As part of our festival review series for the 2023 campervan festival season, here is our Alive & Kickin Festival Review.
Alive & Kickin is the early season starter by the same people who bring Alive & Dubbin' to you.
As the sunlit fields of Haughley Park welcomed festival-goers, an air of anticipation filled the early season starter festival known as "Alive and Kicking." From April 21st to 23rd, campervan enthusiasts, music lovers, and adventure seekers gathered for a back-to-basics weekend of unbridled joy and connection. This captivating event, experienced firsthand, was nothing short of extraordinary.
A Harmonious Blend of Delights
Alive and Kicking was a true testament to the power of simplicity and shared experiences. With its alluring offerings of Wildcraft Brewery libations, live music, traders, delectable food, autojumble treasures, and a chance to revel in the joys of camping with your van, every aspect was carefully orchestrated to create an unforgettable atmosphere. From the moment you set foot on the grounds, you knew you were in for an exceptional journey.
Vehicle Displays: A Tapestry of Automotive Beauty
Surrounded by the vibrant pulse of music, tantalizing aromas, and the buzz of traders and activities, the vehicle display area stood as the festival's heart. A captivating sight awaited as over 150 vehicles showcased their unique charm, adding to the kaleidoscope of colours and stories woven throughout the event. On Saturday, all types of vehicles graced the display, drawing admiration from all who attended. On Sunday, the focus shifted to the VW Show & Shine, where the top five winners were celebrated in a spectacle of automotive excellence.
Euphonic Delights: Music to Set Souls Ablaze
Saturday's symphony of sound began with the mighty tunes of Headway. They ignited the stage with classic rock anthems from the '70s to the present, filling the air with infectious energy. As the night deepened, The Bloodshake Chorus took centre stage, captivating the crowd with their unique blend of '50s and '60s horror rock. It was as if George A. Romero and Buddy Holly had spawned an unforgettable musical collaboration.
Sunday morning welcomed the soulful sounds of The Lazy I, their melodies offering a serene awakening to the day's festivities. Roquefort, a monstrous force of rock-cheese mayhem, took over the stage with their awe-inspiring chords and riffs. Their repertoire of beloved rock tunes, including favourites like "Smoke on the Water," "Summer of '69," and "Don't Stop Believing," had the crowd singing along, united in a shared passion for these timeless anthems. Otters Pocket, a Suffolk-based soul, northern soul, and blues band, graced the afternoon with their mesmerizing vocals and saxophone-infused melodies, leaving an indelible mark on all who swayed to their rhythm.
Enthralling Activities: Unleashing Creativity and Thrills
The festival wasn't solely about music—it was a playground of activities that ignited the imagination and brought out the inner child in everyone. The Lego Tent beckoned attendees to unleash their creativity and build wonders from plastic bricks. Meanwhile, the Craft Tent was a haven for those seeking artistic expression and the joy of making. Sand Art Hot Air Balloons, Animal Masks, colourful gliders, puppet theatres, and mini bunting creations delighted both young and old alike.
GreyGoose offered archery and axe-throwing sessions for those seeking adventure, allowing participants to channel their inner warriors with expert guidance. The folks at Stocks Funfair added an extra dose of exhilaration with a funhouse, trampolines, and a colourful array of inflatables, ensuring there was never a dull moment for the spirited souls in attendance.
FOOD VENDORS: A Gastronomic Adventure
A festival experience is only complete with a tempting array of food to satisfy the taste buds and fuel the festivities. Alive and Kicking delivered on this front with a diverse lineup of food vendors that catered to every craving and culinary desire. From the moment you caught a whiff of the mouthwatering aromas, you knew you were in for a gastronomic adventure like no other.
Wildcraft Brewery, known for its exceptional craft brews, provided the perfect libations to quench the thirst of festival-goers. Their unique flavours and artisanal approach to brewing elevated the festival experience to new heights. As the golden elixir flowed, conversations flowed with equal enthusiasm, creating a sense of camaraderie among beer enthusiasts.
For those searching for savoury delights, East Coast Pizza tantalized taste buds with their delectable wood-fired creations. The bubbling cheese and freshly baked dough aroma wafted through the air, drawing hungry crowds to their stall. Each slice was a slice of heaven, filled with the perfect blend of flavours and toppings that left mouths watering for more.
Sweet Sunrise Crepes offered a sweet escape for those with a penchant for indulgence. Their delicate and perfectly cooked crepes, filled with an array of delectable fillings and topped with a generous drizzle of syrup, provided a burst of sweetness that delighted festival-goers, young and old. It was a momentary respite from the hustle and bustle, allowing people to savour each delectable bite and revel in pure culinary bliss.
Hurleys Ices provided a cool respite from the springtime sun, offering a rainbow of refreshing ice cream flavours that melted on the tongue and brought smiles to faces. The symphony of flavours and textures danced in perfect harmony, offering a delightful escape from the warm embrace of the festival atmosphere.
Chocolate Tiger Coffee served up fragrant cups of liquid gold to keep the energy levels high and the senses awake. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the lively chatter of festival-goers, creating an inviting atmosphere for coffee connoisseurs and casual sippers alike. Each sip was a moment of revitalization, a sensory awakening that fueled the adventure-filled days and nights.
And for those craving a taste of classic British fare, Charlies Chippy served up traditional fish and chips that transported taste buds to seaside delights. The crispy golden batter, perfectly cooked fish, and piping hot chips brought back nostalgic memories of beachside indulgences, offering a comforting and satisfying meal for all who sought a taste of tradition.
TRADERS: A Treasure Trove of Delights
Beyond the gastronomic wonders, Alive and Kicking was a treasure trove of traders offering an eclectic mix of unique finds, handmade crafts, and vintage delights. The traders' area was a bustling marketplace with colour, creativity, and a palpable sense of excitement.
Cool Blue, with its vibrant collection of bohemian-inspired clothing and accessories, beckoned fashionistas and free spirits alike. Their eye-catching designs and attention to detail added a touch of bohemian flair to the festival, allowing attendees to express their individuality and embrace their inner wanderer.
Green Routine showcased eco-friendly and sustainable products, inviting festival-goers to make conscious choices for the planet. From reusable items to natural skincare products, their stall was a haven for those seeking to minimize their environmental impact while enjoying the festival experience.
Volks T Life, the purveyor of all things Volkswagen-related, delighted fans of the iconic brand. Their collection of Volkswagen-inspired merchandise, from clothing to accessories, allowed enthusiasts to proudly showcase their love for the classic vehicles that symbolize the campervan and camping community.
Sweet Treats enticed festival-goers with their delectable confections and irresistible desserts. From homemade fudge to mouthwatering cakes, their stall was a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. Each bite was a moment of pure indulgence, a fleeting taste of heaven that left smiles on faces and satisfied sighs in the air.
Chris Low Cupholders provided a practical solution for festival-goers seeking convenience and style. Their innovative cup holders, explicitly designed for campervans and outdoor adventures, ensured no beverage was ever spilt and no moment of enjoyment interrupted. It was a small but invaluable addition to the festival experience, making every sip a seamless part of the celebration.
Rockers & Hippies showcased a collection of retro-inspired clothing and accessories, transporting attendees to the golden era of rock 'n' roll and free-spirited counterculture. Their stall exuded the rebellious energy and bohemian charm that defined a generation, inviting festival-goers to embrace their inner rocker or flower child.
VW Mancave Stuff catered to the nostalgia and passion of Volkswagen enthusiasts. Their stall was a treasure trove of vintage Volkswagen memorabilia, from signage to collectables, allowing attendees to bring a piece of automotive history into their lives and campervans.
With their tattoos and glitter creations, Zanzoot brought a touch of sparkle and glamour to the festival. Festival-goers adorned their bodies with temporary tattoos and shimmering designs, embracing their inner diva and adding an extra dose of whimsy and festivity to their appearances.
Lunar Rose Crafts showcased handmade crafts and artistic creations, each piece a testament to creativity and skill. From intricate jewellery to hand-painted artworks, their stall was a visual feast, inviting festival-goers to explore the beauty and craftsmanship of handmade treasures.
Tuppence Tree offers a range of eco-friendly and sustainable products, from bamboo toothbrushes to reusable household items. Their stall provided festival-goers with practical and mindful alternatives, inviting them to make conscious choices and reduce their environmental footprint.
Janes Crafties delighted attendees with their collection of handmade and personalized gifts. Each item was crafted with love and attention to detail, offering a unique and heartfelt way to commemorate the festival experience or find a special gift for a loved one.
Surge Design showcased its artistic prowess with stunning prints and graphic designs. Their stall was a visual spectacle, offering festival-goers the opportunity to bring home a piece of art that resonated with their spirit and style.
Vantastic Clothing celebrates the campervan and camping lifestyle with its collection of clothing. Each piece is a tribute to the free-spirited and adventurous souls who roam the open road, inviting festival-goers to proudly wear their passion for the campervan community.
Bon Ami Cottage Crafts showcased their handmade creations, each item exuding rustic charm and warmth. From knitted accessories to embroidered textiles, their stall offered festival-goers a glimpse into cosy craftsmanship and homely delights.
Plaqueman added a touch of personalization and nostalgia to the festival experience. Their customized nameplates and signs allowed attendees to mark their campervans or create unique mementoes, ensuring that memories made at Alive and Kicking would be cherished for years to come.
Funky Bum Bags offers a stylish and practical solution for festival-goers needing hands-free convenience. Their vibrant and trendy bum bags ensured that essentials were always within reach, allowing attendees to dance, explore, and revel in the festival experience without any hindrance.
ByKatyMac showcased the talent and artistry of Katy Macleod, an illustrator with a penchant for whimsical and enchanting designs. Her stall was a visual wonderland, inviting festival-goers to immerse themselves in fantastical creatures and magical landscapes.
Jap Graphics - Number plates provided a unique way to personalize campervans and vehicles. Their customized number plates allowed attendees to add a touch of individuality and flair to their vehicles, making them stand out from the crowd and reflect their personal style.
MancCave catered to the nostalgia and passion of automotive enthusiasts. Their collection of vintage car parts, memorabilia, and accessories brought a touch of retro charm to the festival, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the world of classic automobiles and celebrate the beauty of automotive history.
Conclusion: Alive & Kickin Festival RevieW - A Vibrant Tapestry of Memories
Alive and Kicking, an early-season starter festival, proved to be a delightful kick-off to the festival season. From the laid-back and back-to-basic atmosphere to the vibrant displays of music, food, traders, and activities, it was a weekend filled with joy, camaraderie, and sensory delights.
Alive and Kicking proved to be a magnificent celebration of community, music, and the indomitable spirit of the festival season. As the sun set on Haughley Park, friendships were forged, spirits were lifted, and memories were etched into the hearts of all who partook in this extraordinary event. It was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the joy of embracing life's simple pleasures.
As the festival season unfolds, Alive and Kicking sets the bar high, reminding us all of the magic that awaits on the open road. So, gather your fellow adventurers, dust off your campervans, and embark on a journey filled with music, camaraderie, and the spirit of celebration. Alive and Kicking is not just a festival; it's an invitation to kick-start your festival season in the most magnificent way possible.