A fresh and independent music festival is making its debut this month at a picturesque Gloucestershire farm, promising a truly unique experience for festival-goers.
Days In The Sun, a new event on the county’s growing festival calendar, will take place over three days on fields situated between Gloucester and Newent. The dog-friendly festival runs from 18 to 20 September at Newbliss Farm in Rudford, with a capacity for 500 attendees and a special emphasis on folk and roots music.
Organisers Caitlin Barrett and Paul Chief O’Neill envision the festival as offering a “unique journey into the future of Gloucestershire’s festival scene,” featuring an eclectic and diverse line-up of performers. The main stage will be housed under cover inside a large circus marquee, complete with a bar, where all acts will perform.
In addition to bands, the festival will showcase a variety of cultural and performance arts, including belly dancers, Morris sides, Irish dancers, and drumming groups. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in numerous open mic sessions, providing a platform for self-expression.
Camping facilities will be available on-site, with showers provided to ensure comfort. A range of traders and vendors will also be present, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Paul explained, “Our festival’s name is inspired by the Roving Crows’ song ‘Days In The Sun’, which encourages us to live our dreams. This event is designed as a space where individuals and groups can truly shine in the arts.”
He added, “This is a dog-friendly event and a safe haven for artists of all ages and abilities. Our second venue hosts open music sessions, offering musicians a chance to express themselves, showcase their talents, and connect with fellow music enthusiasts.”
With more than 20 years' experience curating and managing events, Caitlin and Paul have shaped their vision into this bespoke festival.
“Whether you are an artist, a potential artist, or simply a lover of the arts, Days In The Sun offers a growing community of like-minded people to share thoughts, feelings, creations, and ambitions,” Paul said.
The line-up boasts renowned Scottish folk-rock band Skipinnish, famous for their hit “Walking on the Waves,” which has amassed over three million views on YouTube and more than ten million plays on Spotify. Other acts include PerKelt, Roving Crows, Babajack, Rusty Shackle, The Dolmen, and Dub Catalyst.
Ticket prices are set at £40 for an adult day pass, or £80 for a full weekend ticket. Camping incurs an additional fee of £10 per tent or £30 for campervans for those choosing to stay on-site. Children aged five to 17 pay £15 for a day ticket or £30 for the full weekend, while under-fives can attend free of charge.
This new festival promises to be a charming addition to Gloucestershire’s vibrant music scene, blending traditional folk customs with inclusive community spirit and artistic diversity.