Why Bestival is more than just a festival
BLOCK ROCKIN’ BEATS
The line-up is as eclectic as it is strong this year. From the minimalistic sounds of The XX, hip-hop pioneers A Tribe Called Quest and singer-songwriter Jamie T to the legendary Pet Shop Boys (with a back catalogue spanning more than three decades, guaranteed to put on a show).
Speaking of showmanship, Dizzee Rascal remains a tour de force, while the uber-talented Rag ‘n’ Bone Man will belt out his anthemic tunes in his smoky, soulful way.
And if you’re looking for something different, check out Kurupt FM, straight from hit BBC comedy mockumentary People Just Do Nothing.
EMBRACE THE BIZARRE
There are few things that sum up the Bestival vibe better than the giant Love-Bot. This colossal cyber-softy, standing eight metres tall and weighing in at a cuddly four tonnes, is powered by positive vibes. Fitted with love-detectors, the bionic beauty comes to life, spreading love and joy, whenever it detects positive emotions and affection. Seeing really is believing.
We’d also recommend Lost in the Woods to unleash your creativity. These mind-expanding paint parties will see you express yourself on canvas, trees or, if you prefer, other people. Find your inner abstract impressionist and the office will feel like a million miles away.
FABULOUS FOOD
Foodies rejoice! The Bestival organisers take pride in the quality of the food on offer, with every culinary delight you could hope for at The Feast Collective. This giant tent boasts street food, producers and a range of chefs to ensure every taste is catered for.
Bestival is also a haven for cocktail-lovers, thanks to the Sugar Skulls Cocktail Bus, straight from the heart of Mexico’s fiesta. La Calavera Catrina serves cocktails while DJs spin records, making this one of the places to hang out.
BIGGEST AND BEST
Superlatives are commonplace when talking about Bestival, but three in particular stand out this year. First, the world’s biggest confetti cannon to shower everyone in glorious colours; then, there’s the world’s largest mirrorball (it’s three storeys high at 10.33 metres and covered in 2,500 mirrored tiles). Last, but by no means least, the world’s biggest bouncy castle. Filled with 1,143 cubic metres of air it can comfortably accommodate 100 festivalgoers at one time! Bouncetastic!
A BALANCED WEEKEND
Nothing is more fun than partying late into the night, but make sure you relax, too
Going to a festival doesn’t have to leave you worn out and good for nothing when you get home. It can be a time to enjoy some pampering. Visit the Slow Motion area, brought to you by award-winning Balance magazine, and you’ll be able to refresh your physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing in one stunning arena located deep within Bestival’s wonderland. There’s invigorating yoga, wild runs, relaxing hot tubs, euphoric spin class raves and much more. Slow Motion is a republic of contentment.
FESTIVAL SURVIVAL PRODUCTS
1. Phizz rehydration + vitamins and minerals, £7.99, Phizz
2. Kånken No. 2 backpack with sitting pad, £105, Fjallraven
3. Unisex herbal deodorant, 50ml, £23, Aesop
4. Women’s original short wellington boots, £75, Hunter Boots
5. Silk eye mask, £25, Catherine And Jean
6. Protein Boost drink, 310ml, £1.29, find us in your local shop
Read more: Win two weekend Bestival tickets with backstage passes