THE vibrant Basingstoke Festival kicked off in style on Friday, June 21, with a spectacular opening parade that transported audiences back in time.

Local artist Sarah Thomas-Lane masterfully produced the parade, which featured a kaleidoscope of performers, community groups, charities, schools, and colleges. Together, they painted a picture of Basingstoke's rich history, bringing the town's past to life for all to enjoy.

The fun continues for two more weekends, with an array of street theatre, outdoor arts, circus, dance and music.

READ MORE: All you need to know as Basingstoke Festival 2024 kicks off

Audiences can expect a delightful mix of acts, some with minimal or no speech, making them perfect for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Performances with spoken word will be sign language interpreted, ensuring inclusivity for the deaf community.

Check out the gallery above to see some of the best parade pictures captured by Ian Longthorne.