Summer of stories, theatre and family fun at the Oxfordshire Museum
Visitors can look forward to a summer of stories, creativity and live entertainment as the Oxfordshire Museum unveils its 2026 programme.
The summer holidays will bring a wide range of events and activities for all ages, including two ticketed performances in the Oxfordshire County Council-run museum gardens.
The programme begins on Saturday 11 July, when 440 Theatre returns to the museum gardens in Woodstock with an outdoor performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Live music follows on Friday 14 August, when Moonrakers perform Magic, Myth and Mystery in British Folk Music.
Tickets for both events are available to purchase through the museum’s website.
The events form part of a wider programme inspired by the museum’s summer exhibition, Timeless Tales, which opens on Saturday 18 July and explores Oxfordshire’s myths, superstitions and traditions. 
The museum will also launch on Bloomberg Connects on 18 July, giving visitors free access to digital content and tours designed to enhance their visit.
The accessible app includes exclusive curator interviews and self-guided tours to help visitors explore the collections in more depth.
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “The Oxfordshire Museum has put together a brilliant summer programme with something for everyone to enjoy.
“From theatre and live music to crafts, storytelling and hands-on activities, it offers families a great way to spend time together, get creative and explore Oxfordshire’s stories and heritage. It is important to us that many of the activities are free, so as many people as possible can take part.
“The launch of Bloomberg Connects this summer will also give visitors another way to discover more about the museum and its collections.”
Children and families can also enjoy free holiday activities at the Oxfordshire Museum, the Bishop’s Palace in Witney and Swalcliffe Barn.
At the Oxfordshire Museum, activities will run from 28 July to 27 August on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. A special storytelling event, Dragons and Ditches – Cuckoos and Witches, will take place on 1 August thanks to support from the Friends of the Oxfordshire Museum.
There will also be workshops for adults, including creative writing and summer posy making, while the museum café will be open throughout the season serving freshly prepared lunches and homemade bakes.
Find out more about summer events and activities at the Oxfordshire Museum by visiting its website.
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