The Big Tribute Festival, Aberystwyth
Fri 25 – Sun 27 Aug
It’s been 10 years since my last festival and, with only hazy memories of portaloo problems and the sound of something that definitely wasn’t rain coming down on my tent, I felt I was ready to give them another go. The Big Tribute Festival in Aberystwyth was reasonably priced and family friendly, offering tickets for camping for the 3-day event (£60), or just attending with day tickets (£30) as well as cheaper tickets for youngsters and plenty for them to get involved with.
Aside from the main tent, there was the generously sized drinks tent where local bands played during the set-up time for the main acts so there was always something to listen to. There were also areas specifically for children, like the mini-moshers marquee, as well as a sports area that included a bouncy castle and trampolines. Prizes for the best costumes were also dished out for several categories. One of the nicest things about this festival has to be the beautiful setting: there was something truly sublime watching the sheep graze on the hill while Vicky Jackson as Pink! belted out anthems. The tribute artists all did themselves (and the acts they were paying tribute to) proud: a variety of genres of music were covered, from the Antarctic Monkeys (Arctic Monkeys) to The Boss UK (Bruce Springsteen), ensuring that there was something for everyone.
The energy from the acts was maintained all through the day and into the night and, as the sky changed colour and the stars came out, so did the glow sticks. The line-up for the whole weekend was incredible, so even though I only got a Saturday ticket, I thoroughly recommend this as an alternative to the more pricey festivals. If you’re looking for something a bit different that you can bring the whole family along to, then definitely consider this one. I’ll be getting my early bird ticket for the whole weekend in 2018.
words LUCY MENON