By Professor Robert Van de Noort
In this part of the world, we are blessed with brilliant festivals.
There’s the Reading Festival of course, but let’s not forget Water Fest, Readipop, Wokingham Festival, Rewind, to name a few. The thought of those long summer days is enough to get you through another chilly February.
And the University is in on the act, again. After last year’s success, the University will host its Community Festival for a second time on May 18.
I look back on last year’s event with many great memories, when thousands of people from across Reading and Wokingham joined us on our beautiful Whiteknights campus for a day of community celebration.
The purpose of the festival is to bring together University students, colleagues, alumni and our neighbours. The day provided a platform – in every sense – for us to share with others the things we do as a University: the sport, the music, the food, and the fascinating science and research.
Perhaps more importantly, it allowed us to play host to our neighbours, giving space to perform, meet and share a taste of the activities and the groups that are the lifeblood of our community.
From music on the outdoor stage in our meadow, to workshops in painting, yoga, music, as well as sports taster sessions and demonstrations, there was something for everyone. I heard reports that the rap workshops, held in the oak-panelled rooms of Park House, were a particular joy.
It was great to see so many people engaging with our research exhibitions and talks, giving them the opportunity to learn more about the study and research we do at Reading. I personally learnt a lot about protecting bees and wildlife, discovered some new facts about the cultures of the past, and it was great to chat to some of our world-class climate scientists. Hopefully, the hands-on activities and children’s talks inspired some youngsters to think about how they want to help shape the future – not just for themselves, but for us all.
With fond memories of this wonderful day in mind, I am happy to say that the Community Festival will be back again on Saturday 18 May. We’ve taken on board some useful feedback and are confident it will go down even better in 2024.
We will be sharing more details about the line-up and activities in the run-up, but for now, hold the date. Meanwhile, we would love to hear from community groups and organisations from all parts of our vibrant community, who might be interested in performing or holding workshops. Please get in touch with us by Monday 12 February.
You can find the online form on the University website, or email communityfestival@reading.ac.uk and we can send you a link.
If we don’t see you before then, see you in May.
Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vice-chancellor of the University of Reading
