Features / Shindig
Shindig Festival: Fun for all the family
Shindig Festival has been a major part of the Somerset music scene for almost 10 years. Taking place 25th to 28th May, the festival is now in its 9th year.
With humble beginnings as a music label and a run of local events, the festival grew over time and is now based in Dillington Estate in Ilminster with 12500 party-goers in attendance and eight stages.
“We tend to have summer where we debrief from last year and then we start thinking about the lineup in September,” Simon Clarke, event director of Shindig tells us. With so much going on, it’s no surprise that they begin their plans so far in advance.
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The festival prides itself on being family friendly which is something that has been set out from the beginning.
“We want people to bring kids because it creates a brilliant atmosphere,” Simon explains. “We’ve all got kids, all the directors have kids, so we need to cater for ourselves as well!”
The event boasts a kids area, cinema, theatre and promises that headliners won’t be performing late so the whole family can enjoy them. This means that everyone can be singing along to We Are Family!
Kathy Sledge will be headlining this year’s event. photo: Shindig Festival
Each year, Shindig curates a fancy dress theme and this year’s theme is Mad Hatter! “We know people that like to get involved with a parade, our crowd gets very excited about the dress up!” Simon tells us.
“They start planning it early so we announced it in January and now they’ll be planning what outfits they’re going to wear ready for May.”
The weekend event aims to be as accessible and as safe as possible.
“All of our security and stewards are highly trained in safeguarding and we have a tarmac road for disabled access, along with charging stations for mobility scooters, viewing platforms and accessible and inclusive toilet facilities.”
DJ sets and live performances, the weekend is fun for all. photo: Shindig Festival
2024 brings with it Shindig’s 10th anniversary, have they started planning it yet? “No, not quite,” Simon laughs.
“We’ve actually got a term licence this year, and then we’ll have a slightly bigger one next year so the big 10 year celebration will be with a few more people!”
Main photo: courtesy of Shindig Festival
Read next:
- Shindig Festival announces lineup for 2023
- Review: Shindig Festival, Dillington Estate – ‘A vibrant sun drenched and artfully soundtracked weekend’
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