Wood Street was closed to traffic and transformed into a street celebration, with live music, food stalls and entertainment drawing visitors throughout the afternoon and evening.
The weather remained dry throughout, allowing people to make the most of the outdoor festivities.
A full programme of live music kept audiences entertained. Although the planned Taylor Swift tribute act was unable to perform, festival-goers enjoyed sets from UB40 Madness, Pulse and Horizon Line.
UB40 Madness delivered reggae and ska favourites, while mother-and-son duo Pulse performed floor fillers spanning several decades. Acoustic group Horizon Line also proved popular with their interpretations of rock and pop classics.
Food and drink were a central feature of the day, with visitors sampling offerings from a range of local vendors including Diego Ice Cream Van, Blue Goose, Momo King, BBQ Street Box, Purity Pizza, Chicken Kartel, Leyvan Spice, Nina Andina, Hop Kettle, Stockers and Mama’s Sweets.
Community groups and businesses were also represented, including Pit Stop Parties, Glamorose, Swindon Arts Centre, Swindon Pride, Gift & Grace and Leadership Martial Arts, as well as newcomers The Hidden Gem.
One of the standout moments came after the festival at 8pm when 360 Comps held a live prize draw to give away an Audi TT. The car was won by 18 year old Kieran Saunders.
The Wood Street Party marked the finale of this year’s revised Old Town Festival programme, which also featured a fringe week of arts, music and community events at venues across Old Town.
Kris Talikowski, Chair of the Old Town Business Association, said:
“Seeing thousands of people enjoying themselves in Old Town made all the hard work by our team worthwhile. The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic, local businesses were busy and it was great to see the community come together once again.
“The weather held off, the entertainment was brilliant and the feedback from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive.”
“Events like this don’t happen by accident. They rely on businesses, volunteers, performers, community groups and sponsors all pulling together. We’d like to thank everyone who helped make the day such a success.”
The festival was sponsored by Deacon & Son, The Kings Arms, Domino’s and Los Gatos, and delivered in partnership with South Swindon Parish Council.
Organisers said ongoing support from local businesses and community partners remains vital in helping to stage events that attract visitors and support the Old Town economy.
Planning is now under way for the next event, a Beer & Country Music Festival on 9th June.
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