Wickham Festival News

Day 2 – review

The Wickham Festival went to a whole new level on Friday – Level 42 to be exact.

Mark King of Level 42

The jazz-funk fusion band was a slight change of direction but proved hugely popular with the crowd dancing in front of the Valley Stage.

Isle of Wight lead singer Mark King set the tempo with an upbeat performance making it clear just how much he loves the event as he reeled off the band’s hits.

The set followed on perfectly from the incredibly talented jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan who gave a masterclass in the instrument as well as showing he is a supremely accomplished pianist.Stanley Jordan

With his trademark style of tapping two-handed, this virtuoso musician from Chicago held the crowd spellbound in wonder at his technique and speed of hand movement.

Over on the Village Stage, there was a reggae party going on – again showing the diversity on offer at this unique event.

The Spooky Men’s Chorale

Baka Beyond got things going with an energetic set following on 3 Daft Monkeys who made their slot with minutes to spare after a nightmare journey.

And Dreadzone brought the evening to a pulsating close to a rousing reception from a big crowd.

Baka Beyond

With the Spooky Men’s Chorale bringing their own unique brand of madness and Gordon Haskell showing why he is still one of the best around, this was another day to treasure.

But Saturday looks set to surpass it with Wessex Boy Frank Turner headlining on the Valley Stage preceded by evergreen Wickham favourites The Men They Couldn’t Hang, Grace Petrie, Dervish and the wonderful Cara Dillon.

On the Village Stage, Afro Celt Sound System will be beating out their dhol drums after Elephant sessions and Holy Moly & the Crackers.

With two other stages, plenty of good food and drink, craft stalls and free entertainment for children, it promises to be a fantastic family day out. A Few day tickets remain but will go fast with the day likely to sell out.

These can be bought at the box office, cash only and subject to availability. The box office is also accepting applications (cash and cheques) for next year offering a saving of up to £80 on a weekend ticket.

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  • Facebook Posts

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    Congratulations to Flook on winning the Gradam Ceoil TG4 Award 2025! This prestigious award highlights their remarkable contributions to Ireland's traditional music heritage. You can see Flook at the Wickham Festival on Friday 1st August. Day & Weekend tickets now onsale via www.wickhamfestival.co.uk/tickets
    www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFWwf-dMles&t=7s
    ... See MoreSee Less

    2 days ago

    3 CommentsComment on Facebook

    It's great, but I have a question, why do flute players often stand on one leg ? Is it just because they can ?

    I’d do a similar thing if you’d book me I guess I’m the leader of the uninvited

    They have a string attached to bellows on their back, gives the lungs a 'breather'..

    Were delighted to say The Twisted Tearooms will be back at Wickham this summer.  And weve some wonderful new food & drink offerings along with all your Wickham favourites.

    We're delighted to say The Twisted Tearooms will be back at Wickham this summer. And we've some wonderful new food & drink offerings along with all your Wickham favourites. ... See MoreSee Less

    3 days ago

    13 CommentsComment on Facebook

    Will you be having the on stage interviews as per last year ? Nicky Horne / Fred Dinnage

    Just bring plenty of that Dorset apple cake! 😋 It wouldn't be Wickham without you.

    Always enjoy the cakes and music there!

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    Our Twitter Feed

    The ever-popular Phil Beer will be appearing solo at #WickhamFestival on Sun. 3rd Aug. as well as joining with Reg Meuross, Marion Fleetwood & Geraint Watkins to perform 'Fire and Dust: A Woody Guthrie Story'

    Huzzah for @festivalwickham and Saturday 2nd August and another mighty HUZZAH for it is a particular favourite of ours, do thoroughly deserving of thrice Huzzah! http://Www.wickhamfestival.co.uk for tickets!! See you there. Is there time for one more Huzzah?

    We've updated the 'Line-Up' pages of our website to show who's playing (so far!) on which day. You can also view artist biogs & videos by clicking on artist photos. https://www.wickhamfestival.co.uk/line-up/

    The wonderful singer-songwriter @NewtonFaulkner will make his #WickhamFestival debut on Friday, 1st Aug. Same day as @Fishy_Friends, @TaliskMusic, @FlookQuartet and many others.

    Another band confirmed! Legendary Geordie folk-rockers @lindisfarneband will headline the opening night of #WickhamFestival on Thursday 31 July.

    More artists confirmed! @IanProwse and Amsterdam will be at this year's #WickhamFestival on Sunday 3rd August. Ian toured with Elvis Costello last year and is touring with Levellers this Spring.