John Clare Festival timetable, 2026

The John Clare Festival 2026 from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July has something for everyone… Whether you’re a Clare connoisseur, a nature-lover, or simply live in and around Helpston, we have talks, poetry, a concert, open gardens, artists’ exhibitions, tasty lunches, Morris Dancers, folk music and family activities. And this year we are celebrating the 45th anniversary of the John Clare Society! Dedicated to … Continue reading John Clare Festival timetable, 2026

John Clare Society Festival 2026

The annual John Clare Society festival will be held in Helpston from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th July 2026. The theme will be the family. There will again be a full programme of activities involving lectures, walks, entertainment and poetry readings. The John Clare Cottage will be open throughout the main day of the festival, Saturday 11 July. A highlight on that day will be … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2026

John Clare Society Festival 2025

Roll up, roll up, not for the fair but for something just as much fun because of the variety of events on offer, all in one place, Helpston, over two Summer days. The celebrations start on Friday 11th July 2025 at St. Botolph’s Church when the children of the John Clare Primary School gather to bring their Midsummer Cushions and to receive prizes in the annual Poetry … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2025

John Clare Society Festival 2024

This year we are having a two-day Festival, starting on Friday July 12th with the traditional laying of the Midsummer Cushions on John Clare’s grave, from 1pm.  The entire John Clare Primary School will be going to St. Botolph’s Church in class groups and everyone is invited to attend – parents, grandparents, carers, friends, siblings, anyone else living locally, and visitors.  It is always a happy occasion.  The … Continue reading John Clare Society Festival 2024