In light of the current situation with the global COVID-19 pandemic, Boomtown Fair has announced that it will no longer be proceeding with the 2020 event. The next instalment of the unique, creative festival will now take place on 11th-15th August 2021.
Boomtown was due to return to the Matterley Estate, nr Winchester over 12th -16th August 2020 for it’s twelfth instalment, but much like many other events across the country the event organisers have come to the difficult decision to no longer continue. In their statement released on Thursday 30th April 2020, the event states:
“Over the past few months we have been keeping a close eye on expert advice from within the UK and across the globe, as well as taking into consideration the timelines involved for safely planning and delivering the event. In addition, we’ve recently been in close consultation with our local partner agencies, and emergency services, to further understand the knock on effect of the current pressures on these vital services. This has led us to the decision that Boomtown 2020 can no longer go ahead.”
The festival has confirmed that all customers 2020 tickets will remain valid for the 2021 event and will automatically roll over. The event is asking their customers who are in a position to do so, to keep their ticket for next year, or to hold off on requesting a refund for as long as is possible to help safeguard the future of the festival.
As is the case with many of the UK independent festivals, the financial and long lasting impact of COVID-19 will have on the festival industry and creative communities as a whole could be incredibly devastating. Without the support of those who love and cherish the events, the UK festival calendar could look very different next year. All ticketing and refund information can be found in the full statement here.
Speaking on behalf of nearly 50 friends and colleagues working all year round, we are truly heartbroken to make this announcement, but with such a complex production and many, many thousands of staff to mobilise, we are certain this is the right thing to do. With the new circus shows, areas and creative concepts planned, this year was building up to be the best edition yet, but like many others across the world, we have to now wind down in preparation for a fallow year. We will however be using this gifted time to fully reflect, learn and reimagine our vision to guarantee the next chapter of Boomtown will be more breathtaking than ever before. Stay safe – all the love. Lak Mitchell – Boomtown Co-Founder
Boomtown has always been, and continues to remain, a truly independent festival that has grown from just 1,000 capacity in 2009 to 66,000 from 2016. It is known for celebrating and fostering grassroot talent, showcasing music and creative performances on a gargantuan scale and has become recognised for challenging and breaking the boundaries of creativity within the UK festival scene. Its unique festival experience will continue to move forward, adapt and develop as the event evolves for all that 2021 holds.
For all current information relating to COVID-19 and to keep up to date with all the Boomtown news follow the festival’s social media channels Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube, official website, and sign up to our mailing list here.
