Swindon’s town centre has been buzzing with life this month as thousands have flocked to Wharf Green for Summer at the Green – a free family festival that has run throughout August and is now gearing up for its final, and biggest, weekend.
Organised by Swindon Borough Council with the backing of local businesses and community groups, the month-long series of events has brought something new to the heart of the town every week. From circus skills to bubble displays, pop-up skateboarding to open-air cinema, the programme has given families plenty of reason to head into the centre during the school holidays.
Parents have welcomed the chance to enjoy a day out without worrying about the cost. One visitor said:“My boys had so much fun and I can’t even believe it’s free. So good to have a day out with the kids and I didn’t even hear ‘oh mummy we’re bored, can we go back home.’”
Another added: “Great event, great to see a council put something nice on that kids can enjoy for free during these harsh economic times. It’s brilliant to see attempts made to liven up the town centre.”
The final weekend promises to be a showstopper. Running across the Bank Holiday (23–25 August), highlights include a pop-up planetarium created in partnership with Immersive Experiences, the National Literacy Trust and the National Trust. Visitors will be able to step inside the dome to explore the wonders of space, try on an astronaut suit, handle a real meteorite, and even travel through the stars in virtual reality.
Bank Holiday Monday brings the festival to a close with live music and street performances, including appearances from Swindon’s Elvis, Rhythmix Goa and Billy and Louie, plus face painting and family fun. The day will also feature a very Swindon twist – the search for the town’s next crier, with Swindon 105.5 and Eastcott Studios helping to host the contest.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning at Swindon Borough Council, said: “It’s so great to see so many people enjoying the Summer at the Green events that we’ve put on throughout August. I’ve really enjoyed seeing families having fun and getting involved. A big thank you to all our partner organisations and to the Council team for bringing it all together. There’s still one weekend left which looks set to be just as amazing, so please join us if you can.”
With a pop-up park also running all month for children, the council hopes the programme has not only provided entertainment but also encouraged more people to spend time in the town centre.
The curtain will fall on Summer at the Green this Monday – but not before one final celebration.
