Harlow’s beloved Town Park bandstand is set to make a triumphant return this summer after being rebuilt into a bigger, more modern and reimagined venue following last September’s devastating fire. It’s reopening will mark a major milestone in restoring one of the town’s most cherished landmarks – soon to be filled once again with music, community spirit and celebration.
Harlow Council has today announced that on Saturday 4 July the newly rebuilt bandstand will host its first major event: a spectacular Last Night of the Proms-style concert performed by the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. The event will mark not only the reopening of the bandstand, but the beginning of a new programme of performances and community celebrations at the iconic venue.
The concert promises an unforgettable evening of music, featuring the famous Proms anthems including Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia. These much-loved classics will be brought to life by the internationally acclaimed orchestra, known for its performances at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, creating a vibrant celebration of British musical tradition as the bandstand begins its exciting new chapter.
Joined by Harlow Chorus, community organisations and support acts performing throughout the afternoon, the celebrations will build towards a spectacular fireworks finale, lighting up Town Park with colour, music and energy.
The event will be completely free, with no tickets required, making it open to families, friends and visitors from across the town. Alongside the music, a range of catering outlets will be available, helping to create a true celebration of the best of British in the heart of Harlow.
Announcing the new bandstand’s opening event, Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:
“We promised to rebuild the bandstand ready to host major events this summer, and we are delivering on that promise. For decades it brought our community together through free music and celebration, and now it will return bigger and better than ever. Since last year’s devastating fire, we have moved at pace to deliver our eight-step plan, with construction now well under way.
“Bringing the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra to Harlow for the very first event shows the ambition we have for this iconic venue. It will be a spectacular night and the start of an exciting new chapter for the bandstand, with many more fantastic events to come this summer ahead of the Town Show on the August Bank Holiday weekend.
“This is yet more proof that we’re restoring pride in our town, putting it back on the map and Building Harlow’s Future.”
Residents are invited to bring their families, wave their flags, and join the first of many spectacular events that will usher the bandstand into its next chapter.