Wath Festival 2026

About

The Wath Festival returns for its 53rd anniversary, continuing a tradition of music, arts, and community celebrations that began in 1973. This three-day event showcases a mix of household names and local talent, featuring live concerts, traditional dancing, and free family activities throughout the town.

Date & Time

Friday 1st May – Sunday 3rd May 2026
Friday: Doors 7pm, Start 7:30pm
Saturday: From 10am
Sunday: 1:30pm – 4pm and 7pm – 10pm

Location

Various venues and locations in Wath upon Deane

Why Visit?

This long-standing community festival offers a unique blend of professional folk music and quirky local traditions. Visitors can enjoy high-energy headline performances at the Rugby Club or participate in the historic bread roll throwing from the church spire. With a mix of ticketed concerts and free town centre entertainment, it provides an accessible cultural experience for music fans and families alike.

Event Highlights

• Headline concert by The Bar-Steward Sons of Val-Doonican.
• Traditional reading of the Will of Thomas Tuke and bread roll throwing from the church spire.
• Free family activities including a treasure hunt and children’s workshops.
• Performances by Jackie Oates, John Spiers, and Anthony John Clarke.
• Street entertainment featuring Morris teams and local school dancers.
• Market stalls, food vendors, and impromptu music sessions in local hostelries.

Admission

• Adult tickets from £10.00 to £20.00
• Family Ceilidh ticket £5.00
• Single Ceilidh ticket £2.00
• Free entry for town centre activities and workshops
• Plus more – see event website for details

Plan Your Visit

Events are held across multiple venues in Wath upon Dearne, near Rotherham – including the Rugby Club on Moor Road, St James Room on Church Street, and the Holiday Inn Express at Manvers Way. The main Saturday celebrations take place in Montgomery Square from 10am. Visitors are encouraged to book concert tickets in advance as seating at the St James Room is strictly limited.