In a month which saw the census results showing the town’s population had increased by 12% in a decade, and a bin lorry named after Ricky Gervais, Reading spent much of July continuing celebrations from the jubilee.
Bastille Day, Eid, and ReadiPop all showcased the diverse cultures that the town is home to as well as the very best that the communities within it have to offer.
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With three stages of music and three days of acts and activities, ReadiPop showed that it the festival is going stronger than ever.
It also celebrated local breweries, with Siren Craft Brew, Phantom Brewing, and Double Barrel Brewery all being featured at its Purple Turtle bar tent.
Reading-based rap artist K. Kayne was one of the acts of the weekend who had been helped by ReadiPop’s work in the community.
He said: “I’m signed to Riser, ReadiPop’s label, and they took me on when I was a vulnerable youth.
“They really liked the way I worked, and said we really want you to be a part of this – the way I look at it, I want to leave a legacy.
“I’ve been in dark places in my life, and I want people to speak out, to know that they can reach out.
“We don’t really treat artists that well here, but ReadiPop pushes as hard as it can to get unsigned artists into the spotlight.”
Headliner Badly Drawn Boy said that the charity’s work was something “that should be an integral thing.”
“Everybody needs more help, and the community spirit brings younger, unsigned bands to stages like this, and we’re all the same.
“I don’t take this for granted, and anything that can help and nurture talent is going to help the industry.”
Reading’s own rock quartet Third Lung said: “The crowd were phenomenal – so supportive and there was a beautiful vibe, the four of us were buzzing.
“After waiting years for ReadiPop to finally happen, it felt really special – they have done such an incredible job, and they’re amazing at showcasing and supporting a wide range of local talent, too.
“It’s so important to the local scene and may it long continue.”
Third Lung would go on to release their debut album, Gameplay, later in the year.
Henley Festival also upped the ante this year as it celebrated its 40th anniversary.
Some of the biggest names in music gave performances, such as Tom Jones, Pete Tong, and Katherine Jenkins.
Among them was Craig David, whose set led to a particularly meme-worthy moment when a number of news outlets featured Theresa May dancing along to some of David’s biggest hits.
The festival began with its usual offering of a number of diverse exhibition spaces, featuring striking modern pieces, bold sculpture work, and more traditional artworks.
They were followed by a spectacular fireworks display, complete with a moving drone display to honour the anniversary
As well as music, the evening offered comedy performances from Ahir Shah, Glen Moore, Maisie Adam, and Andy Parsons.
The festival also saw a particularly notable performance from Boney M, who made a rare appearance with original lead singer Liz Mitchell.
While the entirety of the set was a highlight, classic hits Daddy Cool and Ra-Ra Rasputin were met with unmatched cheering and applause.
The festival was home to a number of exhibition spaces, displaying a wide array of art pieces.
Jack Milroy’s intricate designs, made from carefully cut-out printed media arranged in long, 3D strips was among some of the most vivid at the festival.
His exhibits included an arresting combination of classic comic books, cartoon characters, and pin-ups in a bright, eye-catching, and textured visual experience.
Among the other pieces on display were some of the work of Australian artist Ester Erlich, whose striking portraiture work stood out.
Her piece Scarlet made for an imposing artwork in the space which felt like it was viewing you as much as you were viewing it.
In July, Reading’s Muslim communities took to Palmer Park for a celebration of Eid-ul-Adha.
Visitors observed prayers before a lively funfair on Saturday, July 9, in an event hosted by Cumberland Road Masjid.
Eid-ul-Adha is one of two Islamic festivals celebrated worldwide every year, with thousands attending the event in Reading.
Organiser Shazad Asghar was full of praise for the event’s success, saying: “It’s gone really well, it’s really nice to see so many Muslims and families, old and young.”
Guest speaker Sheikh Abu Taymiyyah delivered the Khutbah speech, highlighting the celebration as an opportunity to consolidate visitors’ faith.
Families were then treated to entertainment including fairground rides, an ice cream van and egg and spoon races.
Less than a week later, Bastille Day celebrations took place in the heat of the summer over a whole weekend, the tenth celebration of the national day of France to take place in the town.
Forbury Gardens played host to the festivities with live music and performances at the band stand, food and drinks stalls, and even a visit from Alok Sharma MP.
Guests were treated to musical performances by Elodie Siby and Maloé, who were joined by Muriel on the Sunday.
Founder and co-director of the Bastille Day Festival Charity, Vincent Valere, said: “It was a great tenth anniversary, and really different this year.
“It was great to have performers from Paris, and to have French people coming together to celebrate, it makes a really good atmosphere.”
“We had Alok Sharma on Saturday, too– he came and introduced himself, we spoke a little, and he had a look around the stalls.”
The weather remained sunny, perfect for the free sports and activities on offer such as archery and arts and crafts.
Mr Valere said: “I think people really enjoyed the event, as it’s an opportunity to celebrate diversity.
“It’s open to everyone, and I think people like that”
As the summer continued to sizzle and scorch, the town Reading saw some of the highest temperatures in its history.
While the record of 36.4°C was reached in 2003, July saw temperatures of 35°C at the University of Reading.
Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust was also awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, the highest level of accreditation given by the Ministry of Defence.
The trust was one of only 16 organisations across the south east of England to receive the honour.
The awards recognise the support provided to all those with a connection to the Armed Forces including reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and spouses and partners.
Julian Emms, chief executive at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be recognised with a Gold Award, which reflects our long-term commitment to being a forces-friendly employer.
“The valuable skills and experience that veterans gain during their time in the forces is a real asset so it’s really important to us that we recognise their contribution and give veterans, reservists and their families every opportunity to build a fulfilling career at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.”
