Crows flock towards Rochester Sweeps Festival 2026

BAND TO PLAY TWO SHOWS ON SUNDAY 3rd MAY 2026

The Old Country Crows are looking forward to returning to Rochester Sweeps Festival 2026 with two shows in one day. They play Castle Gardens Main Stage from 11:00 - 11:45am and Ye Arrow Pub & Restaurant from 1:00 - 3:00pm on Sunday 3rd May.

The Rochester Sweeps Festival is a celebration dating back 300 years. 

In Victorian times chimney sweeps only had one day off a year and it was on 1 May. 

In Rochester, the chimney sweeps would parade down the high street dancing and singing as they got a much-needed break from a grimy and tough trade.

When the Climbing Boys Act was introduced in 1868, stopping the employment of young boys in chimney cleaning, the tradition and spirit of the Sweeps Festival gradually withered away. However in the 1980s, historian Gordon Newton breathed new life into the festival, spearheading a small parade including Morris dancers from his own Motley Morris crew.

Since then the festival has blossomed into a must-attend event attracting hundreds of locals and tourists. From spirited dance troupes to folk music and eclectic musical acts, the festivities offer something for everyone.

This festival is one of the highlights on the Kent summer calendar so the band look forward to seeing some familiar faces on the day. Let's folk 'n' roll!!