A yearly gathering combining music, comedy, and an unconventional display featuring a member of the clergy navigating through custard is preparing to host its eleventh edition in succession.
The Dorchester event located in Dorchester-on-Thames will utilise the grounds of Dorchester Abbey for a ten-year stretch commencing May 1.
This edition includes 61 individual performances and will continue raising funds for Be Free Young Carers and Dorchester Abbey.
Steph Forman, acting as festival director, explained that the programme offers something for all tastes, whether visitors are after opera, jazz, stand-up routines, fine art exhibitions, culinary experiences, retail opportunities, a dog display, a charity run, a vicar moving through trifle, or a thrilling climb down a 100-foot structure.
Since its inception in 2005, this biennial festival has provided £350,000 to the abbey and related charitable causes.
The 2026 gathering will divide its proceeds equally between the abbey and Be Free Young Carers, a group supporting children and teenagers across Oxfordshire who look after family members.
Sabiene North, chief executive of Be Free Young Carers, noted that Young Carers often exist in the shadows without acknowledgment, and Dorchester Festival provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to celebrate the outstanding achievements of these remarkable young people and to obtain vital resources that will benefit those requiring support throughout Oxfordshire. She expressed excitement about being part of this wonderful event.
Throughout the festival, Be Free Young Carers will manage a café and arrange activities including yoga for young people and participation in a shared art initiative.
The 2026 lineup includes the Kings Singers, Jay Rayner, John Rutter, Steve Knightley, and Liza Pulman.
Visitors can also assist the charitable groups through a silent auction featuring 41 lots.
These include an overnight stay at The Randolph, tickets to Truck Festival, a meal served at a private residence, garden maintenance services, a gourmet dinner, and access to finals day at The Henley Royal Regatta.
The event kicks off on Saturday, May 2, with local MP Freddie van Mierlo formally beginning proceedings alongside Ms North before scaling down the abbey’s 100-foot tower using ropes.
He will be joined by county official Gavin McLauchlan along with young carers and other supporters.
Ms Forman noted that the 300 helpers are set to greet visitors warmly, providing drinks such as tea and 3,000 portions of cake, alongside grilled food.
She added that the organisation encourages people to support local young carers by buying tickets, joining the online auction, or sponsoring a brave individual completing the tower descent.
The event draws more than 5,000 visitors and stands as one of Oxfordshire’s largest festivals.
Tickets and the complete timetable are available at dorchesterfestival.com.