A vibrant arts festival featuring free music, dance and performances will take place at Fort Brockhurst, Gosport from 2-5 July, involving over 700 local schoolchildren in celebrating the town’s heritage and culture.
Festival at The Fort returns to the historic Fort Brockhurst setting on Gosport’s outskirts, offering four days of complimentary entertainment suitable for all ages and musical tastes.
The programme caters to both experienced festival-goers and newcomers alike. Key attractions include a free youth orchestra performance where visitors can bring their own picnics, plus a comprehensive family day featuring samba band workshops, performances by emerging local musicians, and entertainment from Farm Yard Circus, fresh from their Glastonbury appearance.
This marks another milestone for the Gosport Cultural Education Project, a collaborative venture between The Grange Festival Learning and Hampshire Music Education Hub. The Hampshire Music Education Hub operates under Hampshire County Council’s Hampshire Music Service leadership, bringing together various partners committed to providing musical experiences for young people throughout the county.
Councillor Steve Forster, Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, commented: “The Gosport Cultural Education Project represents an inspirational initiative that has, since its 2023 launch, enabled over 2,000 young people to express themselves whilst celebrating their local communities through music and arts. I’m thrilled to witness Festival at the Fort’s return with another compelling events programme, ensuring culture and heritage remains accessible across all age groups.”
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Susan Hamilton, Director of Learning at The Grange Festival, added: “The Gosport Cultural Education Project stands as an essential initiative celebrating Gosport’s rich heritage and dynamic culture. Collaborating with Hampshire Music Education Hub to bring together young people, educators, and the broader community through inspiring cross-arts experiences that ignite creativity, boost confidence, and enhance local pride has been truly rewarding.”
Complete programme details:
WEDNESDAY 2 JULY
RHYTHM & MARCH – SOLD OUT
An evening showcasing His Majesty’s Royal Marines Collingwood band, followed by local secondary school dance and music students joining the performance on the parade ground.
THURSDAY 3 JULY
YOUTH PROMS – 6PM TO 9:30PM (Doors 5.30pm), FREE
Gosport and Fareham Youth Orchestra performance. Visitors welcome to bring picnics, blankets or portable chairs for the musical evening.
Tickets available online.
SATURDAY 5 JULY
FAMILY FUN DAY – FROM MIDDAY, FREE
Activities including circus skills, Samba workshops and craft sessions.
FARMYARD CIRCUS – 1PM, FREE
Features spectacular acrobatics and juggling with hay bales, accompanied by live music telling an uplifting story about overcoming differences.
MUSIC AT THE FORT – 3PM TO LATE, FREE
Local emerging bands and musicians perform on the main stage with Quay West Studios. Food and beverages available for purchase.
