In late August this year, the only place to head for us is the South West. And we don’t mean Lambeth. Bristol calls us for a late summer boogie and breath of fresh air at Forwards. The self proclaimed “Music Festival for the Future”, knows exactly who they are and exactly what they want to deliver for their community, far and wide.
With a major focus on current issues and causes, the fabric of Forwards is rooted in conversation and connection. The Information stage hosts discussions, and smaller live sets. Right next door you’ll find a whole bunch of charity desks you can get chatting to, whether that’s for information or donation. Get educated and get involved in between shaking your booty. This corner of the festival is a wholesome and ethical haven in The Downs.
There’s all sorts going on at Forwards as you can see, the multifaceted festival is a crowdpleaser. Whether you’re bringing your baby (this one’s family friendly), or your babes, we’ve got the run down for 2025’s offering…
SATURDAY
MUST SEE…
Saturday see’s the premier of Forwards’ brand new dance tent, The Arches. Annie Mac will be gracing the decks there. If you’ve not had the chance to see her “Before Midnight” events, now’s your time to catch her.
Joining the electronic ranks of Saturday’s offering, Barry Can’t Swim and Confidence Man will be bringing the energy. Euphoric, nostalgia laced house, and sex injected eurotrashy tempos will be the soundtrack to your Saturday with these two.
DON’T MISS…
If you’re looking for something on a bit of different wavelength, English Teacher and Happy Mondays will be playing their respective rock anthems. Whatever festival feeling you’re after – you’re sure to be satisfied. Let’s see who can keep up with Sean Ryder on a Saturday evening…
Absolute kings of the festival circuit, Ezra Collective will be bringing the SUNSHIIINE on the first day. We can’t quite capture just how brilliant this group are, any stage they hit up is sure to be lit up with their ferociously optimistic energy. Anyone who’s caught them elsewhere will know they are always a highlight. We’ve never found a jazz quintet so hot.
SUNDAY
MUST SEE
Sunday is staaacked, and specifically piled high with female creative power. Doechii, Jorja Smith and Olivia Dean (name a better trio, we’ll wait) are bringing goddess energy. These 3 are forces to be reckoned with, blowing up the industry with their artistry this year. Whatever sonic flavour you fancy, we’ll be catching each of these ladies, to basque in their splendour.
DON’T MISS
How else would you choose to spend a festival Sunday in Bristol, than under the command of Jungle trailblazer, LTJ Bukem. When in Rome…
Forwards will always celebrate local talents, this year inviting back Smith & Mighty Soundsysten, plus a special guest. Miss Mash will also be making her debut, another local, this up and comer promises to please and prove why she’s got that stage. Team Love who are festival producers, make it their mission to spotlight local talents. As they bloody should <3
Another recent announcement on the roster this year, Pa Salieu will be playing. On top of the UK Rap game, blending his Gambian heritage and Midlands roots. Bristol will play his stage on Sunday. Annie Mac’s been one of his biggest supporters for a while, so it’s a cuteness these two can share the weekend.