The annual well-dressing at the parish church of Holywell-cum-Needingworth takes place on the nearest weekend before 24th June, the day in the Christian calendar that celebrates the birth of St John the Baptist, our church’s patron saint.

On the Friday of the festival we hold a Service of Well-blessing, beginning in the church and ending at the Holy Well in the churchyard, at which the well-dressing is unveiled. This is followed by refreshments and  music, outdoors in good weather.

Over the weekend visitors can view the well-dressing and the Flower Festival in the church – flower arrangements are contributed by all the clubs, societies and organisations in the village. Teas and home-made cake are on offer on the Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and there is often a concert or other musical event on the Sunday afternoon.

Above: Pupils and staff of Holywell C of E Primary School hold their own special well-blessing service on the Friday afternoon.

Left: The 2024 well-dressing theme celebrated ‘70 years of Girl Guiding in the village