Art Exhibitions
The Wonderful World of the Ladybird Artists
Until 8 September
St Albans Museum + Gallery
From the iconic Peter and Jane books to classic fairy tales like Chicken Licken and The Three Little Pigs, this exhibition uncovers the story of the talented artists who illustrated the beloved Ladybird books. Visitors can explore a ‘Wall of Books’ showcasing around 500 Ladybird books from 1940 to 1980, leaf through over 200 shared books in a ‘Summer Meadow’ installation, and enjoy interactive games.
Ayot St Lawrence Art Show
15-16 June
St Lawrence Church
This art show returns to the picturesque village of Ayot St Lawrence, featuring a fantastic range of artists exhibiting in various media. Discover new artists, explore art for sale, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Grade I listed Palladian church.
Music and Performances
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
14 June
Alban Arena
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, the most famous bagpipe band on the planet, bring their unique blend of bagpipes with attitude, drums with a Scottish accent, and a show that leaves audiences with warm hearts and smiles on their faces.
Summer Open Air Festival
Until 8 September
Roman Theatre of Verulamium
Experience captivating and imaginative performances of classic plays and stories in the atmospheric setting of the Roman Theatre of Verulamium. Presented by the production company OVO, this festival promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Summer Solstice Concert
23 June
UH Arts + Culture
Celebrate the Summer Solstice and the official start of summer with the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra. Enjoy beautiful summery tunes, including Smetana’s Vysehrad, Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Sibelius’ Symphonies 6 and 7.
Events and Festivals
Welwyn Festival
22-30 June
Welwyn
Welwyn throws a week-long celebration in June, featuring a street market and family fun with a Street Parade, dog show, Raffle, beer tent, and classic car exhibit—the perfect way to kickstart the summer.
The Alban Festival
22 June
St Albans
This festival promises a day of fun for all, including an impressive procession of 12ft tall carnival puppets, a re-enactment of events leading to St Alban’s execution, live music from local musicians, arts, crafts, games, activities, entertainment, street food, and shopping from local traders.
SustFest
7-16 June
St Albans
The award-winning SustFest inspires living sustainably through engaging events and activities held by groups, organizations, and businesses across St Albans, Harpenden, and the villages. Don’t miss the new EXPO event at the Alban Arena from 7 to 9 June, a fun, informative, and thought-provoking weekend.
Film and Theatre
The Fall Guy
7-8 June
Odyssey
This hilarious, hard-driving, all-star apex-action thriller starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt is a love letter to action movies and the classic TV series “The Fall Guy.”
Macbeth
5 June
Watford Palace Theatre
Don’t miss this brand-new William Shakespeare’s Macbeth production, starring Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma. Filmed live at a custom-built theatre space in London, this critically acclaimed staging promises to be unmissable on the big screen.
Hertfordshire promises a vibrant summer filled with art, music, performances, events, and festivals for all ages and interests. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness and embrace the warm summer days ahead.
