Firstly let me say, I’m no seasoned festival chaser, having only been to a handful over the last few years, however I can honestly say some of the most vivid and blissful moments of my adult life have taken place at music festivals.
I have found myself pulled from the ground and hoisted into the branches of trees, filled with happy revellers with whom to spend the dewing early morning hours. I have been moved to tears, simultaneously with thousands of other like minded people, as a favourite act debuts a new, soon to be classic, song for the first time. I have eaten THE best burrito that money will ever buy and I have wandered through bass filled fields, drink in hand, toke in the other, and truly taken stock of my humble, 20-something year old existence.
When your commute constitutes a stumble from campsite to Main Stage, your only appointments are with your favourite bands and those new hidden jewels of the line up, it just is infinitely easier to be relaxed, centred and authentically yourself.
But obviously the experience comes at a price and I’m not just talking about the price paid by your personal hygiene (oh, the smell of dry shampoo and baby wipes in the morning; am I right ladies?). Luckily, with Britain’s festival culture still bubbling away nicely every summer, there are enough events out there to give a few cheaper options, without skimping on quality; here’s my little guide.
The Hidden Gem: Beacons Festival - Weekend Ticket £99.50
Who? There’s a pretty solid line-up for a new kid on the block, especially one that’s taking place in a relatively unconventional setting….unless you’re filming Emmerdale. Solange, Savages, Bonobo, Django Django, Bondax and Eats Everything are just a few reasons to be excited.
Where? Funkirk Estate, Skipton, in the Yorkshire Dales, lovely stuff!
When? Friday 16th to Sunday 18th August.
Why? It’s also got that family vibe, which I usually count as a bonus. Not because I’m trying to integrate myself into someone else’s family or play with other peoples’ kids. I just find everything feels a little bit safer and nicer and you can always wait until the wee small hours to get your party rocks off in an adults only way all the same!
The Hipster One: Lovebox - Weekend Ticket £99.00
What? Lovebox takes place right in the middle of East London; surrounded by cool kids, scenesters, hipsters, alternatives and probably some other sub-species of faux artisan douche, chomping at the bit to moan about something that would’ve been better if it were sponsored by Urban Outfitters…god I hate that place….did I mention that? Also, sometimes normal people go along too, I think. Any way, it’s got a lot to live up to is what I’m saying. That’s why you can usually depend on a pretty stellar line-up.
Who? There seems to be a pretty heavy dance focus this year, but in a good way, so it’s cool: Azealia Banks, Disclosure, Julio Bashmore, Monki, SBTRKT AlunaGeorge, Camo & Krooked, Netsky, Goldfrapp, Lil Kim (I know, right?!), Purity Ring, Jurassic 5 along with Hospitality’s finest High Contrast, London Elektricity and Lung.
Where? Victoria Park, London.
When? Friday 19th to Sunday 21st of July.
Why? Because all cool points aside, it’s a really good line-up, the organisers totally know what they’re doing and it’s in the heart of the city; that’s a recipe for some serious fun-times!
The Cool One: Farr Festival - Weekend Ticket £75.00
What? In the three years it’s been running Farr has risen to one of the finest underground festivals you can find. The critics are in love with it and organisers clearly have their fingers firmly on the pulse; giving a pretty interesting platform for new acts.
Who? For me at least this one looks like one of those line-ups that you know just enough about to be excited for going but you’re sure to walk away with a head full of new music to explore when you get back into the real world; and I just love those! The bill is like a well selected pick’n’mix of underground up-and-comers and more established acts: Andrew Weatherall, Bicep, Ben Pearce, South London Ordanance to name just a few.
Where? Newnham, Hertfordshire
When? Friday 19th to Sunday 21st of July
Why? It's in a forest! An actual forest surrounded by corn fields just outside of London and even though organisers are keen to keep the event on the small side, apparently it gets better every year; I’m keen! And its only £75?!
The Mellow One: Lounge On The Farm - Weekend Ticket £100
What? The name of the game according to LOTF: laziness. Well as this award winning festival is now in it’s 8th year, I’m guessing the laziness is intended for you, not for them and I’m cool with that. They advocate good food, the best local booze, a laid back atmosphere, sweet beats, spa treatments and gorgeous countryside views; SOLD!
Who? The line-up is looking pretty eclectic with a nice little comedy aspect to boot; Seasick Steve, Jessie Ware, Soul II Soul, Man Like Me, Tribes, Dub Pistols, Stephen K Amos and lots more to be announced.
Where? Merton Farm, Kent
When? Friday 26th to Sunday 28th July
Why? This seems like the “good-guy” of boutique festivals; a family-friendly safe site, a local arts and culture focus, social and environmental responsibility, a competent line-up to suit most tastes and it’s affordable. I’ll definitely try and head down to the farm this summer!
The balls-out debauchery-fest: Berlin Festival - Weekend Ticket 89 Euro
What? Basically, it’s a full on festival take over of one of the hardest partying cities in the world, bringing the biggest international indie, electro and pop acts to the best clubs and venues Berlin has to offer. Wild!
Who? Clearly a stomping ground for the big boys, with a German edge; we’ve got Blur, Pet Shop Boys, MIA., Villagers, x Röyksopp, Björk, Ellie Goulding and my new summer favesies Parquet Courts.
Where? Paris………………..yea, no, it’s Berlin, stupid.
When? Friday 6th to Saturday 7th September
Why? You literally don’t need me to say another word, do you? You’ve just bought your ticket, right? Just leave your dignity at home and don’t forget to pack your dancing shoes….you’re welcome.
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