Reading Events Guide: What’s On in Reading Town

Reading, a vibrant town in Berkshire, offers something for everyone—discover it all with this helpful Reading events guide. If you’re planning to visit or live in Reading, you’ll never be short of exciting events to enjoy. Whether you love music, food, art, or family-friendly activities, Reading offers something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a closer look at what’s on in Reading, so you can plan your visit accordingly.

Music Festivals and Concerts

Reading is home to a variety of live music events throughout the year. From large festivals to intimate performances, the town is a hotspot for music lovers.

Reading Festival

Perhaps the most famous event in Reading is the Reading Festival. Held every August, this festival attracts thousands of visitors from across the UK and beyond. With its iconic history, it’s one of the biggest rock festivals in the country. Bands from all genres perform on multiple stages, ensuring there’s something for every music fan. Whether you like rock, indie, or alternative music, the Reading Festival is an unmissable event.

Live Music Venues

Throughout the year, several venues in Reading host live music performances. Sub89 and The Hexagon are popular spots for local and touring bands. For a more intimate experience, The Oakford Social Club is known for hosting live gigs by emerging talent. Keep an eye on their schedules to catch your favourite artists.

Food Festivals and Markets: Reading Events Guide

Reading also has a thriving food scene, and there’s no shortage of food-related events to indulge your taste buds.

Reading Food Festival

One of the best food events in the town is the Reading Food Festival, usually held in September. The festival celebrates everything from local delicacies to international cuisines. Furthermore, you can enjoy street food, attend cooking workshops, and sample food from local restaurants. It’s the perfect event for food lovers to try something new and enjoy delicious flavours.

Reading Farmers’ Market

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the Reading Farmers’ Market takes place every Thursday. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal bread, and homemade treats. This market supports local farmers and producers, so it’s great for those who want to eat sustainably.

Cultural Events and Exhibitions

Reading is a town with a deep cultural heritage, and you can experience it through various exhibitions and events.

The Museum of Reading

The Museum of Reading is an excellent spot for history buffs and those interested in local culture. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts exhibitions on the town’s history, including its famous links to the author Kenneth Grahame, who wrote The Wind in the Willows. Whether you’re exploring ancient artefacts or more modern exhibits, there’s plenty to discover.

Reading’s Art Galleries

If you’re an art enthusiast, Reading has several galleries showcasing local talent. The Reading Museum and Art Gallery often displays exhibitions from both established and emerging artists. Meanwhile, The Art of Living Gallery offers a more contemporary feel, with rotating exhibitions that highlight various forms of art and photography.

Family-Friendly Activities: Reading Events Guide

Reading is a wonderful place to visit with children, thanks to its variety of family-friendly events and activities.

Reading Play Days

Reading Play Days are special events held during the summer months, where families can enjoy outdoor activities, face painting, and games. It’s a fun way to spend a day with the kids while also exploring the beautiful parks and open spaces in the town.

The Living Rainforest

For nature-loving families, The Living Rainforest is a fantastic place to visit. Located just outside Reading, it offers an educational experience where you can learn about tropical plants, animals, and ecosystems. It’s perfect for children to enjoy an interactive learning experience, while parents can relax in the tranquil setting.

Theatre and Performance Arts: Reading Events Guide

For those who appreciate the theatre, Reading has a number of venues offering a variety of performances.

The Hexagon Theatre

The Hexagon Theatre is the main venue for theatre lovers in Reading. It hosts a variety of performances, including live theatre shows, musicals, and comedy acts. Whether you want to enjoy a classic play or a modern performance, the Hexagon’s diverse programme ensures there’s always something on offer.

South Street Arts Centre

The South Street Arts Centre is a smaller venue with a focus on independent theatre, music, and dance performances. It’s the perfect place to see new and experimental works, and many of its events are family-friendly.

Sports Events and Outdoor Activities

If you’re more into sports, Reading offers plenty of events for those who enjoy active pursuits.

Reading Half Marathon

The Reading Half Marathon is one of the most popular sports events in the town. Held every March, it attracts runners from all over the world. It’s a fantastic event for both spectators and participants, with a festive atmosphere and a chance to cheer on the runners as they race through the town.

Boat and River Activities

With its location by the River Thames, Reading offers numerous opportunities for water-based activities. You can hire a boat or take part in a river tour. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and even river cruises are available, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery in and around Reading.

Seasonal Events: Reading Events Guide

Reading has a busy calendar throughout the year, with events to suit every season.

Christmas Market

During the winter months, Reading Christmas Market transforms the town centre into a festive wonderland. With its wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and delicious seasonal treats, it’s a must-visit event. Overall, from handcrafted gifts to mulled wine, the market creates a magical atmosphere for all ages.

Summer in the Parks

Summer brings a host of outdoor events, including live music, theatre, and cinema screenings in the parks. Forbury Gardens and Prospect Park are two popular locations where you can enjoy free outdoor performances, perfect for picnics with family or friends.

Conclusion

In summary, Reading is a town full of life, with something exciting happening every month of the year. From world-class music festivals to food markets, cultural exhibitions, and family-friendly activities, there’s always something for everyone. Be sure to check the local event calendars for the latest happenings and make the most of your time in this vibrant town. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Reading promises unforgettable experiences.