THE popular Kidderminster Arts Festival is set to return to the district with a bang this summer, promising a feast of entertainment for the whole family.

Kidderminster Arts Festival will run in the town for two weeks, between August 12, and August 27.

The line-up so far includes street theatre, concerts at Kidderminster Town Hall, a tea dance, a new mural in the Mill Street subway and an outdoor cinema event. More acts are to be announced soon.

The rich history and heritage of Kidderminster’s carpet industry will be celebrated during this year’s festival, with an aerial installation, woven panels and brightly coloured flagging in Vicar Street reflecting the theme of patterns.

With more than £25,000 Arts Council Funding - this year’s festival promises to be bigger, better and even more diverse than ever.

Kay Higman, Wyre Forest District Council’s cultural services and marketing manager, said: “The funding allows the arts festival to expand its programming and gives a fantastic opportunity for the town to showcase its creative flare.

“We are excited to work with many local partners to bring the events to life, including Kidderminster Town Council, North Worcestershire Economic Development and Regeneration, Friends of St George’s Park, Live and Local, the Museum of Carpet and Community Broadcast Channels.”

Street theatre will be performed every Saturday during the festival. On August 12, the theme will be ‘Young at Heart’ while on August 19, the theme will be ‘Now and Then’.

On the final Saturday, August 26, the theme will be ‘Inclusivity’ and events will involve artists who have a disability and inclusive professional and amateur arts companies who will celebrate our similarities and differences.

Residents only have a few days left to vote for their favourite three films, which be shown outdoors in Brinton Park on Sunday, August 27. Voting will close at 12 noon on Friday (August 28). To cast your vote, visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/things-to-see-do-and-visit/events/outdoor-cinema-event.

For more information about this year’s Kidderminster Arts Festival and for updates about new acts which will be announced soon, visit kidderminsterartsfestival.org.uk.