The Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Elections: A Day of Tradition, Music, and Mayhem

Every July, Woodstock Town Square transforms into a carnival of democracy, entertainment, and British eccentricity. The Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Elections isn't just about crowning a ceremonial leader – it's a full day of music, food, family fun, and 238-year-old traditions that bring the entire community together.

A Day That Has Everything

From 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM, the Town Square buzzes with activity that would make any festival organizer jealous. But this isn't just any event – it's a carefully orchestrated celebration that balances ancient ceremonies with modern entertainment, all while raising money for local charities.

The Musical Journey

The day kicks off with DJ Lucy spinning her signature blend of funky soul – described as "Oxfordshire's finest female funk DJ over 55." As the afternoon progresses, the energy builds with Sol Samba, a Brazilian percussion and dance group that's been inspiring Oxford with authentic carnival music since 1999. Their high-energy drumming and dancing transforms the typically reserved Town Square into a Rio-style celebration.

Evening brings live bands that get everyone on their feet. The Kokroachez deliver energetic indie rock, while Five O'Clock Somewhere closes out the night with infectious rhythms that have the whole crowd dancing. It's a musical journey from afternoon funk to evening festival vibes.

Entertainment for All Ages

Children are spoiled for choice with face painting, a luxury tombola bursting with local business donations, and traditional fete games including Splat the Rat, Higher/Lower card games, and giant versions of Connect 4 and Jenga. Professional face painting transforms little ones into tigers, princesses, and superheroes throughout the afternoon.

The Charity Bar Experience

One of the event's newest additions is the charity bar, which has revolutionized both the atmosphere and fundraising. Serving everything from locally-sourced ales and lagers to Pimm's cocktails and prosecco, it's become the social heart of the event. The "card only" policy keeps things moving smoothly while every purchase directly supports three vital local causes: the Woodstock Lunch Club, Bereavement Café, Singing for Fun and Woodstock Primary School.

Food to Fuel the Fun

Forget boring festival food – the Mock Mayor serves up quality. The White Horse Pizza Co. provides wood-fired pizzas that disappear as fast as they're made. Local businesses ensure visitors are well-fed throughout the day, from afternoon snacks to evening meals.

The Ancient Ceremonies

At the heart of it all are the traditions that make this event unique. Mock Court at 5:00 PM sees local characters, politicians, and even pets facing charges of everything from excessive cheerfulness to illegal squirrel-chasing. The formal elections at 5:30 PM feature candidates delivering speeches from beer crates, promising everything from pub-to-house tunnels to municipal discount funerals.

But the real spectacle is the 6:00 PM procession. Led by the samba dancers, Sol Samba, and the newly-elected Mock Mayor in their crimson Witney blanket robes and curtain ring chain of office, the parade winds through Blenheim Park to the River Glyme. There, tradition demands the "baptism" of the Mock Mayor in the sheep wash, followed by the ceremonial turning of backs on New Woodstock as they cross into Old Woodstock territory.

The day culminates with the "Dance of the Mayors" – a ritual meeting between the Mock Mayor and the real Mayor of Woodstock that's part diplomatic summit, part comedy show.

Community Spirit in Action

What makes the Mock Mayor special isn't just the entertainment – it's the genuine community involvement. Local businesses donate prizes, volunteers run stalls, families bring three generations to watch the ceremonies, and visitors from around the world stumble upon this uniquely British celebration.

The event has raised thousands for local charities while preserving traditions that predate most countries. It's proof that the best community events aren't just entertainment – they're expressions of local identity, shared values, and the British ability to take important things seriously while having enormous fun.

More Than Just a Day Out

Whether you come for the music, stay for the comedy of Mock Court, or find yourself swept up in the ancient procession, the Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Elections offers something genuinely unique. It's living history, community celebration, and charitable fundraising rolled into one unforgettable day.

Join us on 19th July for the next Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Elections and experience 238 years of tradition, entertainment, and community spirit in the heart of the Cotswolds.