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Event Details
Welcome to the Chimney Sweeps Festival 2027 in Rochester
Every year on the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, the historic old town of Rochester in Kent turns into one continuous street celebration. The Rochester Sweeps Festival is considered one of the largest May Day festivals of its kind in the world, drawing more than 55,000 visitors over three days.
Highlights and Attractions at the Chimney Sweeps Festival in Rochester
- More than 60 Morris dance sides from across the country performing along the High Street
- The colourful Jack in the Green parade on the Monday, setting off from Castle Gardens and winding through the whole town
- International folk and dance groups, with past editions welcoming teams from Slovakia, India and Ireland
- A funfair with rides, real ale and music marquees in Castle Gardens
- Buskers and street theatre performances all along the High Street
- River Medway boat tours passing the cathedral and castle skyline
- A family friendly program that is entirely free to attend
Program and Schedule: What to Expect in 2027
The festival traditionally opens on Saturday with the largest gathering of Morris dance sides along the High Street. Sunday puts the spotlight on international folk music and dance, while Monday, the actual bank holiday, builds toward the Jack in the Green parade as the grand finale. The detailed 2027 program will only be published closer to the date, but is expected to follow this well established three day pattern.
Tickets and Admission for the Chimney Sweeps Festival 2027
The Rochester Sweeps Festival is a completely free street festival, no ticket is required for any part of the main program. A few optional extras such as river boat tours or food stalls are paid separately on site, but the core program on the High Street and in Castle Gardens remains open to everyone.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Rochester
- Rochester station sits right in the historic centre, with Strood and Chatham stations also within walking distance
- Free buses and a park and ride shuttle from the university campus in Chatham typically run throughout the weekend
- Since the town centre gets very busy on all three days, public transport is strongly preferable to driving
- Accommodation in Rochester and nearby Chatham should be booked well ahead given the size of the crowds
- Comfortable, weather ready clothing is recommended, as most of the program takes place outdoors
Note: The information on this page was researched at the time of writing and may have changed since then (e.g. date, venue, or program). Visit the organizer's official website →
The photo used is illustrative and does not necessarily depict the actual event.
