by Martin Brookes orneditor@post.com
Dust off your picnic blankets and prepare for a summer of music in the park. Oakham Town Council is has announced the return of the Summer Sunday Concerts at the Queen Elizabeth II Bandstand in Cutts Close Park, Oakham, Rutland.
Running from late June through the end of August, these events offer the perfect backdrop for a quintessential British summer afternoon. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the beautiful market town, you are cordially invited to enjoy local talent in the sunshine* (*not guaranteed)
The performances are scheduled for every Sunday (plus Bank Holiday Monday) throughout the summer season.
Performances typically start at 2:30 PM.
The performances are completely FREE to attend. These events are proudly funded by the local taxpayers of Oakham, with the Town Council investing £9,110 this year.
Refreshments and food are normally available on-site, but Cutts Close is also a fantastic spot for a family and friends picnic.
While the music is free, local charities often pass a donation bucket around. Your generosity helps support vital work within the Rutland community.
The 2026 Lineup
21st June – The Houndogs
21st June – The Houndogs
Kicking off the season with, The Houndogs are a rockabilly band. Expect high-octane energy, wild stage antics, and a mix of 50s rock 'n' roll classics that will have the whole park dancing.
Website: thehoundogs.co.uk
Facebook: The Houndogs
28th June – Armed Forces Day: Alan Jackson & The Rutland Big Band
In honor of Armed Forces Day, the Rutland Big Band brings the sophisticated sound of the swing era to the park. From Glenn Miller to Sinatra, they deliver a powerful, brassy performance that celebrates the best of big band jazz. There will be other attractions in the park for this event organised by The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness.
Website: rutlandbigband.org.uk
Facebook: Rutland Big Band
5th July – Bad Bayou
Bringing a taste of the swamp to Rutland, Bad Bayou specialises in Cajun and Zydeco music. Their accordion-led, foot-stomping rhythms are infectious and perfect for a mid-summer afternoon.
Facebook: Bad Bayou Band
12th July – Uppingham Soul and Jazz Band
A local favorite, this ensemble delivers smooth jazz standards and upbeat soul classics. Their polished sound is the ideal accompaniment to a relaxed Sunday picnic.
Facebook: Uppingham Soul and Jazz Band
19th July – Top Banana Band
This 9-piece soul, funk, and blues powerhouse is guaranteed to get people moving. With a full brass section and powerhouse vocals, they cover everything from Motown to modern funk.
Website: topbananaband.co.uk
Facebook: Top Banana Band
26th July – Idle Hands
An East Midlands-based 5-piece indie, rock, and pop covers band. Featuring both male and female vocals, they play a versatile range of hits from Oasis and AC/DC to Florence + The Machine.
Facebook: Idle Hands
2nd August – Bongo Rat Pack
Expect a sophisticated afternoon of swing and "Rat Pack" cool. This group brings the glamour of Las Vegas to Oakham, performing timeless hits from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.
Facebook: Bongo Rat Pack
9th August – Hathern Band
Showcasing the very best of British brass tradition, the Hathern Band is an award-winning First Section brass band. Their repertoire ranges from traditional marches to modern film scores.
Website: hathernband.co.uk
Facebook: Hathern Band
16th August – Kobras Band
Bringing a more contemporary edge to the bandstand, Kobras are known for their classic rock covers and soulful energy. A great act for those who love guitar-driven melodies.
Facebook: The Kobras
23rd August – Out of the Blue
A versatile party band that covers a wide spectrum of popular music across the decades. Known for their tight harmonies and engaging stage presence, they are always a crowd-pleaser.
Facebook: Out of the Blue Oakham
30th August – Bank Holiday Special: CJ Hatt and Vesper
A double-header to close out the season CJ Hatt is a highly popular acoustic soloist known for his huge repertoire of pop and rock hits, while Vesper provides a high-energy band experience to end the summer on a high note.
CJ Hatt Facebook: CJ Hatt
Vesper Facebook: Vesper Band
Please note: All performances are subject to weather conditions. For updates, please check the Oakham Town Council website or social media pages.
https://www.facebook.com/oakhamtowncouncil
https://oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk/
Editor’s Note:
Our sincere thanks go to Cllr Sally-Anne Wadsworth and the dedicated members of the events committee, who work tirelessly to bring these community gatherings to life.
We would also like to recognise the invaluable support of Oakham Town Council’s Acting Deputy Clerk, Melanie Palmer, whose coordination and hard work behind the scenes ensure these events run smoothly for all to enjoy.
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