THE ring of bells and the smacking of clash sticks echoed through Upton as it welcomed over a thousand visitors for the second day of its 2026 folk festival.
Those visiting Upton will be greeted with a “colourful feast for the eyes” with morris and Ceilidh dances taking place across the town for its annual event.
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Taking place annually for more than 30 years, the Upton Folk Festival claims to be the biggest event of its kind and is considered the start of the season for some morris dancers.
The festival features live concerts, Ceilidhs, Morris dancing and live music throughout the May Bank Holiday Weekend.
FAMILY FRIENDLY: Wren Pressleton arrived in her Morris outfit. (Image: Newsquest)
Every one of the sides was able to perform for ten minutes outside the Kings Head Pub today and there will be a ‘massive procession’ through the town tomorrow at midday.
A spokesperson for Ragged Oak said: “This festival means the start of the season – the start of the festival season.
YUMMY: Crista Beaumont-Voice and Christopher Fish enjoying ice cream. (Image: Newsquest)
“We dance all year round but it feels like it really starts here.
“All the people meters from each other and it’s a feast for the eyes.”
A collection of stalls was also spotted across the waterfront.
PACKED: Over a thousand people visited Upton on the second day of the festival. (Image: Newsquest)
One of the stallholders was Quirky Souls who was selling a range of crystals and jewellery.
“It’s an absolutely fabulous place and everyone is so happy and having a great time,” a spokesperson for the business said.
ENTERTAINMENT: Dancers from Belly Fusion Dance Collective. (Image: Newsquest)
“We just came for the atmosphere and will be at the Battle of Evesham Market next week.”
Performing at the festival are Andrew McKay and Carole Etherton, the Laners, Mice in a Matchbox, Mick Holditch, the Waite Collective, Jess and Richard Arrowsmith, Gloucester Diamonds, Benji Kirkpatrick, Rosie Hood Band, Vital Spark, and John Kirkpatrick and Sue Harris.
The festival started on May 1 and will continue through to May 4.
