events & festivals

We often feel festive in St Albans

Residents' First Weekend (Jan/Feb)

An annual event since 2003, usually at the end of January. During the weekend, local attractions provide free entry, competitions and special offers for residents of St Albans. This year's one will be held on 28 and 29 January 2012. Find out more and download details.

St Albans Festival (June)

The annual St Albans Festival is a two week celebration of art, culture and heritage across the district. The last one ran from Sat 18 June to Sun 3 July 2011. It included a free, multi-art, launch day in Verulamium Park on 18 June, the St Albans Pilgrimage, Larks in the Parks, Folk at the Festival and the Festival of Life. Download brochure (pdf).

International Organ Festival (July)

Founded in 1963, this prestigious event occurs every two years. The 26th IOF took place from 7 to 16 July 2011. Musicians from all over the world performed in concerts and competitions using organs in St Albans Cathedral, St Saviour's Church and St Peter's Church. See www.organfestival.com.

Heritage Open Days (Sept)

Established in 1994, Heritage Open Days celebrate England's architecture and culture by allowing access to interesting properties that are usually closed to the public or charge admission. This year's event took place from 8 to 11 September. Read about last year's event.

Open Studios (Sept/Oct)

A creative annual event organised by Hertfordshire Visual Arts Forum (HVAF) when local artists and craftspeople welcome visitors into their homes and studios. Entry to venues is free. This is a great opportunity to meet artists and enjoy special exhibitions. This year's event ran from 10 September to 2 October 2011.

St Albans Beer Festival (Sept/Oct)

Organised by CAMRA - The Campaign for Real Ale - this annual beer festival is the biggest in Hertfordshire. Over 300 real ales, foreign beers and ciders available with games, competitions and live music. This year's event took place from 28 September to 1 October 2011.

Food and Drink Festival (Oct)

The fourth annual St Albans Food and Drink Festival ran from 28 September to 9 October, starting with the Beer Festival. The fifth Food and Drink Festival will take place from 26 September to 7 October 2012.

St Albans Firework Displays (Nov)

This year's annual displays took place on Sat 5 November 2011 in Verulamium Park and Sun 6 November 2011 at Butterfly World.

Christmas Lights Switch-On Events (Nov)

An afternoon and early evening spectacular of pantomime stars, street entertainers and family fun on Sunday 20 November marks the start of Christmas shopping in St Albans. Find out more.

If you would like an annual event or festival to be listed here, please tell us about it.