Oak Fest 2024 hailed a huge success

OAK FEST, Lancashire’s newest music festival, was attended by over 2,000 people last month. Following the success of the inaugural event in 2023, OAK FEST returned on 27th July as a ticketed event for the first time. 

Set amongst the beautiful 21.4 acre park, OAK FEST enjoyed sun filled skies for most of the day, providing a perfect backdrop as both national and grassroots artists took to its two stages. 

Headlining the main stage was international recording artist Kate Nash, on the back of a performance at Glastonbury in June. Other acts performing on the main stage included Manchester legends Bez and Rowetta, Amsterdam indie pop powerhouse Pip Blom, local Accrington lads BB5, and New Orleans brass band Mr Wilson’s Second Liners. 

Fifty percent of the lineup was also made up of local acts from Accrington and surrounding areas. A new stage was unveiled for 2024, The Ossy Fest Introducing Stage, which spotlighted emerging and exciting Lancashire talent. The lineup included rock’n’roll quartet The Ruby Tuesdays, up-and-coming indie pop band The Social, and indie-folk singer Maelor Hughes. 

To make the day accessible, a free shuttle bus service was available throughout the day, taking guests from Accrington train station to Oak Hill Park. 

OAK FEST was produced and promoted by an all female team from Hyndburn Leisure Trust. Lucy Dusgate, Head of Culture and Heritage for Hyndburn, commented:

“It’s safe to say that OAK FEST 2024 was a huge success, and we couldn’t be happier with how the second year of the festival unfolded. With guests travelling from the North West and beyond to attend the festival this year, OAK FEST has significantly advanced our vision of establishing Hyndburn as a cultural hub where creatives can thrive. We’re blown away by the positive response from attendees - there are already calls for OAK FEST 2025 being made by Hyndburn residents! Keep your eyes peeled for announcements from us, and we look forward to seeing you all next year.” 

Lucy’s excitement was mirrored by those who attended the festival:

“I had a great time, Bez and Rowetta were amazing - I’ve not danced so much in ages. Well done!”

“How good was Kate Nash, really really good, made a lot of folks very happy.”

“Worth every penny. Cracking day!”

“It was simply brilliant.”

 

“A fabulous day and a great event. The Ossy Fest Introducing Stage was a cracking bonus - some really good artists and bands up there as well.”