RAG Parade and Community Festival

A community festival that brought together students, community groups and performers from across Reading has been nominated for the Grassroots Music Award, sponsored by Pride of Reading Awards CIC.

Reading’s RAG Parade and Community Festival brought a “a vibrant and culturally diverse showcase of Reading’s local music scene” to the Forbury Gardens in May 2026.

Delivered through a partnership by the University of Reading, Reading Students’ Union, with local musicians and artists Tomson Chauke, Chris Mitchell, Shara Brink, Anya Fox, Danielle Corbishley, Helen Bligh, Bec Berkley and Benjamin Turner.

“At its heart were grassroots music champions Tomson, Chris and Shara,” said the nominator. “Their passion, dedication and deep connections with Reading’s music community created an exceptional programme across three stages.”

The festival featured an impressive range of local talent and musical traditions, including RASPO, Reading Bhangra Group, Balamuty and Zorya, Charisma Gospel Group, Paul Raymond, Pete Doyle, Ezra, Dreading Slam, Vocal Networking, Arash Shokouhi, MRG41, the Reading University Music Society Jazz Band, and Otto and The Mutapa Calling.

The day began with the return of the historic RAG Parade, led through the town centre by the University Music Society and Universal Voices samba band, with local children and students taking part.

Around 2,000 people attended, enjoying performances that celebrated Reading’s rich mix of cultures and musical styles.

“The festival provided a platform for local grassroots musicians to reach new audiences, helped local partners develop skills in co-curating a festival, and united communities through music,” the nominator added, “creating a sense of pride and lasting legacy for what Reading has to offer.”