The Tales of the River Festival proved to be a huge success this weekend, bringing together residents, families, and community groups for a day of fun, activities and celebration.
Held in Oxhey Park, the festival was a chance to thank the community for their support of the Tales of the River project over the past three years and to celebrate everything it has achieved. The day showcased the very best of Watford’s community spirit, with something for everyone to enjoy.
The festival was made possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the support of Groundwork East, project partners who helped organise the event. Their contribution, along with the dedication of local volunteers, community groups, and council officers, ensured everything ran smoothly and successfully.
Throughout the day, visitors were treated to a wide range of stalls and attractions, including Veolia, Friends of the Earth, Green Gym, Herts Health Walks, Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, Drop Bar Bikes, Watford Community Family Fun Day, Ace Face Painting (offering free face painting all day), Communities 1st and Beautifully with Kaia, selling handmade jewellery. National Lottery players were also treated to a free ice cream from Tonino’s!
The Museum of Watford was a popular attraction on the day, bringing their Dig to Discover activity for families to enjoy. Children were able to take part in a free, hands-on archaeology experience, uncovering hidden “artefacts” and learning more about the history beneath our feet. The activity proved a big hit with young explorers and will return as part of the council’s Big Beach event over the summer, giving even more families the chance to enjoy this fun and educational experience.
Residents also enjoyed a captivating poetry performance from local poet Saher and an energetic dance display by New Connections, both of which drew big applause from the crowd. The festival ended on a high with an uplifting set from a local band ‘Tied to Your Soul’, creating a fantastic atmosphere and bringing the day’s celebrations to a perfect close.
Councillor Ian Stotesbury, Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and Transport said: “This event was a true celebration of our community, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible volunteers, stall holders, and council officers who gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm to make it such a success.
“I would also like to give a huge thank you to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for providing the funding, and to Groundwork East and the council officers for their hard work and support in helping bring the day together.”
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Whilst our Tales of the River project is coming to an end, we still have two ‘Ask Me Anything’ webinars that are free for everyone to attend on the 3 and 8 September.
“I want to thank all the residents who have engaged with the project over the last three years, your support has been incredible. I hope you join us for these final events as we celebrate and share the story of our much-loved River Colne.”
