Wickham Festival faces an almost impossible challenge – how to top our best ever event!
With record crowds flocking to see the likes of Kiefer Sutherland and Frank Turner, organisers know it will be a tough task to surpass such a successful weekend.
But they are determined to continue growing the hugely popular event in the picturesque Hampshire village while still retaining the unique relaxed atmosphere.
Organiser Peter Chegwyn said: “It was a fabulous weekend, our best event yet. But that gives us the problem of how on earth do we top it?
“But it is a very nice dilemma to have and we will definitely be looking to make it even better – although it will be tough!
“We had our best ever sales with Sunday a complete sell-out and the other three days very close. We had our strongest ever line-up and we have had record renewals with hundreds already taking advantage of the Earlybird discounts to book for next year.
“Although they don’t know the line-up, they know it will be strong and they know our very special chilled vibe will be the same as ever.
“Many of this year’s artists have already asked if they can come back and that shows just what a special event this is. They love playing here because of the friendly welcome they get from all the staff and from the fans.
“It shows just what a special event this is that so many singers are now approaching us rather than the other way round.
“It is now firmly established as one of the most popular events on the circuit and although we may grow it slightly – and are always looking at ways of making it even better – we have no desire to be another Glastonbury. Our atmosphere is our big selling point and we won’t do anything to risk compromising that.
“It was wonderful to see the site full and everyone going round with big smiles on their faces, which is why we do this. We have had fantastic feedback from visitors and of course it has been great for local businesses as the festival really benefits the village.”
There was something for everyone with music legends such as Judy Collins, Graham Nash and Lucinda Williams mixed with evergreen stars like Gilbert O’Sullivan, Lindisfarne and Ralph McTell as well as big bands such as Level 42 and The Proclaimers.
Chegwyn added: “They all responded to the fans and really put a lot into their shows. The reaction was fantastic across all four days.
“Frank Turner’s performance was amazing. We have been after him for years and were finally able to make it happen. It was definitely worth the wait. He was a really nice guy and we would have him back in a heartbeat.
“Mark King of Level 42 loved the event and said they would love to come back as did American guitarist Stanley Jordan. It is lovely when big stars say what a wonderful festival it is. Now the planning starts for next year.”
Fans who return the forms given out at the festival or book before August 15 can save up to £70 on a weekend ticket as well be entered into our competition to win a very special signed t-shirt. Prices will increase on 1st Setember 2019. Please vists our tickets page here.
