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Centre Stage to return to Richmond this summer

Fahad Redha

February 18, 2026
3 min read

Centre Stage to return to Richmond this summer

Following the “roaring success” of Centre Stage last year, the popular festival will return to Richmond upon Thames this summer. On Saturday 18^th July, the town centre will “burst back into life,” according to the council as partners with Orange Tree Theatre and Richmond BID to transform George Street and Whittaker Square into a “a day-long celebration of music, performance, food and family-friendly fun.”

Last year, Centre Stage drew thousands of visitors, with footfall rising by 30%. This saw local businesses given a boost, and the Museum of Richmond recording its highest ever visitor numbers.

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Centre Stage 2026 will feature live music, street performers, workshops and skateable art, family activities, and an independent makers market, food stalls from local traders. Richmond Myths will be a new pop-up performance strand between Friday 17^th and Sunday 19^th July, reimagining legendary tales in shops, historic buildings, and unexpected corners of the town.

If you’re a trader, artist, or want to volunteer, you can register soon. To find out more, contact events@hemingwaydesign.co.uk. The council says “practical information for residents and businesses, including road closures, access, and servicing,” will follow, will the full programme set to be released in June.

Highlights from Centre Stage 2025 are available at on the Centre Stage website. The festival is a joint venture between the Council, Richmond BID, HemingwayDesign & Orange Tree Theatre.

For more updates on Richmond upon Thames, visit EyeOnLondon Richmond upon Thames.