Review: Farewell to the 60th and Final Towersey Festival 2024
We simply couldn’t let the opportunity pass without attending the 60th and final Towersey Festival, a beloved event that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of so many. After hearing countless glowing reviews from our readers, we arrived on Saturday morning, unsure of exactly what to expect but filled with anticipation. From the moment we stepped onto the festival grounds, it was clear why Towersey has meant so much to so many people over the years. The sense of community, the vibrant atmosphere, and the overwhelming warmth that radiated from every corner of the festival surpassed our highest expectations.
The 60th and final Towersey Festival was a bittersweet yet unforgettable celebration of music, community, and tradition. This year’s line-up was a dream come true for folk enthusiasts, featuring performances by legends such as Billy Bragg, Seth Lakeman, and Oysterband, alongside the mesmerising harmonies of The Staves. A standout moment was the London African Gospel Choir’s reimagining of Paul Simon’s Graceland. Their soulful reinterpretation, blending rich African rhythms with powerful vocals, breathed new life into the iconic album, captivating the audience from start to finish.
Billy Bragg, a festival favourite, was a cornerstone of the event, delivering a powerful, politically charged set. As a longstanding voice for social justice, Bragg’s music resonated deeply with the Towersey audience, many of whom have been following his career since the 1980s. Songs like A New England and Between the Wars not only sparked nostalgia but also felt profoundly relevant in today’s socio-political climate. His performance encapsulated the spirit of Towersey – a blend of music, activism, and community – and provided a poignant reminder of how music can both entertain and inspire change.
The festival, however, was much more than a series of outstanding performances; it was an experience in itself. Beyond the music, activities such as axe throwing and staff spinning offered festival-goers the chance to try something different and adventurous, adding a playful, interactive element to the weekend. The energy from these activities flowed into the craft tent, where attendees could immerse themselves in creativity, making it easy to feel like an active part of the Towersey community.
One of the vibrant highlights of the festival was the bustling market, which was alive with colour and creativity. Stalls offered an array of handmade jewellery, vibrant clothing, and unique, artisanal treasures that reflected the spirit of the festival. Whether you were hunting for a quirky keepsake or simply browsing, the market was a hub of activity, with friendly vendors adding to the lively and welcoming atmosphere. The food offerings were equally diverse, with a wide range of cuisines to suit all tastes and dietary needs. From hearty street food to more eclectic options, everything was reasonably priced, and there were plenty of choices for hungry festival-goers. Meanwhile, the festival’s bars served up refreshing pints of cider and local ales, perfect for enjoying under the warm summer sun or while relaxing between sets.
A key feature of Towersey’s charm was the open mic sessions, which allowed festival-goers to take to the stage and share their talents. These sessions fostered an intimate, grassroots feel, where anyone from seasoned musicians to first-time performers could step into the spotlight and be supported by an appreciative audience. The inclusivity of these sessions reflected the broader ethos of the festival: one of community, participation, and shared experience.
What truly made Towersey special, though, was the profound sense of togetherness that radiated throughout the event. Whether you were dancing in the crowd, taking part in a creative workshop, or chatting with new friends over a pint, the festival felt like a place where everyone belonged. It was a celebration of not just music but of connection, where strangers became friends and memories were made. The community spirit was palpable, creating a warm and welcoming environment where people of all ages and backgrounds came together to share in something truly special.
As the 60th and final Towersey Festival came to a close for us, there was a palpable sense of sadness and gratitude among us. The final notes of music rang out, and the sun set on this beloved festival for the last time. While it’s undeniably sad to see the end of such a cherished tradition, the 60th edition was a perfect culmination of everything that has made Towersey so special over the years – the music, the creativity, and, most importantly, the deep sense of community that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who have been part of its story. We are so grateful to have experienced this final chapter, and like many others, we left feeling deeply thankful for all the joy and memories Towersey has given too so many over the years.
