IHS Fest 2026 Brings the School Community Together for a Spectacular Summer Celebration

On Friday 19 June 2026, Ipswich High School was transformed into a vibrant festival ground as pupils, parents, staff, alumni and friends gathered for this year’s IHS Fest. Blessed with beautiful summer sunshine, the much-anticipated annual event was a wonderful celebration of community, creativity and school spirit.

From the moment the festival opened, there was a fantastic atmosphere across the school grounds. Visitors enjoyed an exciting programme of live entertainment, with pupils taking to the stage to showcase their musical talents and performance skills. The performances were met with enthusiastic support from the crowd, creating a memorable soundtrack to the evening’s festivities.

Around the site, a variety of stalls offered something for everyone. Local businesses, artisans and community partners added to the festival atmosphere with an array of handcrafted products, gifts, refreshments and sweet treats, ensuring visitors could browse, shop and indulge throughout the evening.

The festival’s attractions proved hugely popular, with families making the most of the inflatables and fairground favourites on offer. Zorbing was a particular hit, with pupils and parents alike enjoying the chance to roll across the iconic River Lawn, providing plenty of laughter and memorable moments throughout the evening. The return of everyone’s favourite fairground Ferris wheel was also warmly welcomed, offering spectacular panoramic views across the River Orwell and the surrounding Suffolk countryside from the top.

Younger guests particularly enjoyed traditional games and challenges, while the range of activities ensured there was plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

The glorious weather provided the perfect backdrop, allowing families and friends to relax, socialise and enjoy everything IHS Fest had to offer. It was a wonderful opportunity for the school community to come together and celebrate the end of another successful academic year.

Events such as IHS Fest are only possible thanks to the dedication, enthusiasm and hard work of the Ipswich High School Association (IHSA). Through their ongoing fundraising efforts, the IHSA continues to support a wide range of initiatives that enrich the pupil experience, helping to provide resources, opportunities and activities that enhance life both inside and outside the classroom.

Funds raised during this year’s festival will contribute towards future projects and opportunities for pupils, and we look forward to sharing more details about the positive impact these contributions will make across the school.

A huge thank you goes to everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, sponsored, donated or worked behind the scenes to make the event such a success. Your support helped create a truly special evening and highlighted the strength, warmth and spirit of the Ipswich High School community.

We are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back for IHS Fest 2027.