A year shy of its 30th anniversary, Mole Valley’s Arts Alive Festival has long offered a wide range of hands-on artistic pursuits for people of all ages to experience and enjoy throughout October. This year’s packed programme features over 100 events across Mole Valley, including historical talks, walking tours, music, creative workshops and theatre performances.

Running from 1st to 31st October, this year’s events are all listed on www.arts-alive.co.uk. Paper copies of the programme are also available to pick up at no cost from libraries in the district. Nearly half of the events are completely free of charge, or under £5 to attend, and some do require booking in advance.

The 2025 festival saw a staggering 14,000 people attend across around 100 events. This year’s Arts Alive is set to kick off in style at two launch events taking place in Mole Valley’s two town centres. Prepare for an extravaganza of completely free entertainment, including music, dance, balloons and children’s facepainting. Come along to celebrate the start of a special arts-focused season this October.

Leatherhead: Saturday 19th September: 10.30am to 12.30pm in Leatherhead High Street

Dorking: Saturday 26th September: 10.30am to 12.30pm in St. Martin’s Square (St Martin’s Walk)

Because of its packed and varied programme, Mole Valley’s Arts Alive has for decades had a broad appeal to children, families and adults. This year is no different, from creative classes for children and families during the October half term, to evening dance classes and comedy events specifically for the enjoyment of adults.

Sponsored by Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) and HJP Chartered Financial Planning, Arts Alive is delighted to confirm that Jack Pepper returns for a second consecutive year as the festival’s patron. Jack is a musical theatre songwriter and Magic Classical Radio presenter who is recognised as one of the UK’s youngest commissioned composers and dubbed the ‘King’s Composer'.