Bestival 2013: Five reasons you cannot miss the 10th anniversary

Bestival has been a fan favourite for the last decade (winning Best UK Major Festival twice!). Sprawling across the Robin Hill Country Park on the picturesque Isle of Wight it has exploded since its inception in 2004, now with over 55,000 party-goers. Festival season is drawing to a close and why wait until 2014 to experience the chance to party along the English Channel? As if you needed ANY more reason to be persuaded, The Upcoming has compiled a list of reasons not to miss this innovative festival:

1. A decade of Bestival

That’s right. It is the big 1-0. Rob da Bank and his wife Josie have poured their heart and soul into creating a pioneering music event. Together they have endeavoured to change the landscape of modern festivals for the last decade. The combined musical knowledge of Mr and Mrs da Bank has meant that the festival encompasses an eclectic spread of musical talent as well as a plethora of magical grottos to get lost in. This year, being a special anniversary, means that one can expect “Temple Island” (a place of fantasy and mystery) and the unveiling of a giant Lionel Richie head.

 2. Elton John

This legendary artist is set to headline Bestival on Sunday. This is a UK festival exclusive! The original “rocket man” has overcome his recent bout of appendicitis and has confirmed he will be playing Bestival. What a great way to welcome an iconic artist back to the stage! In addition, the line-up ranges from Snoop Dogg, Sinead O’Connor, Wu-Tang Clan to MIA. Top DJs spinning the decks include Disclosure, Julio Bashmore and Rustie. The full line-up has to be seen to be believed – it is humongous!

 3. Fancy dresses

Saturday at Bestival features the infamous fancy dress parade. In 2010 the festival smashed the Guinness World Record for most people in fancy dress at one event.  Past themes have included space, fantasy and rock stars, pop stars and divas. This year, festival attendees will hop aboard HMS Bestival – ahoy sailors, mermaids and pirates!

 4. Ethos

Coined as a boutique festival, there is no denying Bestival’s originality. With surreal surroundings including The Ambient Forest, The Bollywood Field, The Wishing Tree and The Inflatable Church (in which you can actually “get married”), Bestival has always been a step-ahead. The fire-breathing, steam-exploding monster that is Arcadia will kick-start the party on Thursday evening ensuring four nights of festivities. And never fear…for those wishing to have some rest during this marathon of fun, Bestival has a vast range of luxurious yurts, tipis and posh toilets!

 5. Student and teen tickets

Ensuring the festival is accessible to all, tickets are available to 13-17-year-olds for £127, and for students at a discounted rate of £180. This is not offered by many major music festivals. So get those NUS cards at the ready! (Children under 12 are allowed to partake in the shenanigans for free).

Anne Higgins

Bestival 2013 is on at Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight from 5^th to 8^th September 2013.

Weekend camping tickets cost £190 for those arriving on Thursday 5^th September, or £180 for those arriving on Friday 6^th September. Camper van permits are £90. All prices are subject to applicable booking fees and postage.

For further information or to book, visit here.

Watch the trailer for Bestival 2013 here: