Paintbrushes at the Ready – Wetherby’s Festival Fun Kicks Off THIS Sunday!

Yes, we know it’s only July. And yes, your holiday tan hasn’t even had a proper chance to settle in. But Wetherby’s getting a head start on the October Festival – and it all begins this Sunday, 13th July, down by the river.

This year's warm-up event invites local artists (and curious onlookers) to King George’s Fields, nestled beside the River Wharfe, for a relaxed day of outdoor painting, mingling, and possibly a cheeky ice cream or two. Whether you're wielding a paintbrush or simply wandering around enjoying the view, you're very welcome. No need to be the next Monet - enthusiasm is just as welcome as talent.

Artists will be creating on-site from 9:30am, with a local artist/gallery swinging by between 1:30pm and 2:30pm to scout the scene and shortlist their favourite pieces. Those selected will be invited to display their work during the first weekend of the Wetherby Festival, at the Town Hall on 4th and 5th October. One final winner will bag themselves a tidy £50 prize. Not bad for a Sunday stroll and a splash of colour.

If you fancy entering, all the details are neatly tucked away on the Wetherby Festival website (hint hint). And don’t worry - if you’re more of a people-watcher than a painter, there’s plenty to enjoy just by being there. Plus, the forecast is looking hot and dry, so don’t forget sun cream and a hat.

Find out more here

While you’re online checking the art comp info, why not have a nosey at the Comedy Poem Competition too? It’s open now, it’s fun, and it’s a great excuse to rhyme something with ‘Wetherby’.

Oh - and speaking of October - tickets for the full Wetherby Festival (3rd–11th October) are already on sale. So if you love music, comedy, theatre, and all things community, go grab yours now before they’re all snapped up - find out more here.