The Ashford Festival returns, championing local talent and community spirit

After a brief hiatus, The Ashford Festival has announced its return, with the festival taking over Civic Park on Saturday, July 5th and Sunday, July 6th.

This beloved grassroots music festival, deeply rooted in its community values, promises a weekend of local talent, vibrant market stalls and a renewed commitment to supporting Ashford.

The Ashford Festival remains dedicated to its original mission: fostering local talent and bolstering local businesses.

Attendees can explore a diverse marketplace showcasing the best of Ashford's entrepreneurial spirit, while the main stage will feature a stellar lineup of homegrown musical acts, highlighting the rich artistic talent within the community.

In a move to ensure the festival's long-term sustainability and continued community benefit, the organisers have implemented a £1 weekend wristband.

This nominal fee will directly support the festival's new status as a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC), helping to cover essential costs and ensuring the event remains accessible for everyone. Wristbands are available for purchase now via the official website.

"We are incredibly excited to bring The Ashford Festival back to Civic Park," says Verne Seager, an original founder of The Ashford Festival in The Park. "This festival has always been about celebrating our community and this year, we're more committed than ever to showcasing the amazing talent and businesses right here in Ashford.

"The £1 wristband is a small contribution that will make a big difference in ensuring we can continue to offer this unique event for years to come."

Sam Griffin added, "The return of The Ashford Festival in the Park is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of the Ashford community.

"We've worked hard to create an event that is not only entertaining but also truly impactful, providing a platform for local artists and a boost for local commerce."

Run entirely by a passionate team of volunteers, The Ashford Festival in the Park stands as the only field-based, community-led music festival within Ashford's event calendar.

Its return marks a significant moment for the town, offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and celebrate local culture.

The festival is proudly supported by QMT Commercial Insurance and Ashford Borough Council.