Introduction to Forwards Festival
The festival season is in full swing in the west with Bristol’s Forwards Festival, organized by the team behind Love Saves The Day. This relatively new event started in 2022 and has a big focus on information and conversations in addition to music. Around 60,000 people are expected to attend the festival over the weekend, offering international artists such as Doechii, Barry Can’t Swim, and Ezra Collective, as well as some of the best emerging acts from the West.
Where and When is the Festival?
The festival will take place on Saturday and Sunday of the holiday weekend in Durdham Downs (The Downs) in Clifton. It’s easily accessible by public transport, and a special shuttle bus will run all weekend.
Lineup and Performers
One of the biggest names performing at the festival is US rapper Doechii, who led the West Holts stage at this year’s Glastonbury. She will perform on Sunday alongside Jorja Smith, Olivia Dean, and headliner The Last Dinner Party. On Saturday, Scottish DJ and producer Barry Can’t Swim and Mercury Prize-winning band Ezra Collective will top the bill, accompanied by other notable acts such as Trusty People, Orbital, and English Teachers. Some of the best acts from the West will also take the stage, including Stroud’s Katy J Pearson, Bristol’s Ishmael Ensemble, and Ritual Orchestra, as well as Waldo’s Gift from Bristol.
What Else to Expect
In addition to the impressive music lineup, the festival has a big focus on its information area, with discussions on topics such as climate change, politics, and cultural currency. This year’s speakers include comedian Munya Chawawa, broadcaster Carol Vorderman, and MP Zarah Sultana.
Camping and Accommodation
Like many other city festivals, Forwards is not a camping festival. However, it’s easy to get to by public transport, and the special shuttle bus will run all weekend.
Tickets and Availability
Tickets for Sunday and the whole weekend are sold out, but you can still get tickets for Saturday.
Essential Information
Forwards is an accessible event, including an induction loop, British Sign Language interpreters, and a sensory breakout area. However, organizers have warned that the ground could be muddy if there’s extremely wet weather. Children are allowed but must be accompanied by a responsible adult, and those over four years old will need to buy a child or teen ticket. The festival is cashless, so you’ll need to pay for food and drinks on site using a card or phone.
