High-flying fun — and a World Record attempt — can be expected at this year’s Filton Festival as it prepares to mark 50 years since the first commercial flight of the Concorde and 25 years of the popular community event.
On Sunday, July 5, festival-goers can enjoy a packed day of live music, family activities and aptly themed activities such as an RC plane display and airshow, birds of prey and hot air balloons (weather dependent). The festival is free to attend.
Organisers, Deryncoch, have also planned to break a World Record for the most people pretending to be an aeroplane at the same time.
Town clerk Simon Davies said: “Deryncoch is going to deliver a fantastic festival, which everyone is welcome to attend.”
Local kickboxing champion, Liam Holden, will be kicking off the festival at 11am.
With such a jam-packed line- up, the festival has been split into two stages, a main stage and a second stage with lots of local talent.
Festival line-up
Main Stage
12:30-13:15: Bristol Reggae Orchestra — The first musical performance hits the main stage at 12:30pm. Bristol Reggae Orchestra will perform until 1.15pm, drawing on influences from reggae, ska, jazz and classical music. They said: “Our ensemble reflects the multicultural fabric of Bristol. We celebrate diversity through our music and performances, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity.”
14:00-15:00: Party Peeps — The soulful performance will be followed by a more chaotic activity at 2pm. Party Peeps, the highest-rated children’s entertainment in the South West, will be hosting a family foam party.
17:00-18:00: The Longshots — To close the festival, four- piece cover band ‘The Longshots’ will keep everyone dancing with their energetic set.
A drone shot of last year’s festival. Image: Matthew Faux
Second Stage
11:00-12:00: Party Peeps — Without a minute to spare, Party Peeps will begin the family celebrations on the second stage after Liam Holden concludes the festival opening.
12:00-12:30: Filton Ukulele — Following the high-energy family entertainment are Filton Ukulele, a local group who have been running for nine years. The group, who practice every Monday at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, said: “Our repertoire consists of popular songs that are fun to play, even for beginners. Our audience can sing along too! We look forward to entertaining the festival goers at Filton. Let’s hope the weather is as good as it was last year!”
12:30-13:15: Kickboxing Demonstration — At 12:30, Liam Holden will make a second appearance. The local kickboxing legend has been decorated in gold medals alongside his teammates at GB Fit.
13:15-14:00: Filton Concert Brass — Filton Concert Brass have long associations with Filton, focussing on enjoying their music and creating an opportunity for audiences to appreciate a traditional brass band. The group originated as Avon School of Music in the early 70s; some members even played at Elm Park to celebrate the twinning of Filton with St Vallier-sur-Rhône!
15:00-15:30: Bristol Male Voice Choir — Closing the second stage, Bristol Male Voice Choir will serenade the crowd with their diverse setlist of timeless classics. Originating in 1968, what began as a small group from the British Aircraft Company has evolved into the Filton Male Voice Choir, who have gained recognition for their performances.
Festival-goers enjoying the entertainment Image: Rosie Butler-Hall
World record attempt
16:30-17:00: As part of the celebrations, festival organisers, Deryncoch have planned a first-class world record attempt. Musical performances will be briefly halted as festival attendees are encouraged to set the record for the most people pretending to be an aeroplane at the same time.
Activities
Beyond the stages, the festival site will be packed with hands-on activities and aviation-themed attractions.
Included in the activities are a workshop tent, consisting of aeronautical-themed activities including paper plane making and costume building.
11:00- 16:00 — Nature’s Aeronauts (Birds of Prey Static and Ariel Show)
11:00-18:00 — RC plane models on display
12:30, 13:30 & 15:30 — RC plane static line displays
11:00- 15:00 — Zorb Football and games
15:00-16:00 — Zorb football tournament
The Filton Foxes will also be presenting a ‘TrackFest’ event at the track throughout the day. Accumulate points and win a prize for your age group.
Stallholders
Dozens of local stallholders will be present at the festival, such as: FACE charity, South West Ambu- lance, Avon and Somerset Police and the Fire and Rescue team.
There will be plenty of opportunities to grab a bite to eat from the likes of ‘Cherry Bakes Well’ and ‘In the Mood for Food’.
Keep up with the latest information and announcements via: www.facebook.com/filtonfestival