Bestival 2023 mission and vision:

The wonderful world of Bestival was born out of ten fun years of pioneering music events and record releases from Rob da Bank’s Sunday Best empire. Along with Creative Director and wife Josie da Bank and co founders / partners John and Ziggy from Get Involved that dream is now fulfilled. On a mission to change the face of independent festival culture, the fearless foursome are bringing some magic to the shores of the Solent and spreading the love worldwide.

It’s Rob and Josie da Bank’s creative vision that sets Bestival apart. Whilst the massive musical brain of Rob ensures the Bestival line-up is the most eclectic you’ll ever experience, it’s Josie’s creative wand that casts its magic over Bestival land. From the most original boutique campsite experience, a Wishing Tree Stage, fancy dress en-masse and even a landlocked Port, it’s this uniqueness that makes Bestival a wondrous world of discovery and adventure that will inspire peace, love and dancing not only in September but all year round…

A Personal Imprint:

You’ll hear a mix of EDM, indie, soul, funk and pop at Bestival, and the entire event is famous for Josie’s personal touch in elaborate stage designs, festival grounds and individual events.

Costumes play a key role in Bestival. Bestival pulls out all the stops by holding a Fancy Dress Parade each year (usually on Saturday). In 2010, revelers achieved a place in the Guinness Book of World Records by having the most people in costume at one time.

Other thoughtful developments include the Boutique Campground, a step up from your typical tent camping or caravan park, that offers a wood-fired spa and sauna called Bathing Under the Sky. There is also the Come Dancing Spiegeltent, a mirrored big top tent that offers dance lessons throughout the entirety of the festival. You can take a break from enjoying live performances of top acts and step back in time to learn the Charleston, the Lindy Hop, swing dancing, and more.

Play dress up:

Bestival takes costumes seriously. If you don’t bring your own, keep an eye out for the studio tents that can take you through the costume making process. There’s an annual theme, and they can help you fit in with the crowd.