Bedford Tourism Office

For two days every second year since 1978, Bedford’s River Great Ouse and it’s urroundings come alive as thousands of people enjoy one of the country’s largest free outdoor festivals. This year’s River Festival will feature the grand parade, children’s activities at the arts, sports and cultural villages, dance and drama on the community stage, arena events, trade stalls and a Continental market, live music on 3 stages and fireworks to conclude Saturday’s activities, historic re-enactments and on the river, the ever popular raft race, rowing and Dragon Boat racing and night time illuminated flotilla.