UK: Henley Festival

July 11, 2009

The Henley Festival of Music and the Arts is held, at Henley on Thames, each July, on the Berkshire bank of the River Thames, at the same spot and using adapted facilities from the Henley Royal Regatta, which is held the week before. The main stage floats on the river and the audience use one of the grandstands.

🙂 Funky and Fabulous!

After the excitement of Wimbledon and the Henley Regatta, the Henley Festival provides another fantastic opportunity to enjoy the Arts and famous, talented musicians performing on the Floating Stage. It is an opportunity to dress up and enjoy the ambiance of lights twinkling on the Thames. The Henley Festival has a Black Tie dress code. Guests are encouraged to get dressed up to the nines – think dinner jackets and bow ties, long or short evening wear, sequins and sparkle! The main stage floats on the river and the audience use one of the grandstands. Each evening it normally features a light classical music concert, with jazz later in the evening. There are other smaller stages, art exhibits, roving performers, outdoor restaurants, etc. The festival is a truly unique event. It embraces a vibrant programme from pop to world music, classical to jazz where art and gastronomy share equal billing with music. The car park opens at 4pm, Festival gates open at 5pm. Wristbands will be given out at the Festival gates upon presentation of a valid ticket.

Many people choose to picnic in the park but there are several dining options available. Many people take advantage of the river setting and hire boats and enjoy the entertainment from the water!

2009: Dame Kiri Te Kanawa