Preview: Leeds Festival

Here it comes again... the end of festival season dawns on us and the sound of autumn is calling. But, not before the finale of the summer blesses us with three (and a bit) huge days of music, and hopefully some remaining sunshine. This August bank holiday weekend (and the one last year, and hopefully the one next year), 21st-24th, Leeds Festival is back and bigger than ever!

With an extended weekend absolutely jam-packed with massive names from a variety of genres, from Travis Scott and D-Block Europe to Hozier, Chappell Roan to Bring me the Horizon and Limp Bizkit, the main stage is set to showcase some incredible stuff, whatever it is that gets your toes tapping (or head banging). Across the three days, some more big names like Suki Waterhouse, The Kooks, Wallows and Royal Otis will be sure to satisfy all of your indie needs, whilst Amyl and the Sniffers, Wunderhorse, Soft Play and Enter Shikari will showcase raw emotion, some rhythmic anger and a bit of musical catharsis. Whether its EDM that takes your fancy, or you are more inclined to some heart-wrenching pop on a Saturday afternoon, Leeds has it all. As always, Leeds acts as a fantastic platform for emerging artists with 6 stages across the main arena (not to mention the BBC Radio 1 dance stage). The BBC introducing stage is a favourite of mine, and I will for sure be a frequent visitor across the days!

It's not just the music that's sure to capture your attention, but comedy, late night DJs, and even a silent rave (you can book your tickets for the this here). As a Leeds Festival veteran, I can speak from experience that the arena is always full of energy, with a huge selection of fair rides, food and drinks available throughout the weekend. As probably the biggest festival I've ever been to, I would definitely recommend bringing some comfortable walking shoes, a re-usable water bottle and (after the weather we had last year) plenty of tent pegs!!

This year at Leeds festival offers so many changes from previous years, with more activities available within the camping area than ever before. With a new campsite arrangement for this year, Leeds has vamped up it's accommodation options with five new camping fields, with something to offer for whatever vibe you're looking for. The Fields, The Garden, The Meadow, The Grove and The Valley.

The Fields will offer lively vibes, with a football pitch, pop-up performances and some serious festival spirit. The Garden will replace the quiet camp, offering a tranquil space that promotes peace and quiet after 1am, offering meditation, yoga and even the first-ever Leeds Festival run club! The Meadow is for all of the green-minded campers, with a pledge to recycle well and leave no trace; with upcycling workshops, clothes swaps and talks, there is loads to get involved with! The Glitterball Grove promotes inclusivity and comfort, collaborating with Safer Spaces Now CIC; this inclusive and respectful space will include karaoke, open-mic sessions and film screenings! Last, but certainly not least, The Valley is a secure and social spot for solo/pair campers, encouraging festival camaraderie through a 'Link Up Lounge'! Camping tickets need to be pre-ordered, though they are a free addition to your ticket! They can be ordered here. But, as usual, if there's only one or two days that truly take your fancy, day tickets are also available!

You can check out the full line-up here:

If you're eager for a last minute ticket, there are still a few left here! Or, you can try your luck with Ticketmaster resale. Remember to pre-order your silent disco tickets and car parking through the Leeds Festival website!

Now, I've said it before and I'll say it again... whether you're a critic or a loyal fan, Leeds festival really does consistently have something to offer everyone, and this year will be no different. I hope to see you in the field, don't forget your bucket hat and remember to leave no trace!

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Edited by Bethany Coldwell

Image courtesy of Leeds Festival via the Official Rockstar Energy presents Leeds and Reading Website