This annual festival offers a programme of popular entertainment and high quality arts events for all audiences in various venues around Rayleigh.

The first day of the week-long event is Saturday 17th September (12 noon to 4pm) and will host a range of activities and events at the Mill Arts & Events Centre, Rayleigh Windmill Museum, Rayleigh High Street, Holy Trinity Church and Rayleigh Library.

One of the main events takes place on the first Saturday when the Festival welcomes the creators of children’s TV sensation Rastamouse, Genevieve Webster and Michael De Souza to the Festival. Look out as well for children’s theatre from Ripstop, and heritage, history, comedy and art workshops.

Out on the High Street, look out for Bob's Barbershop Quartet, contemporary African dance by Ayigafrik and an aerial trapeze show called The Mermaiden.

Throughout the week (Sunday 18th - Saturday 23rd September) other events will take place around the town. Highlights include a music concert from vocal harmony group The Swinging Belles and a talk on antiques by Mark Stacey. Essex Storytelling Laureate Mike Dodsworth tells some well loved tales and Sundown Arts run an Open Mic event featuring local writers and poets.

The full Festival Guide is available at www.rochford.gov.uk/artsfestival

The Festival is produced by Rochford District Council and sponsored by Virgin Active.