Sowerby Bridge Rushbearing is a community festival celebrating the centuries-old English tradition of carrying fresh rushes to churches. Held annually in late summer, the event is one of the few celebrations of this custom still taking place each year. The 2026 festival is scheduled for Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, marking the 50th rushbearing celebrations.

Across the weekend, a procession travels through local towns and villages, visiting churches, pubs, cricket clubs and bowling clubs. Its centrepiece is a decorated, thatched rushcart, around sixteen feet high, pulled by sixty local men in traditional dress. A team of women take turns riding on the cart, while supporters, musicians and Morris dance teams accompany the procession and entertain crowds.

The festival offers a programme of events, performers and route information, with activities designed for families and friends. It helps foster community spirit, supports the local economy and has raised more than £23,500 for local charities and good causes. The organisers welcome charity suggestions and local sponsors.