A festival which saw George Street closed to cars last year is set to return to Richmond this summer.

Richmond Council has confirmed that Centre Stage will take place on Saturday 18 July, transforming George Street and Whittaker Square into a free day-long celebration of music, performance, food and family activities.

The event is being delivered in partnership with Orange Tree Theatre, Richmond BID and HemingwayDesign.

Organisers say last year's festival increased footfall by 30% and boosted local businesses, with hospitality takings rising between 20 and 45% and retail up 10 to 30%.

The Museum of Richmond also recorded its highest visitor numbers during the event.

Councillor Katie Mansfield, Richmond Council's Lead Member for Richmond Town Centre, said: "Centre Stage brings people back onto the high street.

"Last year proved that when we use George Street and Whittaker Square in a more creative way, the town buzzes, local businesses see the benefit and our community comes together.

"This year we're building on what worked, with more opportunities for traders, local artists and activities for residents of all ages."

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Centre Stage 2026 will include:

• Live music, street performers and workshops
• Skateable art installations
• Family activities and an independent makers market
• Food stalls from local traders

A new pop-up performance strand called Richmond Myths will also run from 17–19 July, bringing performances into shops, historic buildings and unexpected spaces around the town.

Tom Littler, Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive of Orange Tree Theatre, said the weekend would celebrate a wide range of local creativity and collaboration.

Council leader Gareth Roberts added: "Residents have been clear – they want a high street full of life and activity.

"Centre Stage delivers exactly that, right in the heart of Richmond. And after such a strong first year, building on that success is the right next step."

Traders, artists and volunteers will soon be able to register interest, with practical details such as road closures and access arrangements to follow.

The full programme is expected to be released in June.

Centre Stage is curated by Orange Tree Theatre and HemingwayDesign in partnership with Richmond Council.

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