Water Fest

Saturday 27 June 2026, 11am – 5pm
Forbury Gardens, Reading Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk and Riverside Walk

We are delighted to announce that this year’s Water Fest will be returning to the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins and along the River Kennet taking place on Saturday 27 June between 11am and 5pm.

Back again for its 37th year, Water Fest celebrates and shows off the Kennet and Avon Canal in all its glory, as well as the many gorgeous and historic spots that can be found along the towpath. This year’s event will directly respond to the council’s pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030, using environmental and climate change themes through creative programming and workshops on the day.

Water Fest is Reading’s way of celebrating and showing off the Kennet Canal in all its glory, along with the gorgeous and historic spots on its towpath. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds as they wander through Chestnut Walk, Forbury Gardens, the renowned Abbey Ruins. En route you’ll see some beautifully painted boats and meet some of the friendly boaters keen to chat about life on board.

If you would like to take part by running a stall, activity or a workshop as part of Water Fest please fill in our Water Fest expression of interest form.

Further information on activities on the day will be available nearer the time of the event.

For more information
Tel: 0118 937 2771 or 0118 937 2395
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Rdgwaterfest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rdgwaterfest/
Twitter: https://x.com/RdgWaterFest