Unwrapped Festival returns to Eastleigh and Hedge End

Unwrapped Festival showcased local talent across the weekend, giving performers and independent traders the chance to show off their work at the family event.

Talent took over Leigh Road Recreation Ground between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and then hosted high quality, hand-picked live performances at Greta Park at the same times on Sunday.

Giant bubbles caught the attention of many families throughout the day. (Image: Newsquest) The organisers of the festival, backed by Arts Council England and Eastleigh Borough Council, were determined to bring fun opportunities at a free to attend event.

READ MORE: Performers to spill onto streets of Eastleigh during free festival this weekend

“There’s something here for all ages,” organiser Louisa Millburn said.

“You don’t need to have been to an arts thing before. We’ve had lovely performances where you can sit, have a picnic and watch a show, or you can get more involved with the sessions we’ve got across the event.”

Chris the Juggler launched his diablo in the air and caught it in front of a big crowd. (Image: Newsquest) Six coloured “zones” on the field acted as venues for performances, such as the Jellyfish Theatre’s play “The Dragon Wagon” or Chris the Juggler’s workshop and show.

Jellyfish Theatre's play The Dragon Wagon. (Image: Newsquest) “It’s funny watching the crowds move across all the different bits on the field,” independent Emma Moules-Jones of Drawn By Emma Designs said.

“It’s been really nice, good chatting to people when they’re coming to shelter from the rain. It’s been busier than expected, it’s been fantastic.”

Emma Moules-Jones of Drawn By Emma Designs said it was really nice to chat to customers. (Image: Newsquest) Other events taking place across the weekend decided to cancel due to the threat of thunderstorms on Saturday.

READ MORE: This is why hundreds of sail boats could be seen off the coast of Hampshire today

Celine Purvis of Evie Rose Kitchen said the weather on Saturday was hit and miss. (Image: Newsquest) Celine Purvis of Evie Rose Kitchen was selling a wide selection of baked goods, and said the weather was “hit and miss” on the morning of the festival’s first day.

“I’ve been watching the weather every day in the lead up and it’s been changing every day,” she said.

“People have been amazing and I’ve had really good feedback on the products, and they’ve sold quite well today.”

Charlotte Hall, artistic director at The Point Eastleigh, said: "Unwrapped Festival is a celebration of community and creativity.

"It's wonderful to see people of all ages come together to enjoy the arts in the borough’s beautiful outdoor spaces."