Cambridge - City of Festivals

Written by Harriet Brown | Apr 21, 2020 4:46:00 AM

With its historic town centre, ancient buildings, and stunning colleges, it’s no surprise that Cambridge is a must-see city for any visitor to the UK. But perhaps less well-known are the wealth of special events and festivals taking place throughout the year, all of which help to make Cambridge such a vibrant and exciting place to live. Whether you’re a tourist, a resident, a family or a student, there’s something here for everyone.

Cambridge Literary Festival

Unsurprisingly for such a highly educated area, Cambridge boasts not one but two yearly literary festivals, celebrating the best in writing. Bringing together journalists, novelists, politicians, poets and broadcasters, previous festivals have included appearances from such eminent figures as Zadie Smith, Donna Tartt, Chimamanda Ngoze Adichie, Ruth Padel and A C Grayling. With talks, debates, musical performances and panel discussions, Cambridge’s Literary Festival is sure to leave you feeling more cultured than before.

Cambridge Folk Festival

Like live music? Then you’ll love Cambridge’s Folk Festival. One of the biggest events of its kind, it regularly attracts crowds of up to 14,000 people, all keen to hear an eclectic mix of bands from all over the world.

With performances from luminaries such as Cat Stevens, Seasick Steve and Suzanne Vega, the shows are regularly televised for any unfortunate music fans who are unable to attend in person. Those who do make the effort will be rewarded with an unparalleled range of gigs to choose from, and even the chance to join in themselves with one of the festival’s many jamming sessions in bars and pubs.

Midsummer Fair

Cambridge’s Midsummer Fair is an event with a truly historic pedigree, dating back 800 years to the Middle Ages. The character of the fair has changed considerably over the years - a trade fair in medieval times, it was also famous for selling china in the 18th century, and then as a horse and cattle market. These days, however, it’s a great family day out, with an array of exciting activities to choose from. Terrify yourself on the fairground rides, test your shooting skills at the sideshows, shop til you drop at the craft and accessory booths, boogie on down to the live music performances, and refresh yourself at one of the many food stalls. Don’t forget to try the candyfloss!

Strawberry Fair

No money? No problem! Strawberry Fair is an entirely free, volunteer-run arts and music event held every year in June. Held on Midsummer Common, this is one of Cambridge’s most famous and popular events, attracting around 30,000 visitors each year. This one-day extravaganza features everything from circus and dance performers to a kids park and ‘battle of the bands’ competition. And if you need any help, why not ask one of the ‘Strawberry Fairies’ - the name for the volunteers who generously donate their time to make the whole event possible.

E-Luminate Festival

Shining a cheerful ray in the depths of the night, this festival of light features dazzling installations to chase away the winter gloom. Follow one of the Trail of Light walks to see Cambridge’s historic town centre as never before; buildings are lit up in a rainbow of shades, interspersed with spectacular artworks to brighten up your day. But E-Luminate is about so much more than just lighting - aiming to bring together an intersection of art and science, there are also talks, demonstrations, and the ‘Glow Games’, where you can take a turn at multi-sports in the dark with UV lighting. Midnight table tennis, anyone?

Mill Road Winter Fair

This December fair offers a rare opportunity to see Mill Road without traffic - other than human, of course! This winter extravaganza offers everything from a parade and dance gala, street performers, and live music to a dog show and exhibitions from local artists. Sip a warming cup of mulled wine whilst you browse the craft stalls - the perfect way to start your Christmas shopping - or go for something more fortifying at a traditional sausage stall. With live reindeer, morris dancing, bollywood performances and a Chinese dragon, this is the perfect outing for the whole family to enjoy.

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