Holmfirth Arts Festival kicked off its summer season with a spectacular Big Weekend, celebrating diversity and bringing a variety of live events to the community.
Despite less-than-ideal weather, Yorkshire’s hardy residents turned out in droves to enjoy the festivities. Now, the festival organizers are gearing up for a full lineup of events running through September, all inspired by the River Holme and the flow of ideas and people through the valley.
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Celebrating History and Heritage
Commemorating the Whit Monday Flood
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Whit Monday flood in Holmfirth, and the festival is commemorating this significant event with a walking and heritage tour on Saturday, July 6. History enthusiasts can explore the impacts of the flood and listen to stories from that day, offering a unique way to experience local history while enjoying the great outdoors.
Later that evening, at 7 pm, the theatre company Mikron will present a show that humorously explores the history of land access in England. While the performance doesn’t involve actual walking, audiences are encouraged to bring picnics, blankets, and chairs to enjoy this pay-as-you-decide event.
Musical Highlights
Diverse and International Sounds
On Saturday, July 27, the Dana Ali Band, supported by Little and Often, will perform at St David’s Church Hall in Holmbridge. Dana Ali, originally from Atlanta, Georgia, blends soul, jazz, blues, R&B, and funk into a mesmerizing fusion. Little and Often, a Huddersfield-based duo, have a rich background in rock ‘n’ roll, having worked with notable names like Antonio Banderas and The Osmonds.
August brings a month of inspiring live music. On Saturday, August 3, The Civic will host a double-bill of new music featuring “The River Flows (Holmfirth Song Cycle)” by the Good Earth Collective. This performance, created by songwriter Steve and artist Jan Ansell, blends history and local stories into a musical journey and audio-visual experience about Holmfirth and its river. Following this, audiences can experience “Requiem for a Fading World,” a new composition for chamber orchestra and choir that tells a fantastical post-apocalyptic tale.
On Saturday, August 17, Channel 4’s The Piano finalist Daria Golovchenko will perform an extraordinary piano concert at Holmfirth High School. Born and raised in Kherson, Ukraine, Daria relocated to the UK due to the war, settling in Holmfirth with her daughter. Her concert promises to be a highlight of the festival.
Engaging the Community
Interactive and Inclusive Events
The festival concludes August with a joyful social sing event led by the Soul Choir based in Holmfirth. This unique event invites the audience to become the performers in a relaxed, welcoming environment with no sheet music or auditions required. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to sing and wants to join a community of fellow music enthusiasts.
Wrapping Up with Comedy
Homegrown Talent Takes the Stage
The festival will wrap up in early September with a comedy event featuring Holmfirth-born Kieran Hodgson. Fresh from sold-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and Soho Theatre, and a 40-date national tour, Kieran returns to his hometown to share his experiences of living as a lapsed Yorkshireman in Scotland. Tickets for this event are selling fast, so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Full Lineup and More Information
The full lineup of events can be found on the Holmfirth Arts Festival website.
