The procession from Spencer Park to the Hall grounds was witnessed by a large turnout of spectators. It caused the chairman of the Organising Committee (Coun. W. E. Capon) to reminisce at the opening: “When we came up the High Street it reminded me very much of those great parades we held during the war; it does prove once again that Rushden can rise to the occasion. I think everyone in Rushden must have been lining the route from Spencer Park.”

During the opening by Festival Queen Margaret Chapman, however, heavy rain started and continued throughout the afternoon. The Enfield Archers attempted their archery display, but the greater part had to be cancelled. The 5th Battalion Northamptonshire Regiment T.A. Beat the Retreat after tea, and the Corby Pipe Band carried out their contribution before an even heavier downpour caused the fete’s close-down soon after seven o’clock.