After 26 years of creating musical memories, Nozstock: The Hidden Valley will bid farewell with its final festival this July at Rowden Paddocks in Bromyard.
What began as a humble barbecue event on the Nosworthy family farm in 1998 swiftly blossomed into the cherished family-friendly festival we know today, captivating audiences for nearly three decades. As 2024 marks the culmination of this remarkable journey, the organising team pledges a finale like no other, ensuring this cornerstone of the industry receives the grand send-off it deserves.
Â
True to form, the lineup boasts an eclectic ensemble of over 450 musicians, performers, and comedians. From renowned headliners like Andy C, Groove Armada, Boney M, and Arrested Development to personal favourites such as 24HR Garage Girls, as well as Badger, who has recently collaborated with Natasha Bedingfield to bring an electronic twist to her enduring classic These Words.
Â
Although the Nozstock team proudly went ahead with the 2023 festival despite financial setbacks, the lingering effects of the pandemic on entertainment events, compounded by the escalating cost of living crisis, have doubled the financial burden of hosting the festival.
Reluctant to burden patrons with doubled ticket prices, the team has made the poignant decision to bid farewell at the pinnacle of its success, marking this year's event as a poignant "Last Saloon."
Â
Recent years have seen numerous independent festivals close their gates for the final time. The addition of Nozstock to this lengthy list of losses to the industry has prompted the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) to call on the government once again to review VAT on festival ticket sales amidst the ongoing financial strains for businesses and patrons alike.
Â
Nevertheless, the Nosworthy family have emphasised this is not the end of Nozstock and are already brainstorming future events in different formats. Stemming from an eco-friendly festival that blends numerous genres, as well as activities, comedy shows, spoken word performances, circus acts, visual arts installations, workshops and more, these future instalments promise to recapture the magic of Nozstock, reuniting the vibrant community for more unforgettable experiences.
Â
Nozstock: The Hidden Valley 2024 will be on the 18th - 21st July. For more information visit https://nozstock.com/.
Â
Abi Kara-Fernandes
Edited by Natalie Howarth
Featured Image from Nozstock The Hidden Valley via Facebook. No changes were made to this image.
In-article Image courtesy of Nozstock The Hidden Valley via Facebook. No changes were made to this image.