Iconic festival returns to Dorset
This year’s Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival takes place from 14-16 July
Last updated 13th Jun 2023
An iconic family-friendly festival is returning to Dorset, celebrating the heritage of the Tolpuddle Martyrs and the victory of people power.
The weekend will be full of hot topic discussions, music and comedy, workshops and activities.
This year’s Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival takes place from 14-16 July, and is expected to attract high-profile speakers, trade union general secretaries, striking key workers.
The event is also expected to attract a mass gathering of 'changemakers' and ordinary working people who are passionate about making the world a better place.
The popular weekend long event is attended by thousands of trade unions from across the world in memory of the six farmworkers transported to Australia after joining a union in 1834.
Billy Bragg headlines the Festival as part of his 40 year anniversary tour; he is joined by international legend and former child soldier Emmanuel Jal, Welsh sensation NoGood Boyo, and other dynamic acts such as She Drew the Gun and Lady Nade.
The Festival also boasts over 30 debates and workshops, including the cost-of-living crisis, education, the NHS and numerous worker-led stories across a range of sectors.
This year also marks the arrival of the new Organising Tent, where festival goers will be able to participate in hands-on workshops and training.
Other entertainment over the weekend includes DJ sessions, the popular Friday night comedy show, open mic sessions, and a Kids’ Area, with face-painting, pizza making, and more.
TUC Regional Secretary Ines Lage said: “In the middle of economic and financial crises, working people, their families and trade unions have taken centre stage as they fight for fairer and better terms and treatment.
“Hundreds of thousands of workers have been driven to taking industrial action. Many for the first time ever.
“The Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival is a place for working people to share their stories, build strength and solidarity, whilst relaxing and letting off some steam with their friends and families.
“Every year people share that this Festival recharges them and gives hope through struggle. This year is no different.
Trades unions are ultimately networks of support and solidarity. The Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival celebrates what our movement has accomplished so far and revives us for the year to come.”