SaxFest 2025 delivers a feel-good weekend of music, community, and celebration

The town came alive on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th August as SaxFest, Saxmundham’s free community festival, welcomed over 2,500 visitors for a sun-drenched weekend of live entertainment, food, and family fun.

Kicking off with local talents, the festival buzzed with a fantastic community vibe, bringing together residents, visitors, and performers in a celebration of local talent. The  festival grounds played host to more than 20 different acts, most of whom hail from Suffolk, delivering performances that ranged from soulful acoustic sets to high-energy tribute acts.

The headliners drew a huge crowd, with tribute acts UK Queen and ABBA Chique lighting up the main stage, alongside popular bands, such as Cat’s Squirrel, Reno and Rome, and Smokin’ Sons of Stratford.

Saxmundham Market also joined forces with SaxFest to create a lively pop-up market experience at Seaman Avenue play park. The market featured an array of artisan goods and handmade crafts, offering something for every interest.

For families and children, the festival offered a packed programme of free creative activities, from music workshops and arts and crafts to circus skills and magic shows.

Festival organiser Terry Barrow said:

“We are absolutely delighted by the success of SaxFest. The support from our sponsors, tireless volunteers, and the wonderful local community made this weekend unforgettable. Perfect weather helped, but it was the spirit of Saxmundham that truly shone. We thank everyone who joined us in celebrating this special town and its talent.”

Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the festival’s atmosphere and community spirit. One attendee commented, “Amazing performances, loving the strong community spirit!” while another said, “It’s the second time I’ve been and it was really good, well organised event with great atmosphere.”