Last weekend saw the Bedford River Festival 2018, celebrating the event’s 40th anniversary with live music, stalls, funfair, sports, dance, history and lots to do both on and off the water.
Early estimates indicate that well over 300,000 visitors came to Bedford’s beautiful riverside, with people travelling from near and far to enjoy this fantastic event.
Mayor Dave Hodgson said “My thanks and congratulations go to all the staff, volunteers, partners and organisations who were part of the huge effort that goes into putting this event together, and ensuring that it was a safe and enjoyable weekend.
“It was fantastic to see so many thousands of people both enjoying and contributing to the unique atmosphere of the River Festival, which once again showcased the very best of Bedford. Thanks to the hard work and energy of so many individuals and groups, I believe we gave the River Festival the 40th Anniversary celebration it deserved.”
Highlights from the weekend included the raft and dragonboat races; boat and street parades; paddleboard racing; demonstrations at the World War One Heritage Village; displays on the river; and of course the show and performances across the event’s six stages.
