The Jesmond Community Festival marked a 50-year milestone on Saturday (2 May) with the launch of this year’s edition. While the event began in 1976 ago as a dedicated music festival – including open-air stage in Jesmond Dene – this year’s month-long celebration highlights how far it has evolved, offering a variety of more than 80 events that span heritage walks, snail races, coffee-tasting, family sports and community workshops.

The festival, which runs until 31 May, opened at Holy Trinity Church with a look back at the event’s transition from a niche music gathering into a broad showcase of local life. Dave Cross, chair of the Jesmond Community Forum, reminisced about the very first festival, then known as JesFest.

“There was lots of live music in pubs and bars in Jesmond, and was terrific if you liked jazz!” Cross said. “I’m delighted that now the festival is a true reflection and celebration of the diversity of our community and the activities that the people of Jesmond organise for the community.”

He noted that while the 1976 debut was financially supported by Newcastle City Council, local authorities no longer have the resources for such assistance and he praised the “enthusiasm and passion” of local volunteers who make the festival happen each year.

Sarah Peters, councillor for South Jesmond, praised the breadth of the 2026 programme. “It’s such an exciting celebration of all the things that are fantastic about Jesmond,” Peters said. “I’m so pleased to see that there’s something for everyone in the programme. It really shows the best of what our community can be.”

A printed programme of all events ia available at Jesmond Library or can be viewed online at www.jesmondcommunityfestival.co.uk. Most events are free or low-cost, with many easily accessible via bus or Metro, and include:

• Heritage and nature: The popular Guided Walks return, including a “Dawn Chorus” nature walk and a new tour titled “Discover Jesmond 1888”.
• Family and sport: Families can enjoy Snail Races in the Jesmond Community Orchard, model train rides in Exhibition Park, and the Tour de Jesmond cycle rally.
• Activities beginning with “c”: The programme featires coffee tasting at Starbucks, opportunities to try croquet, and even circle dancing.
• Music and milestones: While music remains a feature, including a performance of The Mikado by the Jesmond Choral Society, the festival also celebrates local history, such as the 125th birthday of the Jesmond Methodist Church.