The countdown is officially on — there are now just 3 weeks to go until WOW! Fest 2026!
This July, Walsall Arboretum will once again come alive with an exciting celebration of outdoor arts, dance, movement and creativity. Returning for its 2nd edition, WOW! Fest brings together some of the most inspiring dance and movement-based performances from across the Midlands and beyond, creating a vibrant weekend of free entertainment, discovery and community spirit for audiences of all ages.
Alongside a fantastic programme of professional performances, visitors can enjoy free workshops, creative activities and interactive experiences designed especially for children, young people and families. The festival’s Spotlight Programme will bring together large-scale puppetry, outdoor dance, aerial performance, playful participation and intimate storytelling, including Out of the Deep Blue and Street Games by Autin Dance Theatre, Cloudscapes by Gobbledegook Theatre, Who Do You Think I Am by Nua Dance, and The Sway Poles by Levantes Dance Theatre.
Across the weekend, audiences will be invited to look up, move, play, listen, imagine and take part — from encountering Eko the 13-foot Sea Giant, to joining games from around the world, relaxing into a cloud-gazing experience, watching breathtaking aerial performers high above the crowd, and experiencing thought-provoking contemporary dance in the open air.
The festival’s creative workshops and have-a-go activities will offer hands-on opportunities for families to get involved throughout the day. Visitors can try Aerial Dance Taster Workshops: Up in the Sky, explore Eko the Sea Giant through colouring and puppetry activities, and enjoy Violet and the Sea Giant storytelling and book reading sessions. From physical play and movement to making, storytelling and creative discovery, the entire Arboretum will become a place of imagination, participation and wonder.
We’re also delighted to be working with dozens of schools and community groups on special performances for our Next Gen Stage, showcasing the creativity, talent and passion of young people from across the region.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll be revealing the full festival programme, including performance times, workshops, special guests and more — so keep an eye on our social media channels and make sure you book your free tickets to join us for an unforgettable weekend.
🎟️ WOW! Fest is FREE to attend but spaces are limited — booking your free ticket is recommended!
All events will be free to attend at Walsall Arboretum.
If you would like to get involved, please email hello@autindt.co.uk
