open workshops invite anyone to try something new, from painting under the open sky to learning a few guitar chords. Even a casual morning yoga session on the dew-fresh grass helps set a relaxed tone for the festivities ahead. All around, the hum of conversation and bursts of live music create an uplifting soundscape. The atmosphere is one of discovery and joy, encouraging everyone to explore, dance, and laugh together in the sunshine.
Sunshine Festival is wonderful for families and kids. There's a special kids' area where little ones can play with face painting, storytelling circles, and creative crafts just their size. Family-friendly performances and workshops keep everybody entertained; juggling lessons and puppet shows often pop up on the schedule. In the afternoons, parents might relax with cold drinks under a shady tree, chatting with new friends, while kids burn off energy on the lawn or in the playground. The all-ages vibe means grandparents and young attendees often share smiles and dance moves, truly making it a multi-generational get-together. Friendly volunteers are always on hand to help families find what they need, so everyone can enjoy peace of mind and have fun from toddler to adult.
As the sun sets and turns golden, a magical evening unfolds. Twinkling fairy lights strung between trees and cozy fire pits set an enchanted mood as the final acts begin. Evening concerts showcase headline performers across genres to surprise and delight concertgoers. People often gather on blankets or portable chairs around bonfires, toasting marshmallows or simply gazing up at the starry sky. The river reflects the golden glow of lamps, adding romance to the air. Late-night acoustic jams and impromptu dance circles keep the spirit alive long after dark. Even when the music slows to a lullaby, the warmth of the gathering lingers; it's not uncommon for friendly neighbors to spontaneously break into a campfire sing-along. Sunshine Festival's nights are as inviting as its days - a perfect ending to joyful days in the heart of summer.
By car, Upton-upon-Severn is very accessible via the M5 and M50 motorways. From the north, leave the M5 at Junction 7 (Worcester North) or Junction 6 (Worcester South) and follow signs to the A38 toward Upton. From the southwest, take the M50 and exit onto the B4080 toward Ham Lane. In town, a large car park on Hanley Road provides ample parking for cars and coaches, and additional parking is often organized during busy events. Driving through the Worcestershire countryside offers scenic views of rolling hills and rivers, though you may find local roads like the B4211 crowded when attendees arrive.
Public transport options include train and bus. The nearest main stations are Worcester Foregate Street and Worcester Shrub Hill (about 10 miles away) and Great Malvern (about 6 miles away). Worcester has frequent services from Birmingham and London via CrossCountry and West Midlands Railway. Great Malvern lies on the line between Worcester and Hereford. From either station, you can take a taxi or catch a local bus to Upton-upon-Severn. Stagecoach and other local buses serve Upton from Worcester and Malvern, though services may be limited in the evenings, so check schedules in advance. Taxis are generally available from the stations or can be booked in advance for your journey to the festival.
For air travelers, the nearest major airport is Birmingham Airport (BHX), approximately 60 miles away (about a 1-1.5 hour drive). Bristol Airport (BRS) is roughly 85 miles (around 1.5-2 hours by car) and Cardiff Airport about 100 miles (also about 1.5-2 hours away). London’s airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, etc.) are farther, around 100-130 miles (roughly 2.5-3 hours by road). Once in Upton-upon-Severn, visitors will find a selection of local accommodations such as inns, bed & breakfasts, and country hotels. The historic towns of Malvern and Worcester (each under 15 miles away) offer additional lodging, restaurants, and amenities. Many festival-goers also enjoy camping: on-site camping or nearby campsites can provide a comfortable outdoor stay. Because accommodations fill up quickly during this busy time, booking lodging or camping spots in advance is highly recommended.
Upton Upon Severn, WR80JN
Festivals Near Upton Upon Severn
