When we think of festivals, most of us imagine summer weekends, and hopefully some pretty decent weather, even if this is the UK. Just because the nights are getting darker and the temperatures are plummeting though, this doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a bit of festival action. There’s a wide range of fantastic events running throughout the winter months, and here, we share some of the very best.
The Big Reunion, Skegness (21-23 November & 28–30 November 2014)
Don’t let the name fool you – this festival has nothing to do with the recent ITV that sought to bring forgotten pop stars back on to our screens. Set over two weekends, it brings some of the biggest names from contemporary music to the stage, including the likes of Tinie Tempah and Pendulum. In true festival style, there’s plenty to keep you entertained aside from the acts themselves. The pool parties are always a popular choice amongst the young revelers, and the after-parties stretch well into the early hours. Pack your best clubbing gear and prepare for a big one.
Spitalfields Music, London (5-16 December 2014)
With its renowned markets and distinctive arty vibe, Spitalfields was the obvious location in the capital to host a range of family-friendly performances in the run up to the festive period. With a focus on classical music and a repertoire of acts from across the globe, as well as some local talent, this festival will appeal to the more sophisticated music lover who wants to incorporate the experience with a few days of seeing the sights in London. There are plenty of other attractions in the area, from Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park to shopping on Oxford Street.
Rise Festival (13-20 December 2014)
Fancy going just a little further afield? Rise Festival, organised in corporation with the promoters behind Ibiza Rocks, takes place in the French Alps, and incorporates a musical agenda featuring Clean Bandit, Nicola Bear, and Hannah Wants, with skiing and other activities such as wall climbing and shopping. In true Alps style, there’s a wide range of après bar crawls for you to enjoy. Don’t worry too much about getting there, either – the organisers have a range of packages that include travel from London. You can also rent ski equipment once you arrive, so it’s suitable for newbies.
Tallinn Music Week, Estonia (25-28 March 2015)
Tallinn is a relatively small corner of Estonia with a reputation for attracting British tourists for a weekend of debauchery, but in March, it plays host to a small four-day festival that is quickly gaining a reputation for being one to watch. The acts are often lesser known and you aren’t likely to catch any big names anywhere near here, but for many, that’s all part of the charm. Try this festival if you’re looking for a new experience, and you want to be introduced to some obscure Balkan beats.
Wonderfruit, Thailand (19-21 December 2014)
Thailand isn’t a location that most of us would associate with music festivals, but Wonderfruit has the added benefit of offering some pretty good weather alongside its musical line-up. Artists on the bill include Hercules and Love Affair, as well as The Gaslamp Killer. There’s also a strong programme of arts, dining, workshops, theatre, films, and outdoor activities. This year will be the first Wonderfruit event, but with the backing from the promoters behind Wilderness Festival, it’s set to be a big one.
Instead of waiting until next summer comes around before considering your next musical adventure, why not try out one of these festivals for a winter break with a difference?