F.A.Qs Find out more.

Q. Is there a theme for this year’s festival?

A.This year marks the 20th anniversary of the festival.  We have chosen to dedicate the event to festival founder, Graham Loveday, who sadly passed away in 2020.  Graham was an avid supporter of the church and community, with a particular flare for creating musical opportunity. His legacy continues in many local musical groups.  In dedication to Graham, this year’s theme is LOVE your community.

Q. Why is Ashton Keynes Primary School hosting the festival this time?

A. The festival is not linked to the school, but the grounds offer a cost-effective solution for a marquee, as the tarmac playground means additional flooring isn’t necessary. The availability of the hall means we have also been able to hire a smaller marquee and still have plenty of room.

Q. Will the school be big enough to hold the festival? 

A. We have a substantial Marquee, located to incorporate the hall which will be plenty big enough. We can also utilise the school field for AK Shows Off event.

Q. Can I bring my dog? 

A. The school has a strict no dogs policy to ensure the safety of play areas for the children.  We ask for your understanding.

Q. What are you doing to manage traffic and parking? 

A. We respectfully request our guests to avoid Gosditch, both for access and for parking. We are currently investigating options for reinforcement on the grounds of pedestrian safety and access for emergency vehicles. There is designated parking at Bradstone Playing Field and The Village Hall, with further street parking around the village. We ask you to park with consideration to residents. If you are a Blue Badge holder, we will do our best to accommodate you.

Q. How do I become a volunteer? 

A. Fill in the form on the website or email: theorganisers@ashtonkeynesfestival.net

and we will be in touch.

Q. Are you providing food? 

A. A street food catering van will be available on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon, as well as an ice cream van for a limited time. The WI will be selling cakes on Saturday afternoon. The Saturday Party Night & Sunday Brunch are catered events and the meal is included in the ticket price. Vegetarian options are available. Any other dietary requirements should be sent to theorganisers@ashtonkeynesfestival.net well in advance please.

Q. How are you managing noise levels in a residential area?

A. Live music will obviously carry, though we hope the variety on offer will be enjoyable for all. In consideration of those living close to the school, live music is scheduled to finish at 11pm, but latest 11.30pm. There will be a silent disco in the school hall until midnight on Saturday. Doors will be closed to contain as much noise as possible.

Q, How is the festival funded? 

A, The festival is funded through ticket sales, fundraising events and a small amount of sponsorship. This year the Parish Council have made a significant contribution, which is ring-fenced funding to support this and future festivals.

Q, What is the purpose of the festival and what will happen to any profits?

A, The festival is an opportunity to bring our community together in a celebration of music and creativity. It’s a chance for busy lives to cross over, to spend time with friends and make new ones. Our community has grown and changed since the last festival and we would love to see many new faces. Funds coming out of the festival will be set aside for future events and/or fed into a fund to support creative arts within the village.

Q, Is there an age restriction for attending? 

A, There is no age restriction, except for Saturday evening after 7.00pm which will be for over 16s only.

Q, How do I buy tickets? 

A, Tickets are available on the website, from the buy ticket section via PayPal. You do not need a PayPal account for this. On the section that says open a PayPal account, select the white button to pay by card. 

Alternatively, all tickets will be available from the Ashton Keynes Community Shop. If you need help, email: theorganisers@ashtonkeynesfestival.net or ask the organiser of the event you are enquiring about.

 

Q, Will you have facilities to pay by card?

A, Both cash and card payments will be welcome at events held at the school and church. Should you wish to buy refreshments during Open Gardens (if available), please bring cash.