Didcot comes together to celebrate culture and community
Everyone is invited to come together for a vibrant celebration of culture and community at the Didcot Festival of Cultures on Saturday 11 July.
The festival is a free, family friendly day of performances, workshops and food, running from 10am to 3pm at Cornerstone Arts Centre and their courtyard outside.
The event has been funded by Didcot Town Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, Healthy Didcot, Cornerstone Arts Centre and organised in partnership with Didcot Interfaith Group.
Over the past two decades, Didcot has grown into a diverse town, welcoming people from across the UK and around the world.
On festival day, Cornerstone and the courtyard outside will be filled with live music, dance, workshops, food stalls and family-friendly activities inspired by traditions and cultures from across Britain and around the world. Visitors can also enjoy a range of free workshops, including the chance to try traditional Turkish marbling art and create colourful patterns to take home, as well as an African drumming workshop and performances by the Military Wives Choir.
Cllr David Rouane, The Mayor of Didcot said: “Didcot isn’t an ancient market town, but we have our own history steeped in the railway and the military, and we have an exciting future as the Gateway to Science Vale. We look forward as well as back.
What makes Didcot special is the rapid growth of the town which means that the traditional local culture has been joined by others from around Britain and around the world.”
Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “I’m really looking forward to the Didcot Festival of Cultures. The day is a wonderful celebration of what makes Didcot such a vibrant and welcoming place and is a chance to celebrate the many cultures and communities that make up our town.
“With activities taking place throughout the arts centre and courtyard, there’ll be something for all ages to enjoy. Whether you want to watch a performance, try a new activity, sample cuisines from around the world or simply be part of the celebrations, we hope to see lots of people coming along and joining in.”
Cllr Anne-Marie Simpson, South Oxfordshire District Council Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Garden Communities, said: “What makes me proud of why Didcot is so special is the diverse mix of people from all walks of life, that have made the town their home, bringing their individuality irrespective of background, and together building and empowering community cohesion.
“The Festival of Cultures is not a chance to celebrate that diversity but for us to highlight and integrate it into the celebrations we should make every day, bringing us together as one community. Bring your friends and family along to enjoy great food, performances and activities and celebrate everything that makes Didcot such a welcoming place to live.”
The festival reflects a shared commitment to celebrating diversity, supporting community connections and creating an inclusive environment for residents and visitors. The event will bring together local community groups, businesses and professional artists for a vibrant programme celebrating a range of different cultures.
The full programme of events and the latest updates, keep an eye on Cornerstone’s website and social media channels.
