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Your Ultimate Music Festival Guide for 2024 near Reading

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Summer is here, and that means it’s time for music festivals! Get ready for months of fun, sun, and mud with our ultimate music festival guide for 2024. If you’re looking for musical mayhem in a field near Reading, we’ve got you covered. Check out the best music festivals in the area using our festival calendar. See you down there!

  1. Readipop Festival – July 12th-14 (Reading) For over seven years, the Readipop Festival has become a highly anticipated event in the Reading community. It offers a diverse range of music genres, ensuring there’s something to entertain people of all ages. However, the festival’s impact goes beyond entertainment, as it supports the incredible work of Readipop as a charity.

    As Readipop celebrates its 26th year of using music to make a positive difference, it has become an indispensable resource in the Reading community. Through various projects, such as music-based mentoring for young individuals facing challenges and weekly music workshops open to all ages and skill levels, Readipop continues to have a transformative impact.

    This year line-up include: Ash, Fabio & Grooverider, Echobelly, Republica, Dub Pistols, Goldie Lookin’ Chain, A Certain Ratio, Pip Blom, International Resque and more…
  2. Revival Festival – July 12th-14th – Experience Revival Festival, a haven for music enthusiasts of all genres. Whether you’re enchanted by the infectious beats of House, Garage, Drum & Bass, Trance, Hardcore, or Pop, our carefully curated stage entertainment lineup will cater to your musical preferences. Brace yourself for incredible performances by Peter Andre, Luck & Neat, Shades Of Rhythm, 911, K-klass, Alex Party, Dj Ironik, Paul Packham, Slipmatt, Artful Dodger, Ratpack, Five, Blazin’ Squad, Jx, Public Domain, Paul Packham.

    But Revival Festival is more than just music. Immerse yourself in a world of delightful experiences as we unveil our exclusive campsite, providing the perfect setting to relax and connect with fellow festivalgoers. Treat your taste buds to a tantalizing adventure at our vibrant street food festival, offering a diverse selection of culinary delights.

    Revival Reading is at Liebenrood Road, Tilehurst, Reading, RG30 2ND
  3. Truck Festival – July 26th-28th (Oxfordshire) Truck Festival, in its 19th year, is extending its weekend and welcoming families, teenagers, adults, newcomers, and loyal fans. With a fantastic lineup featuring Jamie T, Wet Leg, The Streets with Thursday headliner Idles and and more, Truck Festival promises an incredible atmosphere for all ages. Enjoy the sunshine, music, and watch the children play until they fall asleep exhausted.
  4. Womad Festival – July 25th-28th (Wiltshire) Womad Festival is a music feast that opens up your kids’ eyes and ears to the diverse world we live in. Experience performances from artists hailing from all corners of the globe. With kids and adult workshops on world food, drumming, and more, this festival offers a unique educational experience. Performers like Young Fathers, Amadou & Mariam, Gogol Bordello, Sampa The Great, Alison Goldfrapp, Baaba Maal, Alborosie will perform on stage, creating a captivating World of Music, Arts, and Dance Festival.
  5. Wilderness Festival – August 1st-4th Escape to Wilderness Festival for a weekend of music, arts, feasting, dining, talks, debates, and relaxation. With an eclectic lineup featuring Michael Kiwanuka, Faithless (Live), BICEP present CHROMA (AV DJ set), Jessie Ware, Alison Goldfrapp, Barry Can’t Swim, Palace, Bill Bailey and more, Wilderness promises a perfect escape. Explore the beautiful surroundings, swim in lakes, and indulge in the sanctuary for your well-being. The Family Field will keep the little ones entertained.
  6. Boomtown Fair – August 7th-11th (Winchester) Experience the narrative-driven madness of Boomtown Fair. With a range of genres, including house, techno, bass, garage, hip-hop, indie, pop, grime, reggae, and more, Boomtown offers something for everyone. While the lineup for 2024 has not been announced at the time of writing, previous editions have featured renowned artists. Join the rebellion and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this must-attend event.
  7. Rewind South – August 16th-18th Rewind Festival is a nostalgic journey back to the ’80s. With a lineup showcasing bands and solo artists from the 1980s, it’s not just about the music. Performers like Billy Ocean, Gabrielle, Kim Wilde, Heather Small, Boyzlife, Jason Donovan will perform on stage.
    Enjoy fun fair rides, street entertainment, glamping, theme bars, silent disco, roller disco, and more. Experience the emotional reunion of the crowd and artists, relishing in the joy of 80s music.
  8. Reading Festival – August 21st-25th Reading Festival remains true to its roots as a music festival. With headliners like Liam Gallagher, Blink 182, Fred Again.., the festival attracts fans from various towns, creating a special environment to enjoy big acts. While the main stage focuses on deserving acts, you’ll find a wide mix of bands on other stages, ensuring a diverse musical experience.
  9. CarFest 2024 – August 23th-25th. Once again, it’s time to journey back to Laverstoke Park Farm near Basingstoke, as we prepare for the exciting event taking place during the final weekend of August. The brainchild of Chris Evans, this festival was conceived to provide support for UK Children’s Charities. Now celebrating its 12th year, CarFest has rapidly evolved into the most prominent family fundraising festival in the UK.

    Over the course of the three days in August, attendees will be treated to captivating performances by some of the finest UK artists, including Richard Ashcroft, Olly Murs, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Deacon Blue, Johnny Marr, Sam Ryder, Beverley Knight, along with numerous bands and talented DJs. Beyond the musical extravaganza, visitors will have the chance to marvel at high-speed automobiles and even meet icons from the realms of television, theater, music, and sports.
  10. Boogietown Festival – Get ready for an epic weekend at Boogietown as Apps Court in Surrey is transformed into a disco, funk, and soul paradise on September 7th and 8th. With an eclectic mix of genres and iconic artists, Boogietown promises an immersive experience like no other.

    The Main Stage will be a star-studded affair featuring legendary acts like Boy George & The Culture Club, KC & The Sunshine Band, Lisa Stansfield, The Jacksons, Boney M, Wet Wet Wet, and many more. It’s the heartbeat of the festival, where crowds gather to dance, sing along, and be swept away by unforgettable performances. Boogietown guarantees a weekend filled with music, dancing, and positive vibes, making it a must-attend event on the festival calendar.

Gear up for an unforgettable festival season near Reading. Enjoy the music, atmosphere, and camaraderie of fellow festival-goers. Get your tickets and prepare for an incredible summer filled with fantastic performances and lifelong memories.

Events

Celebrate the Magic of the Solstice at Wasing’s Woodland Haven this Weekend

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Solstice At Wasing

On Friday, June 20th, people around the world will be celebrating the summer solstice under the same sky — truly an event that connects us all, regardless of borders or time zones. Wasing’s secluded forests offer the opportunity for a weekend filled with live music, shared experiences, and pure elemental magic.

From lush grooves to soulful melodies, the team has curated a rich and vibrant programme made up of artists from all over the world. Some of the key acts include James Blake, Anoushka Shankar, Salif Keita, Alex Serra, Âpe Chimba, The Egg, Sam Lee, Nubiyan Twist, K.O.G., The Turbans, Afrosideral, Tritha, Skyrager (Psychemagik), Omer Gonen-Haela, ÆVERY, Di-Pod, Mira Khanya, Rebecca Dennis, Chris Park, Jill Purce, Rupert Sheldrake, Soul Revolution, Wonderment and Wider Horizons. For the full line up head to www.wasing.co.uk/solstice,

A highlight of the weekend will be the Sunrise Ceremony; a ceremony of people together to receive the first rays of the sun – to celebrate renewal, oneness and nature’s power to inspire awe. As day yields to night, the Sacred Glade awakens a midnight fire, with intimate performances under a sky filled with stars bringing together wilderness, art and community.

We’re proud to be supporting Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) — an extraordinary humanitarian organisation delivering life-saving care all over the world, wherever it’s needed most. With every ticket you buy, we’ll donate £2 directly to Médecins Sans Frontières (UK) (registered charity number 1026588), helping them continue their vital work across more than 70 countries.

Tickets
Grab your spot for the weekend — whether you want to come just for a day or stay for it all.

Vehicle Pass
If you’re driving to the festival, please make sure you book a vehicle pass in advance.

Tipi Accommodation
Tipis can be reserved here and are completely set up with beds, linen, lighting and a supply of local water, toilet and shower facilities. Take your own towels and provisions, and reserve your festival and vehicle passes separately.

Camping
Access to our campsite is included with all Solstice festival tickets on a bring your own tent or campervan basis. The campsite opens at 12pm on Friday 20th June and closes at 4pm on Saturday 21st June.

If you are bringing a vehicle, please purchase a campsite vehicle pass here
The campsite facilities include toilets & access to drinking water.

Accessibility
For all access information, please see the [accessibility guide]. Tickets for accessible events must be accompanied by appropriate documentation and submitted to events@wasing.co.uk 3 weeks from the booking date. All ages are welcome; children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Top Music Festivals in London & South East England 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

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The South East of England, including London, is famous for its vibrant and diverse music scene — and 2025 is shaping up to be no different. Whether you’re into electronic beats, indie rock, or soulful rhythms, this year’s festival lineup has something for everyone.

From underground gigs to major events, here’s your guide to the most exciting music festivals happening across London and the South East in 2025. Don’t wait to grab your tickets — these shows are set to sell out fast!

Shindig Festival – (22 – 25 May)

Shindig Festival offers a boutique music and arts experience, famous for its family-friendly vibe and diverse lineup of international music, art, and community spirit. It’s more than just music — with immersive art installations, engaging talks, and activities for all ages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

We at Reading West kick off the festival season over the bank holiday weekend at Shindig, bringing you all the highlights and stories from this special event.

Taking place from May 22 to 25 at the beautiful Charlton Park Estate in Wiltshire, Shindig has been called “a pint-sized version of Glastonbury” by Glastonbury organiser Emily Eavis — and it’s easy to see why. The festival features an incredible mix of international talent, including Gilles Peterson, Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, and Moonchild Sanelly, who’s worked with Beyoncé, Gorillaz, Self Esteem, and Ezra Collective.

It’s a brilliant celebration of music, arts, and community — the perfect way to welcome summer.

LIDO Festival – (6 -15 June)
LIDO Festival takes place on the historic Lido Field across 10 days in Tower Hamlets, East London. As a fan-first festival, we celebrate globally loved artists who take the lead on the event curation, alongside emerging talent, community engagement, and creativity at the heart of East London. As well as the music, we are also committed to sustainability and giving back to our local surroundings with our policies.

Headliners for the massive weekend concerts are Massive Attack (Friday June 6) Jamie xx (Saturday 7 June), OUTBREAK Fest (Friday 13 June), Charli xcx’s own party girl festival (Saturday 14 June) and London Grammar (Sunday 15 June) for the inaugural LIDO.

Solstice at Wasing – (20-22 June)
Immerse yourself in a magical celebration of light, renewal, and connection at Solstice at Wasing — a unique gathering in the heart of nature, from 20–22 June.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Wasing — a charming West Berkshire village roughly 22 minutes from Reading — this special event invites people from all over the world to come together and celebrate the longest day of the year. Approximately 7.5 miles (12.1 km) south-east of Newbury, Wasing offers a peaceful, secluded setting to appreciate the Sun’s life‑giving energy and reflect on the balance between growth and rest.

The summer solstice is more than just an astronomical moment; it’s a powerful, communal experience — a time when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky and we celebrate its warmth, abundance, and renewal. As the Sun starts its journey back toward winter, the solstice invites us to connect deeply with nature, appreciate the interconnectedness of all things, and celebrate the rich cycle of life.

Join us in the woods for live music from artists including James Blake, Salif Keita, and many more, alongside ceremonies and a deep sense of unity.

To stay up to date with all the latest news and announcements, be sure to join Wasing’s mailing list.

BST Hyde Park – (27 June – 13 July)
Set in the heart of one of London’s most beautiful Royal Parks, BST Hyde Park first came to life in 2013 with a bang — The Rolling Stones returned to relive their iconic 1969 gig, joined by legends like Bon Jovi and Lionel Richie. Since then, it’s become a must-do summer tradition.

Every year, each headline act is supported by an incredible line-up across multiple stages — from global stars to exciting new artists — performing for fans who travel from all over the UK and beyond.

Now a staple of the London summer, BST Hyde Park is more than just a concert — it’s a whole experience. This June and July, the festival is back across three weekends, with huge names like Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Zach Bryan (28 + 29 June), Noah Kahan (4 July), Sabrina Carpenter (5 + 6 July), the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra (10 July), Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts (11 July), Stevie Wonder (12 July), and Jeff Lynne’s ELO (13 July) all taking over the park.

And it’s not just about the music. The midweek Open House programme offers free entry to the site, with outdoor cinema, street food markets, children’s theatre, fitness classes, live music, sports screenings and loads more — making it the perfect summer hangout spot for everyone.

The Love Supreme Jazz Festival (4-6 July)
The Love Supreme Jazz Festival is a three-day event held every July in Glynde Place, East Sussex. It celebrates jazz and related styles like funk, soul, blues, and hip-hop. The festival features five stages: The Main Stage for R&B, funk, soul, and blues; The Big Top with top jazz acts; The Arena for contemporary jazz; The Bandstand showcasing rising and local talent; and Bands & Voices, a new stage for spoken word, dance, and cabaret.

The 2025 Love Supreme Jazz Festival runs from July 4th to 6th, headlined by Jacob Collier on Saturday and Maxwell on Sunday, with Nile Rodgers & Chic also starring. The lineup includes The Roots, a hip-hop group with jazz roots; Motown legend Smokey Robinson, performing his first UK show in over 15 years; R&B chart-toppers En Vogue; soul revivalists Thee Sacred Souls; and the Branford Marsalis Quartet, a renowned jazz ensemble.

GuilFest – (5-6 July)
GuilFest (Winner of the BEST Family Festival in the UK) is back for a weekend packed with fantastic performances, local charm, and a strong sense of community. This much-loved festival promises to be a summer highlight, taking place at Stoke Park in Guildford, Surrey on 5th and 6th July 2025.

The Jacksons and Razorlight are headlining GuilFest on Saturday, July 5th, 2025. GuilFest also features other acts like KT Tunstall, Soul II Soul, and Leo Sayer. The festival takes place at Stoke Park in Guildford.

Kew the Music (8-13 July)
Top international artists set to perform in breathtaking surroundings

The first lineup for London’s beloved outdoor concert series, Kew the Music 2025, has been announced. Headliners include UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell, DJ Spoony Presents Garage Classical, and Nicolas Reyes, the iconic voice of the Gipsy Kings.

This week-long celebration of picnic concerts takes place at the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, Kew Gardens, in southwest London. It’s become a highlight of the city’s summer, drawing music fans of all ages to one of the UK’s most beautiful concert settings.

The month of July holds a special place in my heart, and one of the reasons is Kew The Music. There’s something truly magical about enjoying live music in the beautiful surroundings of Kew Gardens — it’s become a summer tradition I look forward to every year.

What makes this festival truly special is that visitors can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy, or choose from the open-air bars and delicious street food stalls — perfect for a relaxed and unforgettable evening under the sky.

Wireless Festival (11–13 July)
Tickets for Rockstar Energy Presents Wireless 2025 sold out in minutes — the fastest in the festival’s history. Returning to London’s Finsbury Park from 11–13 July, this year’s edition is set to be massive.

Drake headlines all three nights with different setlists, but that’s not all. Wireless is also welcoming back grime legends Boy Better Know for their first live show in eight years, performing on Saturday, 12 July. The crew made history as the first UK grime act to headline the festival — and now, 20 years on, they’re back for a milestone moment in both their story and Wireless’s.

They’ll join a stacked line-up including Burna Boy, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Summer Walker, and Vybz Kartel, as Wireless celebrates its 20th edition with the biggest names in rap, R&B, afrobeats, dancehall, and grime.

Boogietown – (July 12)
Boogietown is a vibrant weekender bursting with disco, soul, and funk vibes. Just 35 minutes from London, it’s set at Apps Court Farm, nestled among the bends of the Thames River, ancient woodlands, rolling green hills, and hidden lakes in the British countryside.

Taking place on Saturday, July 12th, at Apps Court in Walton-On-Thames, Surrey, this one-day festival offers a packed schedule of nonstop top-tier performances. With multiple stages, legendary artists, and energetic DJs, Boogietown creates an electric atmosphere where freedom, self-expression, and pure joy come together.

This year’s unmissable headliners include Kool and the Gang, UB40, and Billy Ocean, promising a day full of unforgettable grooves and good vibes

Kaleidoscope Festival – (12 July)
Kaleidoscope Festival is back at Alexandra Palace on 12 July 2025, ready to bring the good vibes all over again. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of London’s most beautiful spots, this one-day wonder is packed with live music, DJ sets and laugh-out-loud comedy from morning ‘til night.

It’s the kind of day that really has something for everyone – whether you’re a music lover chasing your next favourite act, or a family after a fun, feel-good outing. With incredible views across the city, delicious food and drink, and a proper commitment to sustainability, Kaleidoscope is a summer must.

Faithless are set to headline, bringing their legendary sound to the breathtaking Hilltop Stage – and it’s going to be something special.

They’ll be sharing the bill with a cracking line-up, including Goldie, Eats Everything, Sara Cox, Sleeper, DJ Spoony, Beatles Dub Club, R Voices Choir, Brandon Block, Mele Brown and plenty more. From big tunes to belly laughs, cabaret to kid-friendly fun, it’s all happening at Alexandra Palace – and it’s looking like one of the standout days of the summer.

Uptown Festival 2025 – (27th July)
Uptown Festival 2025 is the perfect day out for families looking to make unforgettable memories in London. Taking place on Sunday, 27th July at Blackheath, this vibrant festival blends legendary music with fun activities for kids and adults alike, making it a must-visit event for all ages.

From 2 pm to 10 pm, enjoy iconic live performances headlined by Boy George and Culture Club, alongside a lively mix of family-friendly entertainment that keeps everyone smiling. Whether you’re planning a special weekend with the kids or just want a festival that everyone can enjoy, Uptown Festival has it all — great music, exciting fun, and memories to last a lifetime.

Boomtown Festival – (6 – 10 August)
The 2025 Boomtown Festival, known as Chapter 4: “Power of Now,” takes place from August 6th to 10th. It’s the UK’s most immersive music experience, blending incredible live music with interactive storytelling and some of the most impressive stage production around.

Starting out in 2009 as a small gathering at Matterley Estate near Winchester, Boomtown has grown into a global phenomenon. Since moving to its current site in 2011, it has become a cultural highlight, attracting tens of thousands of fans every year who come for more than just music — they come for the whole experience.

Headliners on the 2025 bill include Maribou State, Sean Paul, and the Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter…see you there

South Facing Festival – (7-24 August)
South Facing Festival returns to the historic Crystal Palace Bowl in summer 2025 with its most exciting and ambitious programme yet. Set in one of London’s most iconic open-air venues, the festival promises a series of unforgettable live performances throughout August. With a diverse line-up spanning electronic, indie, hip-hop, folk, pop, jazz, reggae, and more, South Facing continues to cement its place as a standout event in the UK’s summer festival calendar.

South Facing Festival 2025 Headliners include…

Mogwai & Lankum 7 August
Flackstock 8 August
Big Smoke / Skepta 9 August
Morcheeba & Unkle 14 August
Busta Rhymes 15 August
Tinlicker 16 August
The Originals. 17 August
Basement Jaxx 22 & 23 August
Nile Rodgers & Chic 24 August
Venue: Crystal Palace Bowl, SE19 2BA

Stowaway Festival – (15-17 August)
Stowaway Festival began as a party for friends – and it still feels that way. Now in its fourth year, it’s a 3-day celebration in the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside, surrounded by ancient woodland, open fields and a stunning lake.

This year’s headliners include Jungle (DJ set), The Wailers, Fabio & Grooverider & The Outlook Orchestra, and Seun Kuti & Egypt 80. You’ll also catch sets from Shy FX, Derrick Carter, Horse Meat Disco, Prosumer, Luke Una, DJ Storm, Don Letts and more.

Expect an eclectic music lineup, free family activities, and a laid-back vibe built on creativity, connection and fun.

Swim, feast, dance, explore. Find secret parties in the woods or unwind by the lake as kids paddle past.
This is your weekend. Come and lose yourself in it.

Found Festival – (22-24 August)
Found Festival is a fresh new chapter from the team behind the UK’s oldest independent festival. Happening from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th August at the beautiful Claydon Estate in Buckingham, it’s all about bringing music, culture, and community together in the most effortless way.

Expect carefully chosen acts in intimate settings, wrapped up in the warmth and experience of six decades of festival magic.

Found Festival is a fresh new venture from the team behind the UK’s oldest independent festival. Taking place from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th August at the beautiful Claydon Estate in Buckingham, it brings music, culture, and community together with effortless ease.

Expect carefully selected acts in intimate settings, all backed by six decades of festival experience.

This year’s inaugural lineup features fantastic artists like Elles Bailey, The Longest Johns, Talisk, Saltlines with Gigspanner Big Band and Raynor Winn, Breabach, The London Afrobeat Collective, and Ríoghnach Connolly & Honeyfeet.

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BST Hyde Park – Summer’s Biggest Party in the Park

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BST Hyde Park

BST Hyde Park is where London truly comes alive each summer – and 2025 is already looking massive. With Olivia Rodrigo, Zack Bryan, Noah Kahan, Sabrina Carpenter, Neil Young with Crazy Horse, Stevie Wonder, and Jeff Lynne’s ELO all heading to the capital, this is shaping up to be one of the biggest line-ups in BST history.

Taking over London’s iconic Royal Park across multiple weekends, BST Hyde Park is more than just a festival – it’s a full-on summer experience. Each headliner brings a carefully chosen supporting line-up, mixing global stars with rising names you’ll be glad you discovered early. And with Sabrina Carpenter playing two sold-out nights, and legends like Stevie Wonder and Neil Young sharing the same bill as Gen Z powerhouses like Olivia Rodrigo, this year’s vibes are truly multigenerational.

Of course, it’s not just about the music. Midweek, the park opens up for Open House – a brilliant free programme where you can catch outdoor films, family-friendly theatre, street food galore, fitness sessions, live music and sport on big screens – all for free. It’s the perfect way to soak up the summer festival feeling, even if you don’t have a ticket.

BST has always been known for huge, unforgettable moments – from The Rolling Stones’ triumphant return in 2013 to show-stopping sets from Adele, Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks, Robbie Williams and more. And 2024 was no different, with a genre-spanning line-up that included SZA, Kings of Leon, Morgan Wallen, Andrea Bocelli, Shania Twain, Kylie Minogue and K-pop stars Stray Kids.

Now, with 2025 already heating up, BST Hyde Park proves once again it’s the ultimate summer destination for live music lovers. Whether you’re here for chart-topping pop, rock royalty, or discovering your next favourite artist under the London sun – there’s nothing quite like it.

For more information, including tickets and full line-up details, visit www.bst-hydepark.com

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