Thousands of revellers are expected to descend on the town next week as Basingstoke Live returns for its fourth year. The free music festival kicks off in War Memorial Park and showcases a variety of local music, art, drama and dance catering for all tastes and young and old alike.
In the first year an estimated 5,000 people attended the two-day event and this tripled to an estimated 15,000 last year, with even more people expected this year.
There are four stages pumping out everything from reggae and funk to northern soul. Laurence Hoare, who runs 100% Music – who have their own stage at the event - champions local music in the town.
He told the Observer: “I don’t know anywhere else that runs this event, not even in London. It really has something for everyone.
“If you like music, dance, or just taking your children to a family-friendly place it really does cover all the bases. I have no doubt that this will be the best one yet.”
The festival is funded by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council and the bands playing are supplied by Drum Runners Trading.
Cabinet Member for Housing, Health and Culture Cllr Cathy Osselton said: “Basingstoke Live has gone from strength to strength and this year we are looking forward to holding the most successful and enjoyable festival yet.
"With such a mix of music, art and dance played across the weekend from rock to pop and funk to DJs, there will be something to appeal to everyone’s taste.”
Headline acts this year are up-and-coming pop band, Lucky Soul, and DMC World Champion DJs, Scratch Perverts who will be playing this weekend at the well-established Wakestock Festival in North-West Wales along with acts such as Maximo Park, The Ting Tings, Eric Prydz, Chase & Status and N-Dubz.
They were also due to perform at Winchester’s Glade Festival on Thursday July 15 which was cancelled.
