Written by Sophie Wyatt

Earlier this year we were shocked and disappointed to be faced with several festival line-ups that were seriously lacking in female headliners. Festivals such as Reading & Leeds who have previously come under fire for male-dominated line-ups have worked harder to acknowledge and celebrate the amazing female music scene in the UK by putting them higher up on their line ups. Sadly, not all festivals learnt. Several line-ups that were released earlier this year followed the same pattern of headlining almost all (sometimes 100%) male artists.

With such a thriving female music scene in the UK at the moment, we were, and still are, utterly baffled at how festivals can over look such amazing talent. Luckily for us, there are some amazing festivals around the UK that are taking on a balanced ethos. Here we will take a look at some of the festivals that you do not want to miss this summer.

Cross The Tracks

This year Cross The Tracks is back, and it’s not alone. For people that weren’t lucky enough to grab tickets to one of the slickest jazz festivals around, the organisers of Cross The Tracks created two more mini day festivals, otherwise known as Full Steam. Across these three days there will be a number of amazing acts, as well as food stands, creative markets, craft beer fairs and SO much more. So jump in and fully immerse yourself in this explosive festival.

Headliners: Lianne La Havas, Sister Sledge, The Cinematic Orchestra, Sons of Kemet, Jordan Rakei

Info: Brockwell Park, London – 5th September 2021

 

Field Day

Spanning over four arenas, Field day is back and better than ever. Set in Victoria Park on the 29th August Field day is returning for its thirteenth year. With such a expertly chosen line-up of funky artists, Field Day really is your chance to jump straight back into the dance. With a number of different genres, there is definitely a lot of dance and house music present to keep you moving into the early hours.

Headliners: Bicep, The Blessed Madonna, Ross From Friends, TSHA, Jaguar

Info: Victoria Park, London – 29th August 2021

 

Naked City

Jazz, afro, jungle, dub, disco and house. What more could you ask for? Naked City is the South Eastern festival that will fully fulfill your wanting of live music in every genre. This electronic day was created by celebrated promoters Krankbrother. This vibrant, exciting day is hidden away in the corner of London, and we cannot wait.

Headliners: Ego Ella May, Mungo’s HiFi, Nubya Garcia, Zilo, Joe Armon Jones

Info: Beckenham Place Park, London – 11th September 2021

 

All Points East

After kickstarting back in 2018, All Points East is definitely one of the newer festivals, but by no means the most inexperienced. The collection of day fests compiled into one weekend exhibits a number of different genres and artists, from pop to indie to rock to soul. In the heart of London’s staple Victoria Park, All Points East continues to amaze fans with its incredible line ups and entrancing atmosphere.

Headliners: Little Simz, Jamie XX, London Grammar, Jorja Smith, Tom Misch, Celeste

Info: Victoria Park, London – 27th-30th August 2021

 

South Facing

Brand new outdoor festival South Facing takes form in a months worth of live shows. The festival was created by some of the people who have also brought us Field Day, Winterville and Cross The Tracks. South Facing intends to bring people their much beloved (and missed) live music, while also prioritising sustainability by encouraging environmental consciousness.

Headliners: Masego, Poppy Ajudha, Yazmin Lacey, Dizzee Rascal, Corinne Bailey Rae

Info: Crystal Palace Bowl, London – 5th-29th August 2021