Welcome to Holmfirth Arts Festival 2026

All events at our annual Big Free Weekend from 12-14 June, will be FREE or Pay As You Decide this year, thanks to our funders.
The popular River of Art will return to the banks of the River Holme for everyone to enjoy, a ‘Mass Brass’ ensemble will accompany the parade, which takes place from 4.30pm on Saturday 13 June.
There will be traditional British and contemporary Brazilian music, Bhangra and French Breton dancing and songs from the Wooldale Warblers, along with giant puppets, craft workshops, VR experiences, aerial circus spectacle and you might bump into some Nora Battys.

This year we are again celebrating the theme ‘Flow’, embracing our environment and the people in it. Our focus is on the new springs of local talent that are bubbling up in our vibrant valley, and we are showcasing some of the creativity of some of our younger people. Look out for pop up performances and showcases during the festival. We are also continuing to celebrate the Graveship of Holme, which will be represented in this year’s Townships in Flow Parade. Please come along to one of our free making events and become part of the parade yourself.

Don't forget the New Streams Emerging Talent Showcase on Sunday 28 June, at The Picturedrome, Holmfirth.

Discover the next wave of creative voices in this vibrant showcase of emerging artists from local high and music schools. Expect fresh ideas, bold performances and amazing talent topped off with the unique sound of local band, Deadwax,  mixing UK hip-hop, dance, and metal.