It’s been a troubling year for the UK festival scene. In May, The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) revealed the cancellation of 40 festivals this summer, with many more likely to disappear. The effects of Covid-19 and rising operational costs led to an announcement from Hertfordshire-based festival El Dorado (founded in 2016) in July, with organisers citing rising costs alongside a heartbroken message.

For other emerging festivals, it has been an equally tricky road to navigate. Prior to last weekend, few people had heard of the independent festival Brockwood, founded in 2021 with the aim to unite the lonely and to celebrate freedom, raising money for MIND charity. However in a year where the music industry faces unprecedented challenges, Brockwood Festival emerged as a standout newcomer that captured the essence of a true music experience with a stellar lineup, and standout collaborations. Partnering with advocacy group Save Our Scene, the festival showcased resilience and innovation, setting a new standard in the UK festival circuit. Amidst the chaos of the outside world, the festival fostered an atmosphere of positivity and unity, drawing an exceptional crowd eager to embrace the festival’s ethos of community. The intimate setting hosted three distinct stages—the meticulously crafted Main Stage, the atmospheric Wood Shack, and the late-night party haven of Lab 54’s Kitchen—providing a diverse sonic landscape that catered to a variety of tastes.

The festival’s identity was marked by incredible artists performing in an intimate environment, dynamic collaborations and seamless experiences. The Wood Shack, transformed by Save Our Scene, became the epicentre of Friday night’s revelry with an electrifying secret b2b set from rising-stars Badger and Messie. Self-described house party professionals Lab 54 accessorised the kitchen tent with pans, Kelloggs, and loaves of bread, and saw emerging talent including Surya Sen, Duke Bora, and Oscar Farrell ignite the stage, plus an arsenal of their own talent.

Musically, TIBASKO’s takeover of the Wood Shack on Saturday elevated the energy with their new IsoTHERMAL brand release, featuring a kaleidoscope of handpicked DJs who kept the forest dance floor pulsating. Mas Que Nada Brothers set the tone of the day, with London-based producer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Kiimi continuing the high energy into the evening. Echoes of “It’s Coming Home” could be heard emerging from the Wood Shack later that night for TIBASKO’s closer (this duo’s set was not one to miss). An impromptu TIBASKO b2b with Mas Que Nada Brothers emerged as another festival highlight and the only disappointment was the stage closing at 10pm.

Saturday daytime witnessed the debut live performance of producer and songwriter Ben Stancombe, whose versatile mastery across guitar, keyboard, and mixing drew an impressive crowd to the Main Stage. The musical journey paved the way for Catching Cairo’s live set—a mesmerising fusion of soulful tones, feminist narratives, and unapologetic confidence that resonated deeply within Brockwood’s vibrant tapestry of sounds.

The energy soared higher with Dubwise MC GARDNA’s electrifying live performance, culminating in the explosive anthem “R.A.V.E.A.S.A.P”. Electronic duo Prospa brought their signature euphoria-inducing beats to the stage, unleashing crowd favourites including their 2020 single ‘Ecstasy (Over & Over)’, and the Main Stage reached its zenith with Ross From Friends delivering a captivating finale to an unforgettable day of music and harmony.

It wasn’t just the music that captured the hearts of festival-goers. Memorable moments abounded throughout the festival: @Fuji_boys captured candid moments on Fuji polaroids, spreading joy and mementos among attendees, the custom upcycling t-shirt pressing by UTshirt was a successful touch, where festival-goers could donate as they saw fit—a true embodiment of camaraderie and community spirit. Tipsy art classes and yoga kicked off Saturday, setting a lively and inclusive atmosphere for newcomers joining the festivities. A lack of bar and toilet queues made the whole experience seamless (especially after Glastonbury) and there was a sense of freedom that echoed throughout.

The true essence of Brockwood Festival resonated deeply when attendees welcomed an 80-year-old gentleman into the Brockwood Family. His lifelong dream of attending a festival, sparked after his wife’s passing, was finally realised. Reflecting on the experience, he expressed admiration for our generation’s spirit and was grateful to be a part of it. Brockwood has unquestionably cemented its place as a trailblazer, leaving us eagerly awaiting the unfolding of its next chapter.