Get ready for another unforgettable celebration of culture, creativity, and community under the summer sky as Festival on The Close returns to the heart of Rugby from June 21st to 26th, 2025.

Set on the picturesque Close in the grounds of Rugby School, this year’s festival boasts an incredible lineup with something for everyone. With bars and food stalls open throughout the evenings, festival-goers can soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the shows from the comfort of their own rugs or deckchairs. Large screens on the main outdoor arena stage guarantee excellent views from every spot on The Close.

The festival kicks off on Saturday, June 21st at 8pm with Manford’s Comedy Club, a night of side-splitting laughter in support of Cancer Research UK. Hosted by MC Barry Dodds, the evening features hilarious performances from Babatunde Aleshe, Charlie Lewis, and headline act Maisie Adam.

On Sunday, June 22nd at 8pm, get ready to dance the night away with a Jo Whiley DJ Set, supported by electric string quartet Stringfever. Jo Whiley, a broadcasting icon, will spin an eclectic mix of singalong anthems and party hits, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Stringfever will start the evening off, with Jo Whiley taking to the stage at approximately 8.45pm.

Monday, June 23rd at 8pm brings the internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band and conductor Barry Forgie to the stage for a celebration of swing legends. Two wonderful vocalists will join the band; Iain Mackenzie and Emer McParland. Prepare to be delighted by one of the world’s leading jazz orchestras.

Tuesday, June 24th at 8pm features the hilarious and musically gifted The Horne Section. Known as “Britain’s Funniest Band” (The Guardian), Alex Horne and his band will deliver their HitShow, promising an evening of laughter and musical mayhem.

The organisers will be adding to the already exciting lineup with the announcement of further acts at the end of March.

"We are incredibly excited to bring such a diverse and high-calibre lineup to Rugby for Festival on The Close 2025," says Festival Manager Amie Johnson. "From comedy to DJ sets, big band swing to hilarious musical theatre, there's something for everyone. We’re also thrilled to support Cancer Research UK and partner with local youth group the Bradby Club."

"Now in its eighth year, we are proud that the Festival on The Close continues to grow” says Festival Directors Tim Coker and Richard Tanner. “Not only attracting world-class arts and culture to Rugby, but also offering thousands of local school children the chance to engage in free creative workshops throughout the week as part of our on-going partnership with local schools. The work that the festival does in our community is something we at Rugby School are incredibly proud of, and we look forward to inspiring more children and adults this year in our most ambitious festival yet."

Exclusive Offers:

· Enter the early bird discount code “EARLYBIRD” at checkout for special savings on four nights of world-class entertainment.

· Purchase a main stage pass for reduced-rate access to all main stage 8pm acts.

All profits from Festival on The Close 2025 will be donated to Cancer Research UK. The festival is also partnering with Bradby Club, a charity youth organisation for young people in Rugby, who will be collecting donations at each event. Find out more and purchase tickets from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/thefestivalontheclose