Events & Entertainment, Poole | Posted on June 4th, 2026 | return to news

Grooves on the Green returns to Poole

A weekend of live music, food and family entertainment is promised at this event, which runs from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June.

Live music, delicious food, family entertainment and community spirit all add up to the return of Grooves on the Green at Ashley Cross, Poole, from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June.

Festival organiser Jan Crump said: “The summer starts here, and we’re going to have a fantastic time at what has become the focal point of this wonderful community.

“We’re beyond excited to welcome the amazing Rockaoke to Ashley Cross for the first time, alongside classic 90s chart favourites Livin’ Joy, and top festival DJ OPD.”

Friday headliners Rockaoke are a true cultural phenomenon. As the UK’s leading live karaoke band, they have appeared on BBC Radio 1, Sky TV’s ‘A League of Their Own’, Ibiza Rocks and the Isle of Wight Festival. Audience members can sign up for free and take to the stage to perform one of over 300 songs backed by a professional live band.

Saturday’s headline act, Livin’ Joy, are best known for their chart-topping anthem ‘Dreamer’ and dance floor favourites ‘Follow the Rules’ and ‘Where Can I Find Love’. They headline a packed Main Stage programme alongside Back to the 90s favourite DJ OPD, crowd-pleasing rocker Chris Payn, tribute acts The Few Fighters and Oasiss, and Grooves regulars Volatile Agents – the unique band whose members include doctors, surgeons, theatre medics and even a member of the judiciary.

Sunday’s line-up includes the hugely popular Fleetwood Shack, the nine-piece ska band Rat Race and high-energy party starters BB3.

Hosting the Main Stage throughout the weekend will be DJ Allan Turner-Ward, while the popular Entertainment Stage features a packed programme including the Mad4Animals Show, Squidge & Pop’s unbelievable balloons, Krazy Kev’s magic and games, Little Gizmos character appearances, CoMotion Dance, dress-up discos and the magic of Mr Merlin.

“Ashley Cross knows how to host a party,” adds Jan, “and Grooves has a special atmosphere created by local stallholders, local musicians, local entertainers and local businesses coming together. People travel from miles around to join us, but at its heart Grooves is all about community.”

Over the years, Grooves on the Green has raised more than £50,000 for Diverse Abilities, helping the charity continue its invaluable work supporting children and adults with physical and learning disabilities. Jan’s son Brandon, who uses Diverse Abilities services, has played a key role in helping secure raffle prizes from local businesses.

Festival-goers can enjoy a wide range of drinks from the ever-popular Bricklayers Bar and dedicated Grooves Garden Bar.

The food line-up is bigger than ever, with everything from Greek favourites and authentic curries to wood-fired pizza, bao buns, bratwurst, burgers, crêpes and artisan doughnuts.

Grooves on the Green opens at 4pm on Friday and 11am on both Saturday and Sunday. Bars close at 9pm on Friday and Saturday, and 7pm on Sunday.