Shakespeare's Birthday Parade 2026

The traditional Birthday Celebrations return to Stratford-upon-Avon in April, extending a hand of cultural friendship to many national and international visitors who come to join in the festivities.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to Stratford-upon-Avon on Saturday 25 April 2026 for this year’s event.

🌟 Be part of history, pageantry, and celebration! Whether you’re marching, watching, or simply soaking in the magic, Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrations promise an unforgettable experience in Stratford-upon-Avon! 🎉

2026 Parade Programme

💃 9:15 AM | Country Dancing on Bridge Street
Traditional dancing gets the celebrations underway.

🎶 9:45 AM – 10:15 AM | Live Music & Entertainment
Enjoy performances on Bridge Street before the parade begins.

🎒 10:30 AM | Primary Schools Parade
School children parade from Waterside to Bridge Street.

🚶 10:35 AM | Community Representatives Parade
Community representatives leave Waterside and make their way to Bridge Street.

🎺 10:40 AM | Dignitaries & Special Guests Arrive
The WMFS Band leads dignitaries and special guests from the Town Hall to Bridge Street.

🎭 10:46 AM | Mr Shakespeare Arrives
Mr Shakespeare arrives at Bridge Street for the main ceremony.

🎺 11:00 AM | Flag Unfurling Ceremony
Followed by the National Anthem.

⛪ 11:04 AM | Primary Schools Parade to Holy Trinity Church
The procession continues from Bridge Street to Holy Trinity Church.

🚶‍♂️ 11:10 AM | Shakespeare Birthday Parade
Led by the Air Training Corps Band, KES students parade to Holy Trinity Church.

🎵 11:20 AM | The Civic Procession
Led by the WMFS Band, dignitaries, special guests and community groups parade to Holy Trinity Church.

🌸 11:28 AM | Spectators Invited to Join
Spectators are welcome to join the parade and lay flowers at Holy Trinity Church.

🎭 11:50 AM | The Procession Concludes
With flowers placed and respects paid, the official Procession comes to a close.