Forwards Festival Returns to Bristol’s Downs This Weekend

Bristol is preparing for one of its biggest cultural weekends of the year as Forwards Festival returns to Durdham Downs over the August bank holiday.

Now in its fourth year, the two-day event combines international music acts with debate and discussion, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to the city.

A New but Established Fixture

Although relatively new on the UK festival calendar, Forwards has quickly carved out an identity of its own since launching in 2022. Created by the team behind Love Saves the Day, another of Bristol’s major music events, the festival aims to bring together big-name performers and meaningful conversations. Each year, the event attracts around 60,000 people, firmly establishing itself as a late-summer highlight for both the city and the wider South West.

Organisers say the festival was designed not only as a celebration of live music, but also as a space for exploring issues that matter to young audiences — from the environment to politics. This dual focus has helped set Forwards apart from many other urban festivals.

The Music Line-Up

As with previous editions, this year’s Forwards offers a broad and eclectic bill. On Sunday, British R&B star Jorja Smith leads the line-up. She will be joined by soulful singer Olivia Dean and the much-discussed art-pop group The Last Dinner Party, who have risen rapidly on the UK scene.

The Saturday programme features a strong mix of live bands and electronic artists. Scottish DJ and producer Barry Can’t Swim and the Mercury Prize-winning Ezra Collective are the main draws, joined by dance duo Confidence Man, veteran electronic act Orbital, and rising guitar outfit English Teacher.

As always, Bristol and the surrounding region will also be well represented. Katy J Pearson, from nearby Stroud, brings her acclaimed folk-pop, while Bristol’s own Ishmael Ensemble will perform alongside The Ritual Orchestra. Local experimental band Waldo’s Gift are also on the bill, showcasing the city’s continuing reputation for musical innovation.

One notable absence will be US rapper Doechii, who was originally announced but withdrew from the line-up earlier this week. Organisers say they are working on finding a replacement act.

More Than Music

While music remains at its core, Forwards has always promoted itself as a space for ideas as well as entertainment. The Information Stage is dedicated to panel discussions and live talks, tackling topics such as climate change, social justice and cultural change.

This year’s speakers include comedian and satirist Munya Chawawa, television presenter Carol Vorderman, and Labour MP Zarah Sultana. Organisers say the stage is designed to give audiences the chance to hear from leading voices and take part in conversations that go beyond music.

Practical Information

Forwards takes place at Durdham Downs in Clifton, one of Bristol’s largest open green spaces. The festival runs across Saturday 23 August and Sunday 24 August, coinciding with the late summer bank holiday.

Like many inner-city events, Forwards is non-camping. However, organisers stress that the site is well served by public transport. Regular buses run from the city centre, and a special shuttle service will operate throughout the weekend.

The festival has also made efforts to ensure accessibility. Facilities include an induction loop, British Sign Language interpreters, and a sensory break-out space. Organisers note that the site is mostly flat, although heavy rain could affect ground conditions.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Any child aged four and over will need either a children’s or a teen ticket. The festival is also cashless, with all payments for food, drink and merchandise to be made by card or mobile phone.

Tickets

Tickets for Sunday and full weekend passes have now sold out. However, as of midweek, Saturday day tickets remain available. Organisers are advising those interested to book early, as capacity on the Downs is strictly limited.

A Growing Bristol Tradition

Forwards is one of several festivals that Bristol now hosts across the summer, but its mix of global talent, local voices and political discussion has given it a distinctive place in the city’s cultural calendar. With sunshine forecast for much of the weekend and a strong line-up confirmed, tens of thousands are expected to make their way to Clifton Downs to enjoy one of the region’s biggest gatherings of the year.

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