Olney Riverfest returns this July with comedy, duck race, live music, raft race and new paddleboard event

One of Olney’s most popular annual summer events is set to return this July, with organisers looking forward to another fantastic weekend of entertainment and community celebrations.

Taking place across the weekend of Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July, Olney Riverfest 2026 will bring together live entertainment, family activities, races on the River Great Ouse, food, music and community celebrations.

The weekend begins on Saturday afternoon with family entertainment inside the Riverfest marquee. From 4pm, children can enjoy a live show from comedy ventriloquist and magician David Tomkins, joined by a cast of characters including the much-loved Cheeky Dog.

Many local residents will remember Cheeky Dog from Olney’s Floral Fiesta days, making the appearance a nostalgic moment for adults as well as a chance for younger audiences to experience the fun for the first time.

Saturday evening sees the return of the hugely popular comedy night hosted by “Its Just Jokes Comedy”. Starting at 7.30pm, the event follows last year’s successful sell-out show at Riverfest and previous performances at the Big Olney Food Festival. Food and bar facilities will be available throughout the evening.

Sunday’s events move onto the water, beginning at midday with the traditional Duck Race organised by the 1st Olney Scouts. Ducks will race from the weir in Emberton Park to the A509 bridge, with tickets available from the Scouts’ Market Place stall during the weekend and on the day itself, also by the weir.

The raft race will then see teams tackle the two-kilometre course along the River Great Ouse towards the Bathing Steps at the Recreation Ground.

New for 2026 is the introduction of a Paddleboard Race, adding another competitive element to the packed programme of river activities.

Entries are now open for both the Raft Race and the new Paddleboard Race, with organisers encouraging teams, businesses, friends and community groups to get involved.

In keeping with Riverfest tradition, rafts must be homemade using waste or reclaimed materials such as planking, barrels and tyre inner tubes. Commercial boat hulls and professionally made paddles are not permitted, with organisers keen to preserve the creative and community spirit of the event. 

Full entry details, rules and disclaimer forms can be found at https://theolneygroup.org/raft-race-rules-and-disclaimer-form/

Away from the water, the Riverfest Field on East Street will host a variety of attractions throughout Sunday, including food vendors, bars, charity and craft stalls, children’s rides and live music in the marquee until 5pm.

Organisers say around 15 food and craft stalls are already booked for the weekend so far, including the popular Cattle Truck Mobile Bar and BBQ Grill, which will be attending on both Saturday and Sunday.

Live music throughout Sunday will feature a mix of local performers and community groups, including The Olney Hearts Club Band, Sandy Ukelele Group, The PommyGranites, Natalie Stevenson and The Recollections, helping create a lively festival atmosphere across the afternoon.

Businesses, charities and stallholders interested in taking part can apply for a stall space via the Riverfest website at https://theolneygroup.org/riverfest-sunday-raft-race-2026/

Organisers say the event continues to grow each year and remains focused on bringing the community together while supporting local groups and organisations.

For full event details, visit: theolneygroup.org

Riverfest 2026 is proudly sponsored by Jarden Vets - Olney's Independent, Compassionate Veterinary Practice.