Get your dancing shoes on and head down to Borough Gardens in Dorchester this Bank Holiday Monday, 31 August, for the return of the ever-popular Anonymous Festival, running from 11am to 5pm.
Now in its 16th year, the free, family-friendly festival promises a packed day of entertainment, activities and live music for all ages. And the best part? Not only is entry completely free, but every activity is free too.
There will be plenty to keep children, young people and families entertained, from craft activities and circus skills to bouncy castles and bungee trampolines. Visitors can test their staying power on an inflatable surfboard, have their faces painted with glitter or capture a memorable picture in a vintage horsebox. There is even the chance to learn how to create a realistic special-effects wound.
New for this year is the Games Court, located on the tennis courts, where visitors can while away the afternoon with crazy golf, skittles, cornhole and much more.
Music will be at the heart of the festival, with two stages providing entertainment throughout the day and showcasing some of Dorchester’s most talented young performers. The much-loved Vinyl Van will also be spinning discs in the chill-out corner, while a couple of walkabout acts will bring entertainment directly to festival-goers.
There will be plenty of affordable food to enjoy, including burgers, sausages and chips, Nepalese dumplings, freshly cooked Thai dishes, authentic falafels and delicious pizza from Basilico. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be popcorn, candy floss and ice cream, as well as bubble tea, fruit and milk drinks with boba. The park kiosk will also be open for light snacks and refreshments.
Event organiser Emma Scott, from Dorchester Town Council, said: “A special shout out must go out to our funders this year, including Dorchester Town Council, Dorset Council, Dorchester Youth Council, Poundbury Community Trust, the Rotary Club of Dorchester Casterbridge, Magna Housing and the Dorchester Round Table.
“The event is also supported by local company Jurassic Scaffolding, who are kindly providing the staging this year, and our partners Antix Music, who are bringing the PA. We’re really pleased to have raised the money so that we can offer all the activities for free and support our local families and community.”
Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket or deckchair, settle in and make a day of it.
For more information, visit the Anonymous Festival Facebook page or Instagram, where you can find the latest event information and details of the fantastic music acts appearing throughout the day.
