The Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) is back this summer, bringing one of the UK’s most celebrated outdoor arts festivals to the heart of Stockton-on-Tees – and for the first time, the action will unfold in the town’s stunning new Waterfront park.
From Friday 31st July to Sunday 2nd August, SIRF 2026 will deliver a packed programme of street theatre, dance, music and large-scale outdoor arts. Audiences can look forward to 100 performances from 42 companies representing the Tees Valley, France, Catalonia, the Netherlands, Korea, Australia and across the UK. In true SIRF tradition, community involvement remains central, with 11 shows featuring participation from local residents.
The festival launches on Friday evening with a high-energy party in the park. London-based favourites Cable Street Collective will set the tone with their infectious blend of African-inspired rhythms, soulful vocals and bold pop melodies. They are joined by Teesside’s rising rock ’n’ rollers Marketplace and international collective The Turbans, whose fusion of Balkan, Middle Eastern and North African influences promises an unforgettable live experience.
Across the weekend, audiences can explore Morphosis, a striking bamboo installation by French company Cie Moso. Part sculpture, part performance and part hands-on experience, the ever-changing structure invites visitors to help build, climb and explore this living architectural artwork. Festival-goers can also relax at SIRF Green in Finkle Square – the festival village offering street food, garden seating and a showcase of regional musical talent including DJ Marco, Izzy Neish, Annie Lince and Cue Music.
On Sunday at 2pm, the much-loved Community Carnival returns with the theme Our Place – Where the River Carries Us, celebrating Stockton’s past, present and future. More than 800 participants will parade through the riverside, urban park and High Street in a vibrant display of colour, costume and creativity.
The festival concludes with Euforia, a breathtaking aerial dance finale by Catalonian company Sacuda. Suspended high above the ground, dancers soar, spin and dive in a thrilling fusion of acrobatics, music and movement – followed by a spectacular firework display to close the weekend.
Councillor Nigel Cooke said SIRF will “transform Stockton’s urban park and town centre into a theatrical feast of fun and wonder”, adding that all events remain free to attend
For further information, head to SIRF.co.uk.
