AD – This is part of a paid partnership with Milton Keynes City Council.
Did you know that Midsummer Boulevard in Central Milton Keynes is named because it aligns with the path of the sun at the summer solstice? I was born in MK and this was news to me until last year! Fun facts about Milton Keynes aside, Midsummer Boulevard is set to become festival central on Sunday 23rd June to mark the Summer Solstice! In this blog post, I’ll be sharing the highlights as well as telling you all about the street food which has been curated by yours truly…
Milton Keynes City Council is holding the city’s first ever, family-friendly Midsummer Festival. It’s totally free and there is a fun-packed free programme of music, maypoles, magic and more.
Midsummer Festival Highlights
The festival will explore themes of magic, renewal and healing through a range of performances and workshops. Wild Rumpus, who produce immersive worlds that take audiences into magical and enchanting places, will transform the Boulevard into an inspiring space celebrating the natural world.
I am particularly excited for Ghost Caribou by Thingumajig Theatre where giant illuminated mystical creatures will roam with a wild herdsperson. Folk Dance Remixed’s performance is also set to be amazing, with a hip-hop-inspired mix of maypole, clogging, breakdance and more.
Three MK-based artists will take over Porte Cocheres for improvised music and dance in response to sunlight and shadow; as a nest for large magpie puppets roaming the site; and for an immersive artwork which tracks the movement of the sun.
A very special ‘fire-jumping’ competition (traditionally those who make it across will enjoy good health throughout the year) where our ‘fire pit’ features papier mache logs and hand-painted flames built by the audience using recycled materials.
A music tent with contemporary folk acts Stick in the Wheel, Benedict Drew and Arianne Churchman, summer tunes, and – as the sun goes down – experimental music before an atmospheric spoken word performance.
As well as enjoying the performances, there are workshops to get involved in too. You will be able to make your own suncatcher, design your own tarot card and taste the delights of locally foraged Solst-iced Drinks in the wellness workshop tent.
What can I eat at Midsummer Festival?
I am proud to have supported Milton Keynes City Council with this event by curating the street food offering featuring some of MK’s favourite vendors. I hope you like it – There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Rub BBQ will be serving up tasty smoked meats like wings and burgers like the Cheeky Chick with 6 hours maple wood smoked pulled herby chicken thighs and pickled slaw…. STOP, I am drooling.
One of my favourite pizza vans, Fold Me Close, is bringing delicious wood-fired pizzas with a fun twist!
Transport yourself to Malaysia with Lime Face who will be serving bao buns and rice boxes.
And last but not least, we have Bokkie who will be serving South African dishes with a fresh, modern twist. I absolutely love the food from Bokkie, it’s so comforting!
If you have room for dessert, Willen Ice Cream Company, Chouxly Scrumptious, and JW Events Cart will be ready with ice cream, chouxys, sweets and popcorn. From 10am – 6pm.
And for something to drink, Papi’s Cocktails will be serving their amazing mocktails and cocktails along with From The Hatch for beers, spirits and wines. Milk & Beans Coffee will be there during the day for your caffeine fix!
Planning on heading down?
Will you be celebrating the summer solstice at the Midsummer Festival? Find a festival map below to help you navigate the site.
Midsummer Festival takes place from 10am – 10:30pm on Midsummer Boulevard (Opposite MK Gallery) on Sunday 23rd June. Entry is FREE! For the full programme and timings, visit the Milton Keynes Council website. Make sure you are following Culture Milton Keynes on Instagram @culturemiltonkeynes and Facebook for updates.
DISCLAIMER: This post is part of a paid content campaign. Click here for my full disclosure policy.
