WOMAD festival anticipates 30,000 attendees as it comes back to Wiltshire

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Thirty thousand music enthusiasts and performers are anticipated to gather in the countryside of Wiltshire in July as the WOMAD festival reopens its doors to the county. Organized by Box-based World of WOMAD Ltd, the event is set to take place at Neston Park near Corsham from July 23 to 26. Seeking a license from Wiltshire Council, the application includes provisions for live and recorded music, as well as the sale of alcohol and late-night refreshments.

Moreover, the festival intends to incorporate plays, such as walkabout performances and circus acts, film screenings, and dance showcases into its program of events. The licensing request extends to live music performances until 4 am, although actual performance times are planned to conclude by midnight on Thursday and 2 am on Friday through Sunday.

With a cap of 29,999 individuals, including staff, contractors, and performers, the license application outlines the sale of fifteen thousand adult tickets in its inaugural year at the new venue. WOMAD has a history in Wiltshire, having been a recurring event in the county since 2007. The festival’s essence lies in its inclusive nature, welcoming individuals of all ages to explore global music, dance, food, workshops, arts, and crafts in a family-friendly environment.

The festival space will feature various tented structures, open-air venues, numerous bars, food and drink concessions, expansive parking areas, campervan fields, camping facilities, children’s areas, well-being zones, and other activity zones. To facilitate smooth crowd movement, the venues in different sizes will have staggered opening and closing times. WOMAD Festival boasts a diverse audience, primarily comprising professionals in the 30s-50s age range, along with families and music enthusiasts spanning multiple generations who relish the opportunity to witness a diverse lineup of global artists in one location.

The music arena is proposed to be centrally located near the manor house, with camping sites encircling it, and parking facilities positioned towards the south and east. The public consultation period remains open until January 7, following which the council will rule on the license application. WOMAD encapsulates a vibrant amalgamation of culture, music, and arts, offering a unique experience to festival-goers seeking an eclectic program and an enriching environment.

In conclusion, the anticipated return of WOMAD to Wiltshire is poised to draw in a crowd of 30,000 individuals, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry that celebrates global music, dance, and art forms. The festival’s commitment to inclusivity, family-friendly ambiance, and diverse program offerings solidify its reputation as a premier music event in the region. With a range of activities, performances, workshops, and culinary delights on offer, WOMAD promises an enriching experience for attendees of all ages and backgrounds.