Summer Lovin’ in the Cotswolds: Your Festival Guide
Hey there, festival fans! If you love warm summer days, rolling hills, and incredible live events, then the Cotswolds should be on your radar big time! The Cotswolds comes alive every summer with some truly unique and awesome festivals and I would suggest that it has firmly puts itself on the maps as a firm favourite for the summer festival circuit.
Now, I’m no expert, but I’ve done my fair share of Cotswolds festival-hopping. It’s always a blast! Whether its for the music, food or just the quirky vibes – there’s always something for everyone. Let’s dive into a few of my top picks for 2024, shall we?
1. The Big Feastival
If you’re a foodie at heart (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), then The Big Feastival is a must-see. Top-notch chefs, live music, and a whole lot of deliciousness come together on Alex James’ (from the band Blur) farm. I went a couple of years back and basically ate my weight in cheese and gourmet snacks. It’s like a giant farmer’s market mixed with a concert – what could be better?
2. Wilderness Festival
Wilderness is for the adventurous festival-goer. Imagine music, of course, but also talks, workshops, woodland adventures, and even lakeside swimming! It encourages you to explore new things and get a little wild (hence the name). One year, I stumbled upon a hidden forest theater with an incredible poetry performance. You never quite know what you’ll find at Wilderness.
3. Cotswold Olimpick Games
Hold on, did someone say “Olimpicks”? Well, not quite THE Olympics, but still pretty hilarious! This quirky festival is a blast from the past, with traditional country games like shin-kicking and the infamous cheese rolling race. I mean, watching people chase a wheel of cheese down a hill? You can’t make this stuff up! It’s the kind of unique experience you only find in the Cotswolds.
4. Wychwood Festival
Wychwood Festival is a vibrant family-friendly music and arts festival held annually at the picturesque Cheltenham Racecourse. This beloved event offers a captivating blend of legendary headliners, up-and-coming indie bands, and a diverse array of music genres alongside hilarious comedy acts. Wychwood is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere and abundance of activities designed for all ages, including workshops, a dedicated children’s literature festival, and plenty of opportunities to explore the arts. With its beautiful setting and commitment to providing an unforgettable experience, Wychwood Festival is a highlight of the Cheltenham cultural calendar.
5. Cheltenham Jazz Festival
The Cheltenham Jazz Festival transforms the historic town of Cheltenham into a vibrant hub of jazz music each spring. This internationally acclaimed festival showcases a stellar mix of legendary performers and emerging artists representing the full spectrum of jazz styles. From intimate club gigs to the buzzing festival village, Cheltenham Jazz Festival offers a dynamic mix of ticketed concerts and free performances. Beyond music, the festival fosters a lively atmosphere with talks, workshops, and special events, making it a must-attend experience for dedicated jazz aficionados and those simply looking for a culturally immersive weekend.
Just One More Thing…
I could go on about Cotswolds festivals forever! But, my best advice is to keep an eye out for lesser-known gems. There are loads of smaller, niche festivals popping up all over the place – from folk music weekends to dog-friendly bashes. You never know what you might discover.
So, grab your mates, pack your wellies (you know, just in case!), and get ready for a summer of fun in the Cotswolds. And remember, half the joy of a festival is the adventure of finding the ones that speak to you!
