Stream the Leys Festival: Listen to the podcast episodes for free on soundcloud
The Leys Festival is back and bigger than ever! Get ready for an unforgettable day full of music, food and fun for all the family, created and planned by over 60 passionate residents and community organisers from Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys. This isn’t just any festival – it’s one of Oxford’s most beloved free community events and this year’s festival promises more excitement than ever before.
Celebrating the incredible bonds and positive relationships fostered within Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys, this year’s theme, ‘Building Bridges,’ highlights the unity and energy invested in connecting different generations and cultures within this vibrant community.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary celebration of unity, diversity and joy!
See the Music and Dance Programme here
See the Sport Programme here
Erica Whyman, the Creative Lead for the Festival, caught up with some of our food providers to find out what food and cooking mean to people in the Leys and discovered a lot of passion, and some great recipes. Listen here.
Highlights to look forward to:
- Music, Dance & Spoken Word: Feel the rhythm of the community with performances from local talents, featuring everything from Reggae beats and powerful Spoken Word to vibrant Nepalese dance. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or discovering new artists, there’s something to move and inspire you.
- Affordable Food: Embark on a culinary adventure with mouthwatering dishes from around the world, all priced at £5 or less! Each meal comes with a story you can find in Recipe Corner to learn more.
- Building Bridges: Join the creative fun by helping to construct beautiful decorative bridges from recycled materials along the stream. Add your unique design flair and leave your mark on this collaborative masterpiece.
- Memory Garden: Celebrate the heart and soul of the Leys community at the memory tree installation. Share and cherish the stories and memories that make this community so special.
- Family Fun: Bring the whole family for a day packed with excitement! From a bouncy castle and soft play areas to arts & crafts and traditional games like Tug-of-War, there’s endless fun for everyone.
- Sports: Get active with football coaching sessions from Oxford United FC and local football clubs, learn to roller skate like a pro or dive into a friendly rounders tournament.
- Mural Magic: Witness a stunning new mural come to life right before your eyes, crafted by the talented MES collective and inspired by ideas and suggestions from across the Leys.
- Quieter Space: Need a moment of calm? Relax with a cup of tea and discover the art of bowling with the Bowls Club in a serene setting.
A big thank you to Creation Theatre, Garsington Opera, The Orchestra of St John’s, The Old Fire Station and Pegasus Theatre for donating prizes to the event.