The countdown is on for one of Calne’s biggest annual celebrations, as the 51st Calne Music and Arts Festival (CMAF) prepares to return this autumn.
Running from 3rd to 12th October, the ten-day festival promises a vibrant programme of music, art, and community events, with many activities taking place at Marden House - home to the festival’s art exhibition throughout.
Founded in 1974, CMAF has grown into a major cultural highlight for the town, showcasing exceptional talent while engaging people of all ages from Calne and surrounding villages. The festival is entirely volunteer-run and supported by local sponsors.
The art exhibition is always a centrepiece, featuring hundreds of works by artists ranging from beginners to internationally recognised names. Alongside this, music lovers can enjoy a diverse programme that includes everything from opera and piano recitals to stand-up comedy, school performances, and a special evening of folk music on Saturday 4th October.
That evening will see Courting Ghosts, an Indie Americana band, joined by traditional performers Georgia Browne (fiddle) and Tom Payne (voice and piano), as well as the Wiltshire-based a cappella folk quartet Feast of Fools.
The ever-popular Free Family Day returns on Saturday 7th October at Marden House, sponsored by The Hills Group Ltd. Running from 11am–4pm, the event will include a 360-degree immersive Theatre Dome, performances from Calne Samba Band, Clare’s Circus, workshops, an art treasure hunt, and street entertainment, plus refreshments and light lunches available throughout the day.
Organisers say this year’s festival offers “something for everyone,” with a full programme of events now available online.
The Festival wine bar at Marden House will be open before and during evening events, while coffee and cakes will be served at weekday concerts.
For the full programme and tickets, visit: www.cmaf.org.uk/programme
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