Stafford and its surrounding towns come alive in Summer 2025 with an exciting mix of festivals, markets, family fun days, and theatrical performances. From historic castle re-enactments to open-air concerts and charming local fairs, there's something for everyone.

Below is a comprehensive guide to one-off and recurring events (free and ticketed) from June 1 onwards, plus top places to visit and a special spotlight on summer theatre. Get ready to make the most of Stafford this summer!

Festivals & Special Events

Stone Carnival Week 2025 – May 31–June 8, 2025 (events through early June) – Various locations in Stone – Free & Ticketed.

This annual festival in Stone (8 miles from Stafford) packs a week of community events, culminating in a colorful Carnival Parade on June 7. The week’s highlights include family sports tournaments, a floating canal market, live music and DJ sets at local pubs, a tractor rally through the countryside, and a Carnival Parade through Stone’s streets with floats and Westbridge Park hosts carnival amusements, food stalls, and arena entertainment like dance performances and tug-of-war. The finale on June 8 features a fun “Steeplechase & Dog Derby” race and pet

Website: visit stonecarnival.org for full program and details.

Staffordshire Police Open Day – June 14, 2025 (11am–4pm) – Staffordshire County Showground – Free.

Ever wondered what it's like behind the scenes of the police service? The Staffordshire Police Open Day invites families to the county showground for an interactive day of.

Visitors can explore police vehicles, watch dog handling and forensic demos, meet officers (and mascot police pups), and learn about community safety in a fun environment. It’s a great opportunity for kids to engage with emergency services – and maybe even sit in a police car! Entry and parking are free.

Official Info: Hosted by Staffordshire Police – see updates via their social media or Staffordshire Police website.

Party in the Park 2025 – July 13, 2025 (12pm–4pm) – Victoria Park, Stafford – Free.

A summer tradition, Party in the Park transforms Stafford’s Victoria Park into a carnival-style fair for all age.

Enjoy family fairground rides, games, stalls, and plenty of food and drink vendors in the riverside park. Don’t miss the Annual Duck Race on the River Sow – a quirky race of rubber ducks that’s a highlight of the afternoonstaffordbc.gov.uk. Live entertainment and children’s activities run throughout the day courtesy of Freedom Leisure and Historic Stafford teams. Pack a picnic or grab a bite on-site, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

More Info: See Stafford Borough Council or Party in the Park event by Freedom Leisure - the organiser of the event .

Teddy Bear’s Picnic – July 13, 2025 (11am–4pm) – Izaak Walton’s Cottage, near Stone – Free (Parking £3)

Families with little ones will love this enchanting day out at the historic thatched cottage of writer Izaak Walton. Bring your picnic and favourite teddy bear to relax in the cottage gardens, where entertainers host magic shows, storytelling sessions, a teddy bear hunt, face painting, pony rides, children’s craft workshops, and stalls. Even Pudsey Bear makes a guest appearance for hugs and photos!

Most activities are free; a small parking fee applies. This charming event, organised by Historic Stafford, creates a magical day especially for younger visitors.

More information can be found on the official event page on Historic Stafford, who hosts the event.

Reunion Classic Car Show – July 13, 2025 (10am–4pm) – Staffordshire County Showground – £ (Ticketed)

Car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Reunion Car Show, which brings hundreds of classic and vintage vehicles to the Stafford showgroundstaffscountyshowground.co.uk. Admire gleaming classic cars, motorcycles, trucks, and custom builds on display. There will be autojumble stalls, food vendors, and family entertainment throughout the day. Whether you’re into British roadsters, American muscle cars or rare retro models, this show is a trip down memory lane. It’s a great day out for petrolheads and families alike (kids often enjoy the novelty vehicles on display).

Info & Tickets: See Staffordshire County Showground “What’s On” for July 13.

Hound Championship Dog Show – July 19–20, 2025 – Staffordshire County Showground – £ (Spectators usually pay small fee)

One of the UK’s major dog shows comes to Stafford this July.

The Hound Championship Show brings pedigree hound breeds (from Beagles and Dachshunds to Afghan Hounds) for two days of competitions and judging. Spectators can walk around the rings to watch the judging of various classes and see beautifully groomed dogs up close.

Meet breeders, learn about different hound breeds, and browse trade stands selling pet goods. It’s an all-weather event (held in large halls if needed) and a must for dog lovers.

Info: Organised by the Hound Association – details via Staffordshire County Showground events listing.

“The Vikings Are Coming!” Re-Enactment – August 2–3, 2025 (10am–4pm) – Stafford Castle – £ (Parking £5, activities £0–£5)

Prepare for a Viking invasion at Stafford Castle! For one weekend, the castle grounds turn into an early medieval encampment as Y Ddraig re-enactment society brings history to life.

Wander an authentic living history village populated by Viking warriors, craftspeople and storytellers. You can watch thrilling combat displays with clashing swords and shields, try your hand at archery or spear-throwing (“Have-a-go Javelin”), see demonstrations of weaving, cooking, weapon forging, and even play Viking games.

Both days feature a dramatic mock battle in the afternoon where rival clans skirmish for the crowds. Kids can join special “Kiddie-Vike” activities and even build their own Viking shield in a themed workshop. It’s an interactive, family-friendly journey into the Dark Ages, set against the backdrop of the castle.

More Info: Historic Stafford – Viking Re-Enactment page or the Stoke Vikings.

Recurring Markets & Food Events

Stafford Farmers’ Market – Second Saturday of each month (June 14, July 12, Aug 9, 2025), 9am–3pm – Stafford Market Square – Free Entry

Experience the best of local produce and artisan goods at this popular monthly farmers’ marketstaffordbc.gov.ukstaffordbc.gov.uk. Dozens of stalls line Stafford’s Market Square offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, cheeses, baked goods, meats, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up farmhouse breads, organic honey, locally brewed ales, and unique gifts. Street food vendors often join in, so you can grab a gourmet sausage roll or coffee as you browse. The market has a lively atmosphere and showcases the talent of regional farmers and makers – a true treat for foodies.

Info: Hosted by Stafford Borough Council – see Stafford Farmers’ Market.

Stone Farmers’ Market – First Saturday of each month (June 7, July 5, Aug 2, 2025), 9am–3pm – Stone High Street – Free Entry

Just up the road in Stone, another vibrant farmers’ market runs monthly. It features an “artisan market offering a variety of high-quality, handmade food and crafts as well as street food.”staffordbc.gov.uk. Stroll through stalls brimming with homemade chutneys, freshly baked pies, local cheeses, craft gins, and artwork. The Stone market often has live music or street entertainers adding to the ambience on market day. Combine your visit with a coffee at a Stone café and enjoy the friendly, small-town feel.

Info: See Stafford Borough Council – Stone Farmers’ Market.

Stafford Food and Music Festival – First Friday of each month, Summer 2025 (June 6, July 4, Aug 1), 3:30pm–8pm – Stafford town centre (Market Square) – Free Entry

Kick off the weekend at this open-air food and live music extravaganza in the heart of Stafford. Each month, Market Square fills with street food trucks and local pop-up food stalls offering cuisines from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to international dishes and sweet treats.

Alongside the delicious food, enjoy live music performances by local bands and musicians throughout the evening. There’s often a pop-up bar for craft beers or cocktails, and sometimes free kids’ activities (like face painting or a bouncy castle) to keep the little ones happy.

The Food and Music Festival gives a real street-party vibe – perfect for a summer Friday night out with friends or family.

More info: Organised by Stafford Borough Council and partners – check Stafford Town Centre Events or Our Beautiful Borough for updates.

Stone “Feast” Street Food Market – One Friday per month (e.g. June 20, July 18, Aug 15, 2025), 5pm–9pm – Stone High Street – Free Entry

Stone’s evening food festival, known as “Feast”, brings an array of gourmet street food vendors and music into the town centre on summer Fridays. In June, Feast joins with Carnival Week for a special edition at the cricket club with free family fun.

On regular nights, you’ll find everything from smoky BBQ and curries to vegan specialities and desserts. Tables are set out so visitors can dine al fresco while enjoying live entertainment or DJ sets. It’s a relaxing way to spend a warm evening, sampling different foods and soaking in Stone’s community spirit.

Info: Follow Stone Traders Association social media for monthly dates.

Craft and Collectables Market (Stone) – Third Saturday of the month (June 21, July 19, 2025), 9am–3pm – Stone High Street – Free Entry

Treasure hunters and craft lovers will enjoy Stone’s craft & collectables fair. Dozens of stalls offer handmade crafts, vintage items, antiques, and collectables of all sorts. You might find retro homeware, antique jewellery, vinyl records, artwork, books and more. June’s edition features extra attractions as part of Carnival Week, and August is replaced by a special VJ Day commemorative street party (see below).

Even if you’re not buying, it’s fun to browse and perhaps haggle for a bargain.

Info: Hosted by Stone Town Council – see Stone events calendar.

VJ Day Summer Street Party – August 16, 2025, 12:30–4:45pm – Stone High Street – Free

Marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day, Stone is throwing a 1940s-themed summer street party. Expect live big band music, bunting and flags, veterans’ commemorations, and possibly dancers in vintage attire. The event will have a celebratory yet respectful tone, with participation from the Royal British Legion. The following day, Aug 17, features a Florence Brass Band Concert in Stonefield Park at 2pm along with a Burma Star veterans commemoration.

These events offer a meaningful way to remember history while enjoying an afternoon of music and community spirit.

Info: Stone Town Council and British Legion – local press will have details.

Staffordshire County Showground Events – Various Dates, Summer 2025 – Stafford Showground, Weston Road – Free & Ticketed

Besides the major County Show in May, the showground hosts numerous niche events over the summer. Antiques and collectors will enjoy the Toy Fairs on June 15 and August 17, where you can browse and buy model cars, dolls, trains and collectables (a haven for hobbyists).

Animal lovers can check out the Parrot Society Summer Show on July 6 to see beautiful parrots and pet birds, or the “Dreaming of Impossible” and “Limitless” youth festivals in early August that bring young people together for music, worship and activities.

There’s truly an event for every interest – from dog shows and car meets to niche hobby conventions – so keep an eye on the showground’s calendar.

Info: Visit the Staffordshire County Showground “What’s On” page for a full list of events and ticket details.

Family-Friendly Activities & Attractions

Victoria Park, Stafford – Open Daily; events year-round

This award-winning town park is a must-visit on any summer day. Victoria Park is a Green Flag award-winning park located on the banks of the River Sow in the heart of Stafford Town Centre. Recently refurbished, it features a wonderful children’s playground with a water splash pad, sandpit, and climbing equipment.

Stroll through the landscaped gardens, enjoy an ice cream from the cafe, or say hello to animals in the small aviary and pet corner. The park often hosts events like outdoor theatre, music performances, and family fun days (including the Party in the Park in July). With its riverside walkways and floral displays, Victoria Park is a tranquil oasis that’s perfect for picnics and leisurely afternoons.

Stafford Castle – Open Wed–Sun, 11am–4pm (summer hours)

Perched on a hill just outside the town, Stafford Castle offers history with a view. This Norman motte-and-bailey castle has dominated the local skyline for over 900 years.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the stone keep and the outer bailey walls, imagining medieval knights guarding the stronghold. The onsite Visitor Centre has interactive exhibits on castle history, armour to try on, and a gift shop. You can also roam a short woodland trail around the motte. Admission and parking are free (donations welcome). In summer, the castle hosts events like the Viking re-enactment and open-air theatre. Even on a quiet day, bring a camera – the panoramic views over Staffordshire from the castle hill are breathtaking. Info: Historic Stafford operates the site; guided tours are available on request.

Ancient High House – Open Tue–Sat, 10am–4pm; Free Entry.

Step back in time at England’s largest remaining timber-framed town house, right on Stafford’s Greengate Street. Built in 1595, the Ancient High House is a living piece of Elizabethan history with its striking timber beams. Inside is a museum with period-room displays and exhibits about the house’s history (it hosted King Charles I in 1642!).

Wander through Victorian rooms, a World War II-era room, and see collections of fine furniture, costumes and toys. There are hands-on activities for children, and frequent workshops (like embroidery and craft “catch-up” sessionshistoricstafford.co.uk) and small exhibitions (this summer’s feature, “Leek to Llandudno”, is on holidays in bygone times – see below). The High House is also reputedly haunted – keep an eye out for ghostly figures on the upper floors!

Info: Run by Historic Stafford (free entry); check their website for any special events.

“Leek to Llandudno” Exhibition – June 28 – Sept 27, 2025 – Ancient High House, Stafford – Free

This family-friendly summer exhibition offers a nostalgic trip to the seaside of yesteryear. “Leek to Llandudno” explores how the people of this land-locked county enjoyed holidays and leisure time, especially once rail travel opened up trips to the coast.

Through historic objects, photographs, and documents, see how 19th-century industrial workers got their first glimpse of the sea and how the British seaside holiday tradition boomed with bright lights and entertainment. The exhibit is interactive and fun, perfect for kids to learn about Victorian and 20th-century holidays. It’s open during High House museum hours, and admission is free.

More info: Hosted by Staffordshire Archives & Heritage (Historic Stafford)

Izaak Walton’s Cottage – Open Sundays 1pm–5pm in summer (plus event days)

Tucked in the hamlet of Shallowford (near Stone), this 16th-century thatched cottage was once home to Izaak Walton, author of the 1653 classic “The Compleat Angler.” Now a tiny museum, it showcases period furnishings and fishing memorabilia related to Walton.

The cottage garden is a peaceful spot for a summer afternoon – and indeed the site of the annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Families can combine a visit here with a picnic or a short nature walk. Note: the cottage is only regularly open on summer Sunday afternoons or by appointment, so plan accordingly.

Info: Maintained by Historic Stafford; entry is usually free (donations welcome).

Amerton Farm & Railway – Open Daily, 9:30am–5pm; near Stowe-by-Chartley (6 miles from Stafford)

Amerton Farm is a delightful rural attraction offering a bit of everything. “Amerton Farm is a great day out for all the family, no matter what age,” featuring an indoor play barn, outdoor adventure play area, farm animals, and craft & gift shops.

Kids can meet friendly farm animals like goats, ponies, pigs and more, or zoom around on go-karts and pedal tractors. Don’t miss a ride on the Amerton Railway, a narrow-gauge steam railway that chugs along a mile of track through the countryside.

Rides are offered on weekends and holidays, giving both children and nostalgic adults a thrill on a miniature steam train. There’s also a bakery and tearoom serving homemade treats (the aroma of fresh bread is hard to resist!).

With free admission and parking, you can spend a whole day here without breaking the bank (small fees apply for train rides and certain activities).

Website: amertonfarm.co.uk for details and the Amerton Railway timetable.

Play @ Lower Drayton Farm – Open Daily (peak season), 10am–5:30pm; near Penkridge (8 miles from Stafford)

This 750-acre working farm has been transformed into an award-winning family adventure park. It’s packed with activities: an enormous indoor play zone with slides and ninja courses, huge outdoor play areas with climbing frames and zip-lines, a petting farm with goats, rabbits, and more, tractor trailer rides, and even a maize maze in late summer.

Outdoors, kids can bounce on giant jumping pillows, whiz down racing zip wires, and get messy in the sand & water play zones. With both farm animals and adrenaline-fueled play equipment, it strikes a perfect balance for families. There are picnic spots and a café on-site. This is a ticketed attraction, but many visitors say it’s well worth a full-day visit for the amount of fun on offer.

Info: Visit Lower Drayton Farm for tickets, and to check their seasonal events like summer foam parties or pumpkin patches in autumn.

Cannock Chase AONB & Forest – Always Open (select visitor centre hours)

Just on Stafford’s doorstep lies Cannock Chase, a nature lover’s playground designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It encompasses 26 square miles of woodlands, heathlands and valleys, packed with walking trails, mountain bike routes, a Go Ape treetop adventure course, and abundant wildlife.

Head to Birches Valley Forest Centre (about 9 miles from Stafford) to access family-friendly sculpture trails, bike hire, a Gruffalo orienteering trail for kids, and the popular Go Ape facility (where you can swing among the treetops or try a forest Segway tour).

Cannock Chase is also rich in history – you can discover WWI training camp remains or the tranquil Commonwealth War Cemeteries hidden in the pines. Whether you fancy a leisurely picnic and short stroll to the Katyn Memorial or an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike ride on the famous Follow the Dog trail, Cannock Chase has it. On summer weekends, it’s common to find community events like guided nature walks, outdoor yoga sessions, or family forest school workshops here.

For more info, trail maps and event listings visit Cannock Chase Forest (Forestry England) and Cannock Chase AONB.

Summer Theatre & Performances

Stafford’s theatre scene shines in the summer with professional productions and local shows – many of them set in unique venues like the castle or intimate studio spaces. Below are the major theatre performances of Summer 2025 (excluding one-night concerts), with dates, descriptions, and ticket info.

Stafford Festival Shakespeare: Hamlet – June 24 – July 5, 2025 (nightly at 7pm, plus Sat matinees) – Stafford Castle – £ (Tickets £10–£34)

The crown jewel of Stafford’s summer events is the annual open-air Shakespeare production, held in the atmospheric grounds of Stafford Castle. This year, Stafford Shakespeare presents Hamlet, the Bard’s iconic tragedy of revenge and madness.

The production stars Benedict Shaw (known from BBC’s Boat Story and Emmerdale) as Prince Hamlet and is directed by Richard Cheshire.

Expect a compelling rendition of “to be or not to be” set against the castle ruins under the night sky. The festival has a reputation for accessible, fast-paced Shakespeare; even if you’re not a regular theatre-goer, this outdoor experience is thrilling. Seats are in a temporary grandstand – bring a cushion and dress for the weather (performances continue rain or shine).

You can pre-order refreshments or bring a picnic to enjoy before the show as the sun sets. In keeping with tradition, the show is presented in a way to suit modern audiences while preserving Shakespeare’s most famous lines. If you love drama or simply a magical summer night out, Hamlet at the castle is a must.

Tickets: Book via Stafford Gatehouse Theatre (Gatehouse Theatre produces the show)

“Dead On Cue” – July 1–3, 2025 – MET Studio, Stafford Gatehouse

For a dose of mystery and comedy, catch Dead On Cue in the Gatehouse’s MET Studio (an intimate black-box space). This original play, running for three nights, is a spoof of Agatha Christie-style whodunits. Without giving away spoilers: the setting is a theatre where a murder occurs on stage – hilarity and chaos ensue as the actors scramble to uncover the culprit during their performance. If you enjoy farcical comedies like The Play That Goes Wrong, this will be up your alley. As a studio production by local actors, it promises plenty of laughs and clever twists.

Tickets: via Stafford Gatehouse Theatre.

Stafford Players present “Home, I’m Darling” – July 22–26, 2025 (7:30pm) – MET Studio, Stafford Gatehouse

Award-winning modern comedy comes to life courtesy of Stafford’s own amateur theatre company.

Home, I’m Darling, by Laura Wade, is a sharp, witty play about a couple obsessed with 1950s nostalgia. Housewife Judy lives like it’s the 1950s – vintage decor, perfect domestic chores – but this quirky role-play starts to reveal cracks in her marriage and sanity. It’s a “lively, contemporary dark comedy” that explores the gap between nostalgic fantasy and modern reality.

The intimate MET Studio setting will make you feel like a fly on the wall in Judy’s retro-perfect kitchen. Stafford Players consistently deliver high-quality productions, and this play, which won the Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, will have you laughing and thinking in equal measure.

Tickets: Available from Stafford Gatehouse Theatre or at the door (unreserved seating).

Seussical The Musical – July 16–19, 2025 (various times) – Gatehouse Theatre Auditorium

Family musical alert! Seussical is a fantastical, colourful musical that weaves together Dr. Seuss’s beloved characters like The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and the Whos of Whoville. Performed by a talented local youth cast, this show is perfect for kids (recommended 3+).

Expect catchy songs and energetic dance numbers as Horton tries to save the tiny world of the Whos. With daytime and evening shows over four days, it’s an ideal school-holiday treat. The Gatehouse’s main house will be transformed into the whimsical world of Seuss. Come support young performers and leave with a smile on your face and perhaps a lesson about loyalty, friendship, and the power of imagination.

Tickets via Stafford Gatehouse Theatre (likely to sell fast given limited run).

“The Trail to Oregon!” – July 11, 2025 (7:30pm) – MET Studio

Fans of unconventional musical comedy should check out this one-night-only performance of The Trail to Oregon! Put on by a visiting theatre troupe, this off-Broadway cult hit is a parody musical based on the classic 1980s Oregon Trail video game. It’s irreverent, breaking the fourth wall, and even lets the audience pick the family’s name (and fate) each night. With goofy songs about fording rivers and fending off dysentery (yes, really), it’s an 18+ comedy that will have you in stitches if you appreciate silly, satirical humor.

Tickets: Gatehouse Theatre website.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – August 22–23, 2025 (Evenings + Sat matinee) – Gatehouse Theatre

Wrapping up the summer in spectacular fashion, an amateur/community theatre production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang brings the iconic flying car to the stage. This family-friendly musical (based on the 1968 film) follows inventor Caractacus Potts, his children, and Truly Scrumptious as they outwit the evil Baron of Vulgaria.

Expect show-stopping numbers like “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Hushabye Mountain,” a large cast with adorable child actors, and of course a real car that “flies” (stage magic!). It’s always a crowd-pleaser to see local performers tackle such a grand show, and a great way to cap off summer break with the kids.

Tickets: via Gatehouse Theatre – likely assigned seating given it’s in the main auditorium.

// Note: Aside from these, the Gatehouse Theatre’s summer lineup also includes one-night tribute concerts and comedy gigs (e.g. tribute bands like The Bon Jovi Experience or comedians like Jason Manford). While those one-night music events are not detailed here, you can find a full schedule on the Gatehouse website. There’s plenty of live entertainment to choose from each week, ensuring that your evenings in Stafford can be just as lively as your days.

Whether you’re exploring a historic castle, dancing in a park festival, hunting for treats at a farmers’ market, or enjoying an open-air Shakespeare under the stars, Stafford and its 10-mile radius offer an abundance of summer delights in 2025. This season’s mix of traditions and new experiences truly showcases the community spirit and cultural vibrancy of the area.

Mark your calendars, book your tickets, and have a fantastic summer in Stafford!