Review of Boomtown Fair 2024

Written for Wessex Student Magazine

Boomtown Fair 2024: where the atmosphere is as eclectic as the outfits and the only thing more colourful than the scenery is the array of antics you will inevitably find yourself tangled in. Picture this: a carnival of chaos that somehow balances on the fine line between “What did I just witness?” and “Can we do it all over again?”

Arrival

Let us start with the entrance. After a scenic drive that seems to stretch on forever, you finally arrive at the festival gates. If you are expecting a simple check-in, think again. Here, you can queue for a long time, and security were a bit hit and miss, most were really friendly and professional, others a little intimidating and rude. But once through the check points, you are greeted by a mix of fairies, aliens, pirates, and some fantastic historical figures. Welcome to Boomtown, where every cosplay enthusiast is living their best life.

The Stages and Sounds

Once inside, it is like stepping into a parallel universe where every genre of music is given its own themed world. From a stage that looks like it was pulled straight from a steampunk fever dream to a dance floor that feels like you have walked into a rave at Willy Wonka’s factory, the diversity of sound is unmatched.

Something to Consider (and Taste)

Now, let us talk food. If you are a fan of culinary adventures, prepare your taste buds for a wild ride. There were food stalls ranging from gourmet vegan sushi to comforting hot toasties. Loads to choose from all over the festival site.

The People-Watching Paradise

The people-watching at Boomtown is an art form unto itself. You’ll encounter an array of characters: the sheer effort of attendees is phenomenal and quite literally anything goes. There was a real loving sense of inclusion, no matter what the costume, there was always a smile and someone to stop and chat to.

Workshops

Amid the madness, you will find workshops that range from hula-hooping to yoga, meditation and mindfulness, which given the high pace of the festival is actually quite amazing, and definitely something to feel safe in if you’re ever feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Night-time antics

As the sun sets, Boomtown transforms into a glittering, glowing post apocalyptic fairytale land of infinite possibilities. The night-time arenas are legendary. Sights, sounds, smells absolutely everywhere. Do take care using the toilets at night though, and you might want to have your own supply of wipes and tissues to freshen up. The toilet areas really could’ve used some extra care after dark, although the composting toilets are a great idea.

Headline acts

Boomtown is well known for hosting amazing acts, from huge household names to up and coming DJ’s and this year was no different. None other than Damian ‘Jr. Gong’ Marley had the huge crowd belting out his hits such as Nail Pon Cross and Welcome to Jamrock and his legendary Father Bob Marley’s anthems including Is this Love?

Final Thoughts

So, would I recommend Boomtown Fair? Absolutely! Be prepared for the unexpected and be open to embracing your inner weirdo. It is a place where the bizarre feels normal, laughter is constant, and your biggest dilemma will be which genre of music to get into.

Positive Points:

1. Diverse Lineup: This year’s lineup featured a wide array of genres, from electronic and reggae to folk and punk. Big-name headliners shared the stage with emerging artists, ensuring something for every musical taste.
2. Immersive Experience: Boomtown is renowned for its elaborate stages and themed areas. In 2024, the festival continued this tradition with stunning set designs and interactive art installations, creating a magical atmosphere that draws festival-goers into a unique world.
3. Community and Inclusivity: The festival promotes a strong sense of community, encouraging inclusivity and positivity among attendees. Many visitors noted the friendly atmosphere and willingness of staff and volunteers to help.
4. Variety of Activities: Beyond music, Boomtown offered workshops, performances, and late-night entertainment. From circus acts to wellness sessions, there was no shortage of things to do, making it a well-rounded experience.
5. Sustainability Efforts: The festival has made strides in promoting sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing waste and encouraging eco-friendly practices among attendees. This commitment was evident in recycling stations, litter pickers and the use of biodegradable materials.

Negative Points:

1. Crowd Management: Some attendees reported issues with crowd control, particularly during peak performance times. Overcrowding at certain stages led to discomfort and difficulties moving around the festival grounds.
2. Weather Challenges: While the festival’s location is beautiful, 2024 saw some unpredictable weather, with rain causing muddy conditions in some areas and the famous stairway up to Tribe of frog was closed at certain times. This made navigating the grounds challenging for some, impacting the overall experience. And it gets chilly at night so be sure to pack an extra layer.
3. Pricing Concerns: Ticket and food prices were considered high by some attendees. While the quality of food and drinks was generally praised, the costs may deter budget-conscious festival-goers.
4. Sound Quality Issues: A few performances experienced sound quality issues, particularly during high-energy acts. This detracted from the overall enjoyment of some sets, leaving fans wanting a better audio experience.
5. Accessibility Issues: Although there were efforts to improve accessibility, some attendees noted that certain areas were still challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues. Continued improvements in this area would benefit the festival’s inclusivity.

Conclusion: Boomtown Festival 2024 was a vibrant celebration of music, art, and community spirit, showcasing a diverse line-up and immersive experiences. While there were challenges related to crowd management and weather, the festival’s overall atmosphere and commitment to sustainability make it a standout event in the festival calendar. For those seeking a unique festival experience filled with fun, eclectic creativity and beautiful connection, Boomtown remains a compelling choice. If you are looking for a festival that will leave you breathless, bewildered, and maybe just a little bit more bizarre than when you arrived, mark your calendar for Boomtown Fair 2025. I know I will—if I can find my way back to reality first!