Existance Festival, a popular music event in the Cotswolds, has confirmed it will return in 2027 following the cancellation of this year’s festival just one week before it was due to take place.
Held at Boldridge Farm near Tetbury, the festival showcases psychedelic electronica and space bass music. Originally scheduled for June 2026, the four-day event in Long Newnton was postponed to September after organisers disclosed they were managing a “complex legal issue” earlier in June.
With the rescheduled dates approaching, organisers announced on Facebook that Existance Festival would again not proceed. They attributed the cancellation to difficulties in securing essential infrastructure, which would have compromised the festival’s high standards, as well as site complications caused by a summer fire.
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Planned for 3 to 6 September, the event was officially called off on 28 August, shortly after receiving council licensing approval. The organisers described the choice as “extremely difficult” but assured attendees the festival will return from 10 to 13 June 2027.
Tickets purchased for the 2026 festival will remain valid for the 2027 event, with refunds available through the ticketing platform for those unable to attend in 2027.
In their cancellation statement, Existance Festival explained: “Since June, we’ve maintained the venue booking for September, scheduled four music stages including replacement headliners, covered legal costs defending the licence against local objections, and funded additional fire safety measures following the hot summer.”
“License approval arrived late after a hearing prompted by local concerns, requiring legal, audio, and safety expertise. This delay was exacerbated by changes to the site following a fire during the summer, demanding further resources and time.”
“Most recently, we’ve encountered problems with supply of key infrastructure, impacting our ability to deliver the quality experience promised to our community, or indeed, the event itself.”
“After exploring multiple options, we concluded that proceeding would compromise the festival and its experience. Existance has always been about more than music; it’s a community we’ve built together. We know many have made plans and awaited the festival eagerly. We are truly sorry to be in this position.”
The cancellation was met with disappointment among ticket holders, though many expressed understanding and support for the organisers. One commenter shared: “So very sorry for the crew who have been putting so much time, energy and money into making it happen. You have our total support!”
Another expressed their disappointment but looked forward to the next year: “I’m gutted, but it’s comforting to see others feeling the same. Here’s to next year.”