The countdown begins for the inaugural edition of FORWARDS festival coming to Durdham Down this weekend. The forward-thinking music and politics festival replaces the Downs Festival this year.
Organisers have prepared a hugely impressive programme of artists and speakers for its opening year on September 3 and 4. There is also plenty of fun planned for families with a Kids Area suitable for those under 18.
Here's all you need to know about the different areas on-site and a full map of the festival arena:
Don't miss: Everything you need to know about FORWARDS festivalEntrance
Entrance
The entrance to the festival on Durdham Down is accessible via Circular Road and Rockleaze. The ticket box office is situated to the right of the entrance just before you enter the festival arena.
Areas
There are two music stages on either side of FORWARDS offering a fantastic roster of artists across the two days. Stage 1 and Stage 2 operate on alternate set timings meaning there will not be two artists performing at the same.
FORWARDS will also have the Information Area hosting a fascinating programme of talks, panels and discussions. You can see the full line-up here.
Set times are as follows:
Kids area
The festival has a dedicated kids area at the festival, featuring magic shows, theatre, ball pool, arts and crafts, music plus a lot more - there really is something for the whole family.
There will be a kids' open mic too, for ages 10-18, sign up is on the day and located at the Access Creative College workshop tent. There are instruments available to use, however, if they are a singer and don't play an instrument, performers are asked to bring their backing music on a USB. Performances will take place on the bandstand from 4.30pm.
Welfare & medical
The festival has an equipped Medical Centre on site that will have fully qualified staff. The festival advises if you suspect somebody is unwell take them to the Medical Tent and in severe cases where they are not moving to do not attempt to move the individual. Alert a steward immediately who will call for the exact help needed.
If you take any medication regularly remember to bring it with you and make your friends aware of any illness or allergies you may have. Look after yourself and those around you.
The Welfare Tent is located right next to the Medical Centre. If you need to grab a quiet five minutes or just want someone to talk to, the Welfare Tent provides a safe and non-judgmental space to do this.
Toilets
There are three different areas equipped with toilets and water refill points. One of the lefthand side at the entrance, one in between both of the food stalls in between the two-stage areas.
Map of festival arena
Forwards Festival comes to Durdham Downs on September 3 and 4, 2022
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