Hitchin Festival 2023 returns!

Hitchin Festival, a celebration of culture, entertainment and local businesses returns with more than 70 unique talks, walks, concerts, theatre shows, exhibitions and more from Saturday, July 1 through until to Monday, July 31.

Among the many events this year, a highlight includes the return of 'The Art Trail', run by Hitchin Creative and turning Hitchin into a giant art gallery with more than 40 town centre venues featuring the work of artists from around the town and members of Hitchin Creative.   

Other notable events include; 'Local Authors, Local Venues' a series of six readings from local authors catering to all ages and taking place in three local venues, Fabios, Halsey's Deli and Gusto's in Churchgate.

There will also be the following: 'Gertrude Lawrence; A lovely way to spend an evening' at St Mary's Church, the Historical play 'Anne & Matilda' at the Market Theatre, Hitchin Town Hall's 'Beer Festival', 'Where are you Hartley Bear?' a heart-warming adventure for children at Hitchin Library, a variety of concerts from the likes of Hitchin Band, Hitchin Chamber Orchestra and Hitchin Concert band plus others and of course the regular series of free lunchtime concerts at St Mary's Church. 

Glyn Doggett, organiser, and chair of Hitchin Festival

Glyn Doggett, organiser, and chair of the festival says: "We want to say a huge thanks to everyone putting on events this year.

"There are so many it's impossible to list them all but, as always, we do have something for everyone" he continued.

"A big part of Hitchin Festival is showcasing just some of the arts, culture and local businesses on offer in Hitchin all year round, from clubs like the Hitchin Art Club and the Hitchin Historical Society to venues like the British Schools Museum.

"I encourage people to pick up a programme and perhaps do something they wouldn't normally do; they may even find a new hobby or new place to visit in the process." 

This year the festival committee which consists of the three directors, Glyn, Tim Farr and councillor Keith Hoskins along with Box Office supervisor Cherry Lincoln have support from the Community Interest Company Hitchin Creative.

Hitchin Creative was set up to discover, develop, support, and promote all aspects of the arts in Hitchin and the surrounding area.

Glyn said: "We are delighted to be supported by this new creative network and the team are running a number of events this year including a Hitchin Creative Day to launch the festival on Saturday, July 1, and already planning an even bigger role next year to help grow the festival and hopefully increase opportunities for local creatives in town and around."

Glyn also acknowledged the support of the Hitchin BID and Hitchin Initiative Team who provide help with running the box office and distributing programmes.  He said, "It's truly a community effort and their support in making the festival such a success is invaluable". 

The full programme for the 2023 Hitchin Festival is available to pick up from the Hitchin Town Information Centre as well as other shops in and around Hitchin.

The box office is running as usual from the Hitchin Information Office in Churchyard and is open Monday – Saturday 10am – 4pm.

You can also see the programme and book tickets via www.hitchinfestival.co.uk.