The best festivals in May
Despite the recent temperatures suggesting it's still winter, May is almost here. And that means the festival season is really starting to kick into gear! Especially when we hit the jam-packed Bank Holiday Weekend at the end of the month.
Check out a selection of the best festivals happening across the British Isles below, or head here to find even more events to kick off the season in style.
Lib in the Square
Lineup: Gorgon City, Armand van Helden, Danny Howard, Arielle Free, Paisley Jensen, Selena Faider
One of the most anticipated events in Jersey, Lib in the Square 2024 marks the 79th Anniversary of Jersey's Liberation with two historic nights of music. Royal Square will be closed off for exclusive use as the event arena, transformed for an unmissable celebration featuring some of the world’s finest DJs alongside some of the very best local talent.
When: The Royal Square, Jersey
Where: Saturday 4th May - Sunday 5th May
Bournemouth 7s Festival
Lineup: Wilkinson, Rudimental, Joel Corry, Majestic, Rossko, BLVCK VIØLET,
The perfect festival for your May Bank Holiday weekend. The world's largest sport and music festival, Bournemouth 7s, boasts 12 music arenas, big-name artists, foam parties, fancy dress and 400 teams competing across 7 different sports. It's a festival like no other.
When: Friday 24th May - Sunday 26th May 2024
Where: Bournemouth, Dorset
Love Saves The Day
Lineup: Camelphat, Rudimental, Sub Focus, The Streets, Ben Hemsley, Eliza Rose, Katy B, Sammy Viriji + more
Love Saves The Day returns to Ashton Court, taking place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May for another love-fuelled bank holiday weekend in Bristol, with a huge selection of fan favourites on the bill.
When: Saturday 25th May - Sunday 26th May
Where: Ashton Court, Bristol
In It Together Festival
Lineup: Rag'n'Bone Man, Sugababes, Dizzee Rascal, Ewan McVicar, Eats Everything, Wilkinson, Craig David, Sam Ryder, Cat Burns
The third instalment of In It Together Festival sees the event return to Old Park Farm in Port Talbot; bringing 50,000 people to South Wales for three days of incredible entertainment and unmissable experiences. Expect a diverse, inclusive and family-friendly programme of entertainment that features cabaret, comedy, circus and more alongside the extensive musical offerings.
When: Friday 24th May - Sunday 26th May
Where: Old Park Farm, Port Talbot
Better Days Festival: The Summer Opening
Lineup: TBA
After the monumental success of last year's all-day festivals, the multi-area outdoor festival is back at the Beaver Works complex in the heart of Leeds for the Bank Holiday. Featuring multiple stages, over 50 DJs, creative decor and production, funfair rides, street food stalls, inflatables, entertainers, lighting shows, live musicians and more.
When: Sunday 26th May 2024
Where: Beaver Works, Leeds
Run To The Sun
Lineup: Goldie (live ensemble), Jaguar Skills, Krafty Kuts, The Nextmen, Mr Thing, Slipmatt, Doc Scott, Afriquoi, The Scribes
Taking place over the Bank Holiday Weekend at the end of the month, RTTS is an event with a unique blend of cool and custom cars, and music. Starting with the 'Run to Cornwall' - from Reading all the way to Newquay - three days of top-quality entertainment follow, mixed with some of the best custom cars, hot rods and classic VWs in the country.
When: Friday 24th - Monday 27th May
Where: Newquay, Cornwall
Hijacked Festival
Lineup: Mall Grab B2B EFFY, Sammy Virji, LF System, BKLAVA, Cassö, Charlie Boon, Mr Sosa
Returning to Double Locks on Thursday 30th May, Hijacked Festival celebrates 10 years with a stellar lineup that befits such a significant landmark. Hosted by Hold It Down and featuring some of the best brands in Exeter, Hijacked is an annual coming together of the city's underground scene. Incredible headline acts are complemented by local talent, great food & drink, and a beautiful location.
When: Thursday 30th May
Where: Double Locks, Exeter
AVA Festival
Lineup: Bicep, Nia Archives, Barry Can't Swim, Kerri Chandler, Sammy Virji, horsegiirL, Helena Hauff, Kiki
AVA returns to Belfast to celebrate 10 years of memories with a stacked lineup of artists across the weekend. Student and Resident tickets are available with an additional saving of 20% (please be prepared to show either a valid student ID or a utility bill for those living in the Titanic Quater area).
When: Titanic Slipways, Belfast
Where: Friday 31st May - Saturday 1st June