Leicester is preparing for its largest free annual event as the Riverside Festival returns to the banks of the River Soar this June. With more than 60,000 visitors expected to attend, the 2026 edition introduces significant changes to the layout and schedule, designed to accommodate growing crowds and showcase local creative talent.
The festival takes place across Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7. Activities will stretch along the River Soar’s Mile Straight, encompassing Bede Park, the De Montfort University (DMU) campus, and the historic Castle Gardens. This year, organizers have confirmed extended opening hours, with the program running until 8:00 PM on Saturday and 7:00 PM on Sunday.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | Saturday 6 June & Sunday 7 June |
| Locations | Bede Park, River Soar, Castle Gardens, DMU Campus |
| Main Stage | New central location at Bede Park |
| Saturday Hours | Open until 8:00 PM |
| Sunday Hours | Open until 7:00 PM |
| Cost | Free admission for all areas |
Bede Park becomes the festival’s new musical heart
For the first time in the event’s history, the main stage will be relocated to the center of Bede Park. This shift creates a dedicated focal point for the musical lineup, which remains entirely free to the public. The shift in geography allows for better crowd flow between the park and the nearby DMU campus, where additional stalls and food vendors will be situated.
The musical program focuses heavily on local talent, showcasing a variety of genres from Leicester-based artists. By extending the performance times into the early evening, the festival aims to provide a more relaxed atmosphere for families and residents to enjoy the sunset performances. A wide selection of international street food, licensed bars, and craft markets will surround the musical hubs, offering local traders a platform to reach a massive audience.
Waterborne activities and pop-up galleries on the River Soar
The River Soar remains the literal and figurative centerpiece of the weekend. Visitors can access the water through organized kayaking sessions and boat rides along the Mile Straight. A highlight for many will be the dragon boat racing, which is scheduled exclusively for Sunday, bringing a competitive edge to the riverside festivities.
Beyond the physical activities, the riverbanks will transform into a cultural corridor. A pop-up art gallery will line the waterside, featuring works from local photographers and painters. Walkabout entertainers, including street performers and musicians, will navigate the paths between the Mile Straight and Castle Gardens, ensuring the entertainment remains continuous for those walking between the different festival zones.
Creative workshops and immersive technology at Castle Gardens
Additional funding from Arts Council England has enabled a significant expansion of the festival’s interactive offerings. Castle Gardens and the surrounding areas will host a variety of hands-on workshops designed for all ages. Literati Arts will provide pop-up poetry sessions, while Graffwerk will lead street art creation workshops for those looking to try their hand at mural painting.
Technology and sustainability also take a prominent role this year. Metro Boulot Dodo is returning to Leicester with an immersive virtual reality experience, following their acclaimed projection work at Leicester Cathedral. For those interested in sustainable fashion, upcycling workshops will be available, teaching participants how to redesign and repair clothing.
Planning your visit to the Mile Straight and DMU campus
With 60,000 people expected, visitors are encouraged to use public transport or active travel options to reach the city center. The festival site is a short walk from Leicester’s main transport hubs, and dedicated cycle parking will be available near the DMU campus.
The event’s infrastructure has been bolstered by the inclusion of four Young Producers. These individuals are working alongside the city’s events team to manage logistics and planning, providing a fresh perspective on the festival’s delivery. This initiative serves as a practical training ground for local youth entering the creative and events industries.
Detailed maps and accessibility information are available through the official Visit Leicester channels. Updates regarding specific performance times and new additions to the arts program will be shared via social media in the weeks leading up to the June weekend.
Source: Leicester City Council
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