Get ready for a week of creativity, discovery and community spirit as Buckingham Town Council’s Fringe Week 2026 takes place from Monday 20th July to Sunday 26th July. This year’s Fringe promises to be one of the most exciting yet, celebrating the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough with a vibrant programme inspired by nature and wildlife.
Packed with free events, family activities, live performances and hands-on experiences, Fringe Week offers something for everyone to enjoy.
A week full of nature-inspired experiences:
The festivities begin on Monday 20th July with a relaxed Picnic at Berties’ Walk (6:00pm – 8:30pm), where visitors can meet friendly volunteers at the community orchard and hear from the Chair of Midshires Orchard. The fun Bourton Park Nature Trail also launches, running for three weeks and inviting families to hunt for hidden animals throughout the Park.
On Tuesday 21st July, creativity takes centre stage with free nature-inspired crafts at the historic Chantry Chapel (10:30am – 12 noon). In the evening, enjoy a lively performance from the Oxford Fiddle Group, bringing an energetic mix of traditional tunes.
Midweek highlights on Wednesday 22nd July include a free Nature Makers eco-friendly craft session in the historic Cattle Pens (11:30am–2:30pm), followed by a chance to learn the art of rustic floral design with Howes the Florist at 4pm – a relaxed ‘pay what you can’ experience.
Thursday promises to be a standout day – alongside more crafts at the Chantry Chapel, the hugely popular Bugfest arrives at Lace Hill Community Centre (11:00am – 4:00pm). Visitors can get up close with fascinating creatures including giant snails, stick insects, hissing cockroaches and desert scorpions – a truly unforgettable experience for all ages, and completely free. Later that evening, test your knowledge at the Nature-Themed Quiz Night at the Grand Junction (7:00pm), with entry just £2 per person.
On Friday 24th July, families can enjoy Art in the Market (1:00pm – 4:00pm) in the Cattle Pens, offering a fun and creative afternoon for all ages. Film enthusiasts won’t want to miss the People’s Emergency Briefing screening at The Film Place at 7:30pm.
The weekend brings even more to explore. On Saturday 25th July, visit Buckingham Flower Farm for a pick-your-own flower experience, complete with a free gnome trail and lawn games. Visitors can also support the ‘100 Trees for 100 Years’ initiative, helping to create the Attenborough Hedge in honour of the legendary naturalist. Meanwhile, Bite Club at Embleton Way (4:00pm – 9:00pm) will serve up a vibrant mix of international street food alongside live music.
Fringe Week concludes on Sunday 26th July with the Lace Hill Family Fun Day, featuring free games, a bouncy castle, DJ entertainment, stalls and of course, delicious ice cream.
For more information and tickets for selected events, visit the Town Council website or the Tourist Information Centre.
Cllr. Robin Stuchbury, Chair of the Town Centre and Events Committee, said:
This year the Town Centre and Events Committee agreed to mark the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough. Officers and community members, on behalf of the Committee, have worked on a programme of events to reflect and include aspects related to nature and wildlife which has been a large part of Mr. Attenborough’s life. With community partners, we have put together a schedule of events throughout the week, many of which will be free to attend, and we look forward to seeing Buckingham and North Buckinghamshire residents throughout the week.
