People of all ages, cultures and backgrounds united in enjoyment of a single event.

Rhythms of the World (ROTW) was founded in 1992 by the Hitchin Oxfam Campaigns group to raise money for Oxfam and to highlight Oxfam campaign issues. The world music concept reflected Oxfam's internationalism and linked well with the multi-cultural nature of Hitchin.

Rhythms of the World is more than a music festival. It is a community event which offers world music and performing arts in the town of Hitchin and the unique capacity to involve people of all ages, races, abilities and backgrounds. We want ROTW to become an example, of national importance, of what can be achieved in a spirit of community co-operation.

ROTW 2009 is planned for the in the beautiful setting of the grounds of the Priory conference centre, located in the heart of Hitchin town on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July.

It will run from midday until 11pm on the Saturday and from midday until 9pm on the Sunday. As before, there will be performances of a worldwide range of music and dance across six stages, a children’s area and art displays. There will also be a grass ‘Arena’ which local sporting and other community groups can use to both compete in and exhibit.

The festival is organised entirely by volunteers as part of a registered charity.

For full details please visit the official Rhythms Of The World website at www.rotw.org.uk

Rhythms Of The World 2008 - Gallery