Saturday 8 June 2024, 11am – 5pm
Forbury Gardens, Reading Abbey Ruins, Chestnut Walk and Riverside Walk
Back again for its 35th year, Water Fest celebrates and shows off the Kennet and Avon Canal in all its glory, as well as the many historic spots that can be found along the towpath.
This accessible one-day event, brought to you by Reading Borough Council in partnership with the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust, takes place on Saturday 8 June between 11am and 5pm, within the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins and along the River Kennet, celebrating the Abbey’s rich 900-year history and its environmental and heritage connections with Reading’s waterways. 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.
For the full programme of activities and events taking place on the day please visit this page nearer the time.
Our charging fees will cover your pitch and parking facility for the duration of the day. If you are a charity the pitch fee is £33.58, for community groups the fee will be £44.83. For all commercial stalls there will be a charge of £112 per stall, however we will be offering a 10% early bird discount for any stall (charity, community or commercial) who apply before the 18 March. If you are providing a free of charge activity e.g. a workshop or performance on the day then we will waive this fee.