Popular Accrington music festival OAK FEST will not return in 2025 due to discontinued funding, organisers announce.
OAK FEST, which debuted in 2023 at Accrington's Oak Hill Park, quickly became a highlight in Lancashire's cultural calendar. The inaugural event attracted over 4,850 attendees, celebrating music, culture, and community. In 2024, the festival returned as a ticketed event on 27th July, drawing over 2,000 people. The main stage featured international recording artist Kate Nash, fresh from her Glastonbury performance, alongside Manchester legends Bez and Rowetta, Amsterdam indie pop band Pip Blom, local group BB5, and New Orleans brass ensemble Mr Wilson’s Second Liners. Additionally, the Ossy Fest Introducing Stage spotlighted emerging Lancashire talent, including The Ruby Tuesdays, The Social, and Maelor Hughes.
Despite its success, organisers have confirmed that OAK FEST will not take place in 2025 due to a cessation of funding. A representative stated:
“Sadly we won't be presenting an OAK FEST 2025 as funding has not been continued. Our thanks to you all for coming over the last two years - it's been fun!”
“We at Hyndburn Leisure are planning to deliver more music, art and culture events in the future so keep an eye out.”
Hyndburn Leisure, part of the local council, produced and promoted OAK FEST with an all-female team. Lucy Dusgate, Head of Culture and Heritage for Hyndburn, previously highlighted the festival's role in establishing the area as a cultural hub.
While OAK FEST's absence in 2025 is a disappointment to many, the community remains hopeful for future events that will continue to celebrate and promote local and national talent in Hyndburn.
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