10 Nov 2026
World famous Britain’s Got Talent stars Electric Umbrella Choir will be performing for paricipants on arrival at this year’s St Albans Sleepout – followed by creative challenges, treasure hunts and local people coming together for an incredible cause.
This Friday (November 13), Oaklands College will be transformed into a hive of activity as the St Albans Sleepout returns for another evening of community spirit, entertainment, creativity and fundraising.
With live performances, special guests, activities for all ages and a cardboard construction competition, this is no ordinary charity event.
But behind all the excitement lies a powerful purpose: bringing our community together to raise vital funds and awareness for people experiencing homelessness. And this year, the organisers are pulling out all the stops.
What better way to kick off the evening than with a performance from the incredible Electric Umbrella, the inclusive music charity and choir known for appearing on BGT last year?
From 7pm, participants arriving at Oaklands College will be greeted by the band’s infectious energy, uplifting music and feel-good atmosphere. If you’ve ever seen them perform, you’ll know they have an amazing ability to get everyone smiling, singing and feeling part of something special.
And that’s exactly what the St Albans Sleepout is all about.
Move over, Grand Designs. St Albans has a new building competition in town.
At 8pm, the creativity begins as participants head to the Cardboard Collection Zone and Den Decorating Resource Centre.
Think cardboard castles, colourful creations, imaginative structures and perhaps a few ambitious architectural disasters.
The challenge? Create something spectacular using cardboard and decorations, with prizes up for grabs in the Best Decorated Dens competition.
Whether you’re taking part with family, friends, colleagues or your community group, it’s a brilliant opportunity to get creative and work together. Just remember – no tents allowed. This is strictly a cardboard affair.
There’s plenty more happening beyond the Cardboard Construction Zone. The Activities Zone will be buzzing with things to do for all ages, including a treasure hunt, quizzes and other entertainment.
Emmaus Hertfordshire will be running a special mosaic-making workshop. Using colourful tiles, participants can create their own unique mosaic keepsake to take home. No artistic talent required, no experience necessary – just a willingness to have a go.
There will also be food vans on site, so everyone can enjoy something delicious before the evening’s main entertainment begins.
At 9pm, everyone will gather in the event marquee for the official welcome. The High Sheriff Anna Rankin and St Albans Mayor Cllr Matt Fisher will join the evening, alongside representatives from the charities benefiting from the Sleepout, who will share insights into the work being done to support people facing homelessness.
There will also be live entertainment from local artists Elizabeth and Jameson, and, of course, the moment every cardboard architect has been waiting for… The Deck Your Den winners will be announced!
By 10.30pm, the entertainment winds down and the atmosphere changes. The music stops, the activities finish and participants prepare to spend the night outdoors in November.
And this is where the excitement of the evening gives way to something much more meaningful.
For most participants, the experience will be cold, uncomfortable and challenging. But when morning arrives, they’ll be able to return to the warmth and security of their homes. For people experiencing homelessness, that security isn’t always there.
The Sleepout is not intended to recreate the experience of homelessness. Instead, it’s an opportunity to raise awareness, bring the community together and generate vital funds for local organisations supporting people in need.
Throughout the night, hot drinks will be available, a designated indoor quiet area will provide somewhere to take a break, and the Sleepout Team will carry out regular patrols to check everyone is doing okay.
As the sun begins to rise at 5.30am, participants will be greeted with a well-deserved breakfast provided by the Watford Rapid Relief Team. After a challenging night, it’ll be a welcome opportunity to warm up, refuel and reflect on the experience.
Then it’s time to dismantle the cardboard creations, recycle the materials, clear the site and head home. The event officially finishes at 7am, with everyone required to leave by 7.30am.
And while everyone will undoubtedly be looking forward to getting home, they’ll also be taking away something far more valuable – the knowledge that they’ve helped make a difference.
Behind the music, laughter and cardboard creations is a serious purpose. The St Albans Sleepout brings together five local charities – Herts Young Homeless, Emmaus Hertfordshire, Open Door, The Living Room and Centre 33 – all working in different ways to support people facing homelessness and other challenges in our community.
Last year’s Sleepout raised an incredible £27,763, and this year the ambition is even bigger.
Every participant, every team and every pound raised helps make a difference. Whether you’re a family looking for a meaningful challenge, a business wanting to bring colleagues together, a community group or simply someone who wants to do something positive for St Albans, there’s a place for you.
Participants should come prepared for a cold November night with warm clothing, plenty of layers, waterproofs, a torch, snacks and appropriate overnight essentials.
Cardboard will be provided, although participants are encouraged to bring extra if possible – particularly if they’re planning an award-winning creation. Don’t forget your decorations.
And most importantly, bring your completed registration form, as you won’t be able to participate without it.
Please note that tents and alcohol are not permitted.
There’s still time to get involved.
Gather your friends, round up the family, persuade your colleagues and start planning that cardboard masterpiece.
Sign up now at www.stalbanssleepout.org.uk/sign-up.
