Thousands expected at Reading's Water fest
The free festival is in its 36th year!
Last updated 27th Jun 2025
Reading Borough Council’s Water Fest celebrates and shows off the Kennet and Avon Canal in all its glory, as well as the many historic spots that can be found along the towpath.
The free one-day event, now in its 36th year, takes place on Saturday 28 June between 11am and 5pm, within the Forbury Gardens, Abbey Ruins and along the River Kennet, celebrating the Abbey’s rich 900-year history and its environmental and heritage connections with Reading’s waterways.
Water Fest is Reading’s annual celebration of the river the town was built on, which became a canal in 1723. The event showcases the Kennet and the gorgeous and historic spots on its towpath. Visitors will be able to take in the sights and sounds as they wander through Chestnut Walk and admire the beautifully painted boats, Riverside Walk, Forbury Gardens and the renowned Abbey Ruins where there will be a mix of traditional and contemporary music and dance across four stages. Visitors will be also able to explore the public plaza at Huntley Wharf.
Highlights on the day include:
Nature Nurture’s immersive outdoor adventure in Forbury Gardens, exploring the hidden connections between people, plants, and animals.
Charity Super.Mkt pop-up event - a range of stalls boasting carefully curated collections of second-hand treasures, chic, pre-loved clothing and accessories plus the people’s catwalk at 2pm and 4pm.
A specially curated sustainable fashion show taking place in front of the Maiwand Lion at 4.30pm.
Forbury Gardens will host Blue Collar Street Food Market.
Mikron Theatre Company’s special performance at 6pm of Operation Beach Hut at Huntley Wharf.
Plus, blacksmith demos, garment upcycling workshops, live music and lots more
Find out more at [https://www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/things-to-do/events/water-fest/](https://www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/things-to-do/events/water-fest/ |newtab)
Inspiring
Cllr Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Leisure and Culture, said: “There is so much to look forward to at Water Fest 2025, which will be the 36th year of this fantastic free festival. This year's event, on Saturday 28 June, has the planet at its heart, celebrating our beautiful waterways and inspiring everyday action and changes we can all take to protect them.”