Ever craved “an intergalactic festival of music, science, arts, culture and the exploration of space”? Well, Bluedot Festival 2018 at Jodrell Bank Observatory, Cheshire, could be the one for you. Between 19th – 22nd July, this scientific spot will be host to a plethora of acts including comedians, music and even talks from leading scientists and thinkers – proving more than your average music festival .
Why haven’t I heard of Bluedot before?
Bluedot has only been going since 2015 but in that time it has earned itself some stellar reviews, with The Guardian regarding it as “something unique and out of this world” and Lonely Planet bestowing it the title of “the best geeky festival ever”. Despite this praise, Bluedot does not seem to get the same level of promotion as other leading festivals however a good way to keep up to date is through their social medias, @bluedotfestival on Twitter and Bluedot Festival on Facebook.
How is it different?
Bluedot practices what it preaches as their mission includes exploring collaborations in science, culture, art and technology and highlighting the fragility of planet Earth. In addition they pledge to be a sustainable festival by enforcing countless clean initiatives such as offering ticket buyers the chance to donate a ‘Carbon Offset’ fee with their purchase, huge involvement in travel arrangements for festival-goers in order to reduce unnecessary pollution and the eradication of plastic straws, cups and cutlery in the encouragement of reusable, sustainable alternatives. Aside from the environmentally aware element of Bluedot Festival, the multitude of eclectic performances and talks means that there is something for everyone and something to be learnt and to come away from the festival with, which is more than can be said for most festivals.
Is it too geeky for me?
The festival is all about learning and being kind to the environment, meaning that everyone can get something out of it, not to mention the huge musical lineup. With absolute electronica giants The Chemical Brothers headlining this year, joined by the likes of The Flaming Lips and Public Service Broadcasting, Bluedot’s geek-factor is no excuse. Who doesn’t want to have a dance, a laugh, and learn a little along the way?
Bluedot truly is on a unique level of festival and it is refreshing to see an event that not only brings some of the most renowned artists in the world to one patch of land but really cares about its surroundings and in turn its audience. In a culture where festivals are getting more and more dangerous, and less about the music, Bluedot Festival is needed to introduce some fundamental perspective and awareness alongside the fun.
For more detailed information, full lineup and tickets visit the Bluedot Festival website.
Words by Emmeline Banks (@EmmtBanks)
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