Summer Family Entertainment in Holt
Try something different in North Norfolk this July. Holt Festival provides fun for everyone with a great line-up of acts. From comedy to cabaret, you can enjoy a variety of performances. Charles Pugh, 68 from Holt, is the Artistic Director of the festival.
“Holt Festival is a brilliant, eclectic festival. I recommend it to those visiting the local area as it’s the perfect way to get to know our lovely town.”
A Stunning Location
The festival has been running since 2009 and is a top spot for locals and visitors. It’s an iconic event in the beautiful town of Holt, showcasing talent from all over the world.
Holt Festival Event
“The festival appeals to all age groups, with a vibrant Fine Art section, a fantastic free Children’s Festival and a lively community-based Festival Fringe. As for the Main Programme, many of the acts particularly appeal to a middle-aged audience.”
The performances take place throughout the town, and you can buy tickets for individual events.
“A visit to Holt Festival begins with the visual impact of a lovely Georgian town with special character. The performances take place in charming locations including; the beautiful St Andrews Church and the superb grounds of Gresham’s School.”
Annual Programme and Festival Highlights
The Holt Festival has become one of North Norfolk’s most anticipated cultural events, bringing together a diverse programme of performances, exhibitions and community activities each summer. Visitors can enjoy a packed schedule that showcases local talent alongside nationally recognised artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the town.
Music performances
Music plays a major role in the festival programme, with concerts covering a wide range of genres. From classical recitals and jazz performances to contemporary music and folk acts, there is something to suit every taste. Many events take place in unique venues around Holt, adding to the festival’s distinctive character.
Theatre, comedy and spoken word events
The festival regularly features theatre productions, comedy performances and talks from authors, broadcasters and other notable speakers. These events provide opportunities to experience high-quality entertainment in an intimate and welcoming setting.
Art exhibitions and creative workshops
Art lovers will find plenty to enjoy during the festival, with exhibitions showcasing work from local and visiting artists. Creative workshops and demonstrations often allow visitors to learn new skills and gain insight into a variety of artistic disciplines.
Family-friendly activities and community events
The Holt Festival is designed to appeal to all ages. Family-focused activities, interactive performances and community events help create a welcoming environment that encourages visitors to get involved and experience the festival spirit.
What’s On?
The festival offers a variety of entertainment, featuring the best in music, theatre and art. The shows feature top performers and speakers, with something to suit all tastes.
“Musical performances include rock, country and western, jazz, Spanish guitar, Operatic Arias and Cole Porter classics.
“Comedy includes The Gin Chronicles; a 1940s play complete with hilarious sound effects, Jasper Carrot and Kit and McConnell. Talks include editor Robert McCrum, broadcaster Tim Marshall, IVF pioneer Professor Robert Winston, veteran politician Margaret Hodge and legendary broadcaster Sue MacGregor.”
Many more acts will perform during the festival, providing eight days of entertainment.
Visitor Guide to the Holt Festival
A little planning can help you make the most of your festival experience. With numerous events taking place across several days, it’s worth reviewing the programme in advance and identifying any performances or activities you’d particularly like to attend.
Getting around Holt during the festival
Holt’s compact town centre makes it easy to explore on foot. Many festival venues are within walking distance of one another, allowing visitors to move between events while enjoying the town’s independent shops, cafés and historic streets.
Food, drink and shopping opportunities
One of the pleasures of visiting Holt is the opportunity to discover its excellent range of eateries and boutiques. Between festival events, visitors can enjoy everything from traditional tearooms and cosy pubs to independent retailers selling local products and gifts.
Booking tickets and popular events
While some festival activities may be free to attend, many performances require advance booking. Popular events often sell out quickly, so securing tickets early is recommended, particularly for headline acts and evening performances.
Additional Information
Tickets are individually priced for each performance, while some are free. More information is available on the website.
Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the box office on Theatre Street, Norwich.
A range of food and refreshments are available in the town or near most venues.
Holt is a short 14-minute drive away from The Blakeney Cottage Company HQ.
Where to Stay Near Holt
Many visitors choose to make a short break of their Holt Festival experience, allowing them to enjoy multiple events while exploring more of North Norfolk.
Staying in Holt and the surrounding area
Accommodation options can become limited during festival periods, so booking early is advisable. Staying nearby allows you to enjoy evening performances without worrying about travelling home afterwards.
Exploring North Norfolk during your visit
Holt provides an excellent base for discovering the wider region. Popular destinations such as Blakeney, Cley-next-the-Sea, Wells-next-the-Sea and Sheringham are all within easy reach, offering beautiful coastal scenery, nature reserves and traditional seaside attractions.
Benefits of a self-catering holiday cottage
A self-catering cottage gives you the freedom to enjoy the festival at your own pace while providing a comfortable place to relax after a busy day. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family or group of friends, holiday cottages offer flexibility and convenience throughout your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Holt Festival take place?
The Holt Festival is traditionally held during the summer and features a programme of events spread across several days. Dates and event schedules are announced ahead of each year’s festival.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for many performances, particularly headline events and popular evening shows, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Are there free events at the festival?
Yes. The festival often includes a mixture of ticketed and free events, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere regardless of budget.
Is the festival suitable for families?
Absolutely. Alongside music, theatre and arts events, the festival typically includes family-friendly activities and performances designed for younger audiences.
How long should I stay in Holt?
Many visitors choose to stay for a weekend or several days, giving them enough time to attend multiple events while exploring the surrounding North Norfolk area.
Enjoy One of North Norfolk’s Best Annual Events
The Holt Festival combines culture, creativity and community spirit to create one of North Norfolk’s most enjoyable annual events. With an exciting programme of music, theatre, art and family entertainment, it offers something for visitors of all ages and interests while showcasing the unique charm of Holt.
Why not turn your festival visit into a memorable North Norfolk getaway? The Blakeney Cottage Company offers a collection of carefully selected self-catering holiday cottages in some of the region’s most beautiful locations. Book your stay today and enjoy easy access to the Holt Festival, stunning coastal scenery and everything North Norfolk has to offer.