Summer for me, is all about the festivals. We usually go to at least one of the bigger local festivals every year. Unfortunately we missed Northumberland Live a few weeks ago, and we won’t make it to Chili Fest. So last weekend were invited along to Corbridge Festival, one we’ve never been to before.
We were kindly gifted tickets for both Friday and Saturday. But unfortunately due to Andrew working late, we were unable to make the Friday night. So Saturday morning, we packed up the car, layered on the suncream, and headed to Corbridge.
We arrived at the venue at around 1.30, and had no problems parking in the official free parking field at all. And it was only a couple of minutes walk from our car to the entrance of the festival.
We joined the short queue, showed our E-tickets, presented with our wristbands and were in the venue within minutes. Like all festivals, our bags were searched as both a security measure, and to make sure no alcohol is brought into the arena. I was a little concerned we wouldn’t be allowed water. We’d brought only a bottle each. However, this wasn’t an issue. And Northumbrian Water were providing a water bar meaning your water bottle could be filled as much as you like. Which I thought was brilliant. Especially on such a hot day
We found a spot we’d like to sit nearer the back of arena. Although any festival is centred around music, we didn’t want to sit anywhere too loud. So where we chose was perfect.
Food at Corbridge Festival
There was a great selection of food vendors situated along either side of the arena. And not a single greasy chip van insight. Just quality local produce from Tandoori Naan Hut, Fowl Play, La Petite Creperie, Vegano and Papa Ganoush to name a few.
We do usually take a picnic to these kind of events. But the organisers behind the festival like to encourage support by taking advantage of the selection of food on offer to enable to keep these events running. Which I’m completely behind and who doesn’t love street food. Thankfully, the queues weren’t long. And although all opting for different food, I didn’t wait more than 5 minutes to be served.
Jessica went for a hot dog, Emily chips. Andrew a Fat Hippo Burger and Dirty fries for me.
Towards evening we decided we’d like a Northern Wilds wood fire pizza. The girls went for Peperoni, chicken and Ham and Ham, Chicken and Onions for me. These were without a doubt the best pizzas we have had. Cooked in seconds and crispy and tasty. Three pizzas cost us £21, which does sound a lot. But I’d gladly pay £7 for 3 toppings and freshly made. Worth every penny.
We also bought a back of 10 freshly made sugar donuts for only £6.50 to snack on throughout the day. Which I thought was a bargain.
Regarding alcohol, I had only one drink. I rarely drink. Especially around the kids but a cheeky cider and black wasn’t gonna hurt. I had asked for a Dark Fruits Cider, but they’d ran out. But £4 for a pint and a reminder of my youth it was.
Entertainment at Corbridge Festival
It’s so easy to spend a fortune on fairground attractions. But we’d decided the kids wouldn’t be going on any rides. This is mainly because at South Shields Fair over Easter, Emily was screaming for one of the rides to stop as she spun around wanting to be out. And consequently my anxiety over safety on these rides seems to be at a peak. The girls were more than fine with this decision.
But for those who do enjoy fairground rides, Corbridge Festival had the usual favourites such a Big Wheel, Twister, a Funshack. To be honest, just the right amount to ensure parents didn’t have to spend fortune.
Astral Circus had a number of shows on throughout the day. Only we seemed to lose track of time and miss each one. But we did enjoy an outdoor performance of The Thief, The Fox and The Pheonix. A tale of a mischievous thief who, along with his furry fox friend, embark on a quest to find an enchanted phoenix. Told through a fusion of aerial circus, dance, live singing, storytelling and music.
ArtAdventures were providing arts and crafts for the kids. And Bubblogist Jesse was captivating the crowds with her soap bubble show, which the kids clearly loved. Children were also given the opportunity to create giant bubbles of their own.
Hearing The Prodigy from one of the tents could only mean one thing. A big Big Fish Little Fish rave. We’ve been to the family raves before and my girls loved them. They then spent a little while busting their moves to classic club anthems, chasing after a giant ball and being showered in confetti.
The girls decided they’d like to spend their pocket money. I thought they might like their faces pained, or a glitter tattoo, or a flower hair band or colourful friendship bracelet. But they decided on a Loom Band kit. This £1 kit then kept them entertained when Andrew and I decided we’d like to chill for a while and listen to the music.
Music at Corbridge
There was a wide variety of live music taking place on the three stages. The Big Headliners, Support Ats and local musicians showcasing their talent.
We did pop into the smaller two music tents, but spent pretty much the whole day in the main stage arena. Enjoying performances by Artists including Matha Hill, Satyr Play, and Bloxed Beats.
But our highlight of they day and a massive hit with everyone, was multi award winning DJ and producer Punjabi Mc.
A spectacular 45 minute set of Panjabi music, merging hip hop, R&B & dance. As the set began with the distincive ‘Mundian Tu back Ke’ and the Knight Rider theme sounded out families were on their feet. We loved the whole set from start to finish. Just phenomenal. You can see snippets of his performance in my video at the end of this blog.
As the day went on we thought we’d maybe get to stick around for Fun Lovin Criminals. But as support act The Futureheads began their set at 8, we could see Jessica was tired. And the music was a bit too loud for her, so we we called it a day.
Our verdict
We had a fantastic time at Corbridge festival. The atmosphere was great, food delicious and great music. There was a relaxed vibe throughout the day. And although alcohol seemed to be flowing, we never noticed any drunken behaviour. The festival still looked pretty family friendly when we left.
For £35 an adult ticket (£50 Friday and Saturday) for adults £20 concession (£20 Friday and Saturday) and free for children under 10, we fell it’s well worth the price.
We plan to go again next year, and for the first time in my life, I’m contemplating camping. Take a look at our video of the day