Welcome, fellow campervan enthusiasts and adventure seekers! We’ve just returned from the epic Dubs in the Middle 2023, and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast! If you’re thinking about attending this campervan festival in the future, I’ve got all the details and insider advice to make your experience unforgettable.
1 - Overview: Where Campervan Dreams Come True
Dubs in the Middle, now in its 8th year, is the crème de la crème of campervan festivals. Held from the 25th to the 28th of May 2023 in the delightful town of Evesham in Worcestershire, it marks the early kick-off to the campervan festival season. Picture this: around 2,500 vans and cars gathered in one place, creating a paradise for campervan lovers like us!
And oh boy, let’s talk about the weather! It was as if Mother Nature had a crush on us campervanners. We were blessed with full-on sunshine for almost the entire weekend. Say goodbye to cloudy skies and hello to sun-kissed adventures!
2 - Security: Keeping It Safe and Chilled
Regarding security, Dubs in the Middle had it all covered. Throughout the weekend, you couldn’t miss the presence of security personnel. But don’t fret, my fellow festival-goers—they were more like friendly festival guardians than security guards. Their mission? To ensure everything ran smoothly while keeping the good vibes flowing.
Now, here’s a tidbit: Late at night, when the music was pumping and the party was in full swing, they made their rounds to kindly ask us to turn it down a notch. But fear not; they were as chilled as a cucumber sandwich on a summer day. So, ladies, if you’re thinking of joining the fun solo, rest assured that Dubs in the Middle is a festival where you can feel safe and enjoy every moment.
3 - Facilities and Services: The Basics Done Right
When nature called, Dubs in the Middle had our backs. Toilet blocks galore! These little havens of relief were serviced every morning, ensuring cleanliness, dryness, and an abundant supply of fluid, toilet paper, and hand sanitiser. No need to worry about running out of the essentials when nature comes knocking!
And let’s not forget the showers. They opened their steamy doors at noon, and apart from the initial rush, the wait time was usually short and sweet. The hot water flowed all day, so you could scrub away the festival grime and emerge fresh as a daisy.
Fair warning: the festival site is nestled on a grass field. The grass had been recently cut, so it was nice and neat. However, there was a fair bit of loose hay hanging around. But hey, it just added to the rustic charm, so embrace the grass between your toes and rock that wild festival look!
4 - Families: A Playground for Young and Young at Heart
Calling all families! Dubs in the Middle is a haven of family-friendly fun and adventure. The moment you arrive, you’ll see kids running around with smiles plastered on their faces. The festival organisers know how to keep the little ones entertained!
Get ready for a whirlwind of activities. The options are endless, from free arts and crafts sessions to circus classes where your kids can discover their hidden talents. And let’s not forget the KidZone—a wonderland filled with fairground rides, obstacle courses, and, wait for it, an epic foam party! It’s every child’s dream come true, and the laughter will be infectious.
Oh, and keep an eye out for the wandering entertainers. They’ll sprinkle magic and mischief wherever they go, adding an extra sprinkle of joy to your family adventure.
5 - Entertainment: Where the Fun Never Ends!
Dubs in the Middle 2023 took entertainment to a whole new level, ensuring there was never a dull moment throughout the festival. Prepare to be dazzled by the diverse range of activities and performances that kept us smiling, laughing, and dancing day and night.
Medieval Re-enactment: A Journey through Time
Are you ready to travel back in time? The House of the Twin-Tailed Lion brought us an awe-inspiring medieval experience. Witness the knights and maidens in their settlement, immerse yourself in thrilling battles, and even join them for an evening of mead drinking. It was a chance to live out our Game of Thrones fantasies without risking losing our heads!
Comedy Drag Show: Glamour Meets Hilarity
In the Alternative Tent, the Drag Show took centre stage alongside the Burlesque Show on Saturday night. Prepare to be entertained, dazzled, and doubled with laughter as the fabulous drag performers brought the house down. It was a night of pure glamour, glitter, and unforgettable hilarity. The energy was electric, and the audience was left wanting more.
Fun & Free Workshops: Unleash Your Creativity
Spare Room Arts hosted daily art workshops in the Alternative Tent, allowing festival-goers to explore their creative side. Whether it was painting, drawing, or any other artistic endeavour, these workshops provided a space for self-expression and imagination to run wild. And that’s not all! Hula Hooping, Yoga, Pole, and Burlesque workshops were also available for those looking to try something new and embrace their inner showstopper.
Ready, Steady, Cook!: A Culinary Showdown
Calling all culinary enthusiasts! Dubs in the Middle offered a chance to showcase your cooking or baking skills in the ultimate camping stove challenge. Equipped with two gas stoves and a staple pantry, participants were given the opportunity to create mouthwatering dishes. With the freedom to bring five additional ingredients of their choice, it was a battle of flavours and creativity. Let the culinary adventure begin!
Burlesque Show & Walkabout Entertainment: A Night of Seduction
Back by popular demand, the Burlesque Show returned with a bang. With more acts than ever before, the stage was set for a tantalising night of seduction and sensuality. Please note that this show was strictly for those aged 18 and above, as it pushed the boundaries of entertainment. Additionally, walkabout entertainers added a touch of magic and mischief, ensuring surprises were around every corner.
6 - Music: A Symphony of Sounds
At Dubs in the Middle 2023, music was the heartbeat of the festival. From live performances to the wildly popular silent disco, there was a melody for every ear and a beat for every dancing foot.
Live Music: A Lineup That Hits All the Right Notes
Over the weekend, more than 30 bands and singers graced the Dubs in the Middle stages. Some were returning favourites, while others were fresh faces ready to captivate the audience with their talent. From rock to reggae, pop to punk, and everything in between, the musical diversity was a feast for the ears. And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better...
Tribute Festival: Paying Homage to the Legends
Sunday was dedicated to a special Tribute Festival, where talented acts paid homage to the musical legends that have shaped our lives. The air was filled with the familiar tunes of iconic artists, and the crowd swayed and sang along, creating an atmosphere of pure nostalgia and appreciation.
Silent Disco: The Silent Symphony of Fun
Ah, the silent disco—a crowd favourite returned by popular demand. This unique experience allowed festival-goers to dance to their heart’s content while wearing wireless headphones. The Alternative Tent hosted the silent disco from 11:15 pm to 1:15 am, with three channels and three DJs spinning tunes that ranged from happy house and hardcore to reggae and club beats. And let’s not forget the rock channel, which had everyone rocking out and singing their hearts out. It was an absolute blast to remove the headphones and witness a sea of people belting out their favourite tunes, creating an infectious energy that could be felt throughout the entire campsite.
DJ Sets: The Pulse of the Night
One particular DJ set that stood out was the Ibiza set by the talented DJ Marcus Allen on Saturday night. The Disco Tent was packed with ravers, jumping and grooving to the electrifying beats. DJ Marcus Allen delivered a high-energy performance that left us craving more. It was a night that transported us to the vibrant and euphoric Ibiza scene, reminding us why music has the power to unite and uplift.
With its eclectic music lineup, the ever-popular silent disco, and DJ sets that had us dancing until dawn, Dubs in the Middle 2023 created a symphony of sounds that resonated in our hearts and kept us moving to the rhythm of life.
7 - Stalls and Vendors: A Shopper’s Paradise
Dubs in the Middle 2023 didn’t disappoint when it came to the shopping experience. The Trade Village was a bustling hub with over 50 traders and autojumble, offering a wide array of products and accessories to satisfy every camper’s needs. The stalls were a treasure trove to explore, from vintage treasures to modern camping essentials. Whether you were searching for that perfect camping gadget, a funky new t-shirt, or unique decorations for your beloved van, the Trade Village had it all.
8 - Show & Shine and Vans to Admire: Eye Candy
Prepare to be dazzled by the impressive lineup of vans at Dubs in the Middle 2023. This festival attracts campervan enthusiasts and showcases a community of friendly and passionate individuals eager to share their love for all things VW. People were more than happy to chat and share stories about their vans, buggies, and VWs in general. It was a melting pot of automotive creativity and a place where van dreams became a reality.
On Saturday, the Show & Shine and Rust & Rat show took centre stage, featuring around 100 stunning vehicles. From splitties and bays to T2s, T3s, T4s, T5s, and even the newer T6 and T7 models, the range of vans on display was awe-inspiring. Not to mention the impressive collection of VW cars and buggies that added an extra touch of diversity. The quality and craftsmanship on display were truly remarkable, making it a must-see event within the festival. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own van or appreciate the artistry of these beautiful machines, the Show & Shine was a sight to behold.
9 - Food & Drink: A Feast for the Senses
Dubs in the Middle 2023 satisfied hunger and thirst with diverse food and drink options. From the spicy flavours of Thai cuisine to the savoury delights of Indian dishes, the culinary choices were abundant. Vegans were also well catered for, with a range of plant-based options that delighted the taste buds. And, of course, there were delicious slices of pizza that provided comfort and sustenance throughout the festival.
One standout culinary experience was the ice cream van that captured the attention of both young and old. Watching the frozen plates transform liquid ice cream into a frozen treat right before your eyes was a spectacle in itself. The kids were mesmerised by the process, and the freshly made ice cream taste was the perfect way to cool down and indulge in a sweet delight.
Dubs in the Middle 2023 offered an incredible variety of food and drink, ensuring no one went hungry or thirsty. From exotic flavours to comfort classics, the culinary delights were a testament to the festival’s commitment to providing a full-sensory experience for all attendees.
10 - Pets: Woof-tastic Fun for Furry Friends
Attention all dog lovers! Dubs in the Middle 2023 embraced our four-legged companions with open arms. Dogs were a common sight throughout the festival, but it’s important to note that they must be kept on a lead and under control at all times. Responsible pet ownership was encouraged, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The festival organised a delightful Dog Show on Saturday and Sunday to celebrate our beloved Dub Dogs. Whether you were a local resident or part of the VW scene, you had the opportunity to showcase your furry friend’s talents and charm. The Dog Show featured an array of fun categories that celebrated the unique qualities of our canine companions.
The competition was fierce yet friendly, from the prestigious Best of Show and Runner-Up awards to categories like Loveliest Lady, Fantastic Fella, and Cutest Puppy. Dogs of all ages had their chance to shine, with special categories like Golden Oldie highlighting the wisdom and grace of our senior canine friends. The Best Trick category was a crowd favourite, showcasing these furry performers’ impressive skills and intelligence.
The Dog Show wasn’t just about the dogs; it also recognised the bond between pets and their owners. The Best Junior Handler category showcased the talents of young dog lovers, while the Best Furry Family celebrated the joy of having dogs as part of our households. From matching costumes to waggling tails and heartwarming moments, the Dog Show brought laughter and warmth to the festival.
And here’s a special treat: the “Stole My Heart” category allowed every entry to enjoy a free re-entry. After all, who can resist the charm and affection of our furry friends?
Dubs in the Middle 2023 didn’t forget to include our beloved pets in the festivities. It was a paw-some experience that made the festival even more inclusive and enjoyable for the whole family.
11 - Full lineup
THURSDAY
14:00-20:00: GATES OPEN
14:00-21:00: KIDS ZONE OPEN (KIDSZONE)
14:00-22:00: SHOWERS OPEN
14:00-23:00: BARS OPEN
14:00-23:00: CATERING VILLAGE OPEN
14:30-22:00: ARCHERY & AXE THROWING (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: TONE TANNER (STAGE ONE)
18:30-19:30: LAST ORDERS (STAGE ONE)
19:00-20:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
19:00-21:00: 3 CHANNEL SILENT DISCO (CH1: DJ HOLLIE B | CH2: DJ MIKE & HIS MADDEST MASHUPS | CH3: DJ DON) (STAGETWO)
19:00-23:00: FANCY DRESS TIME - ONSIE PARTY
20:00-21:00: VENOMOUS ROSE (STAGE ONE)
21:00-23:00: 3 CHANNEL SILENT DISCO (CH1: DJ ULTRA | CH2: DJ MIKE & HIS MADDEST MASHUPS | CH3: DJ DON) (STAGETWO)
21:30-23:00: CHARLIE WATERFORD (STAGE ONE)
FRIDAY
08:00-01:00: CATERING VILLAGE OPEN
08:00-22:00: SHOWERS OPEN
09:00-21:00: GATES OPEN
10:00-01:00: BARS OPEN
10:00-22:00: ARCHERY & AXE THROWING (ARENA)
11:00-17:00: SPARE ROOM ARTS WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
11:00-19:00: MR BENN’S PRODUCTIONS (WALKABOUT)
11:00-21:00: KIDS ZONE OPEN (KIDSZONE)
12:00-13:00: JOSH EDKINS (STAGE ONE)
13:00-14:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
13:00-14:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
13:30-14:30: FAMILY FUN YOGA (STAGE TWO)
13:30-14:30: DEVON MAYSON (STAGE ONE)
14:00-18:00: CIRCUS SKILLS WORKSHOP (KIDSZONE)
15:00-16:00: THE CROUTONEERS (STAGE ONE)
15:00-16:00: HULA HOOPING WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
16:00-17:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
16:30-17:30: TJ (STAGE ONE)
16:30-17:30: FAMILY DANCE WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
17:00-18:00: MEDIEVAL BATTLE BY HOUSE OF TWIN-TAILED LIONS (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
18:00-19:00: JIKSAW (STAGE ONE)
18:00-20:00: KARAOKE (STAGE TWO)
19:00-01:00: FANCY DRESS TIME - KNIGHTS & MAIDENS
19:00-20:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
19:30-20:30: SUPERNOVA (STAGEONE)
20:00-21:00: DJ HOLLIE B (THROUGH THE DECADES) (STAGE TWO)
21:00-23:00: TIME OF THE MOUTH (STAGE ONE)
21:00-23:00: JAMES DEAN (TRANCE SET) (STAGE TWO)
22:00-22:30: LED & FIRE SHOW (ARENA)
22:45-23:15: SILENT DISCO HEADSET HIRE OPENS (STAGE TWO)
23:15-01:00: 3-CHANNEL SILENT DISCO
(CH1: DJ ULTRA | CH2: DJ HOLLIE B | CH3: HARDWIRED DJ SET) (STAGETWO)
SATURDAY
08:00-01:00: CATERING VILLAGE OPEN
08:00-22:00: SHOWERS OPEN
09:00-18:00: GATES OPEN
10:00-01:00: BARS OPEN
10:00-12:00: SHOW N SHINE ENTRY (ARENA)
10:00-18:00: CIRCUS SKILLS WORKSHOP (KIDSZONE)
10:00-22:00: ARCHERY & AXE THROWING (ARENA)
11:00-11:30: ONCE UPON A STORYTIME (STAGE TWO)
11:00-12:00: HULA HOOPING WORKSHOP (STAGE ONE)
11:00-17:00: SPARE ROOM ARTS WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
11:00-19:00: MR BENN’S PRODUCTIONS (WALKABOUT)
11:00-21:00: KIDS ZONE OPEN (KIDS ZONE)
12:00-13:00: FAMILY FUN YOGA (STAGE TWO)
12:00-18:00: BUBBLE FUN WITH BUBBLE FAERIE & BUBBLEMAN (WALKABOUT)
12:30-13:00: LIV ORMSBY (STAGE ONE)
12:30-14:00: MOBILE MAGIC SHOW (WALKABOUT)
13:00-14:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
13:00-14:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
13:00-14:00: MEDIEVAL TOURNAMENT & WEAPONS BY HOUSE OF TWIN-TAILED LIONS (ARENA)
13:00-16:00: ASHDOWN CAMP MUSEUM (VIA NAAFI)
13:30-14:30: CHRIS JONES (STAGEONE)
13:30-15:00: VARIETY SHOW COMPETITION (STAGE TWO)
14:00-15:00: MERMAIDS MEET & GREET (ARENA)
14:00-15:00: SHOW N SHINE JUDGING (ARENA)
15:00-15:30: KIDS MAGIC SHOW (KIDSZONE)
15:00-16:00: THE LILACS (STAGE ONE)
15:00-16:00: SHOW N SHINE AWARDS (STAGE TWO)
15:00-16:00: MEDIEVAL CRAFTING/DEMOS BY HOUSE OF TWIN TAILED LION (ARENA)
16:00-17:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
16:30-17:30: JAKE BROTHERTON (STAGE ONE)
16:30-18:00: BOZ JAM FAM MUSIC WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
17:00-17:30: BALLOON MODELLING (KIDS ZONE)
17:00-18:00: MEDIEVAL BATTLE BY HOUSE OF TWIN-TAILED LIONS (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: HULA HOOPING WORKSHOP (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
18:00-19:00: MERMAIDS MEET & GREET (ARENA)
18:00-19:00: HOTROX (STAGEONE)
18:00-19:00: KIDS DISCO BY DJ HOLLIE B (STAGE TWO)
19:00-01:00: FANCY DRESS TIME - ONCE UPON A TIME
19:00-20:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
19:00-21:00: DJ MARCUS ALLEN (IBIZA SET) (STAGE TWO)
19:30-20:30: THE COYOTE KINGS (STAGE ONE)
21:00-23:00: SATELLITE DOWN (STAGE ONE)
21:00-23:00: BURLESQUE & DRAG SHOW (18+ ONLY!) (STAGE TWO)
22:00-22:30: LED & FIRE SHOW (ARENA)
22:45-23:15: SILENT DISCO HEADSET HIRE OPENS (STAGE TWO)
23:15-01:00: 3-CHANNEL SILENT DISCO
(CH1: BOZ ZA | CH2: DJ JASE CROY | CH3: GLENTERTAINMENT) (STAGE TWO)
SUNDAY
08:00-01:00: CATERING VILLAGE OPEN
08:00-22:00: SHOWERS OPEN
09:00-18:00: GATES OPEN
10:00-01:00: BARS OPEN
10:00-18:00: CIRCUS SKILLS WORKSHOP (KIDSZONE)
10:00-22:00: ARCHERY & AXE THROWING (ARENA)
11:00-11:30: ONCE UPON A STORYTIME (STAGE TWO)
11:00-12:00: HULA HOOPING WORKSHOP (STAGE ONE)
11:00-17:00: SPARE ROOM ARTS WORKSHOP (STAGE TWO)
11:00-19:00: MR BENN’S PRODUCTIONS (WALKABOUT)
11:00-21:00: KIDS ZONE OPEN (KIDSZONE)
12:00-13:00: BUBBLE FUN WITH BUBBLE FAERIE & BUBBLEMAN (WALKABOUT)
12:00-13:00: FAMILY FUN YOGA (STAGE TWO)
12:30-13:30: ELLIE GOULDING BY CHELSEA JADE (STAGE ONE)
12:30-14:00: MOBILE MAGIC SHOW (WALKABOUT)
13:00-14:00: MEDIEVAL TOURNAMENT & WEAPONS BY HOUSE OF TWIN TAILED LION (ARENA)
13:00-14:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
13:00-14:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
13:00-15:00: DOG SHOW (ARENA)
13:00-16:00: ASHDOWN CAMP MUSEUM (VIA NAAFI)
13:30-15:00: SPEED DATING (ADULTS ONLY!) (STAGE TWO)
14:00-15:00: MERMAIDS MEET & GREET (ARENA)
14:00-15:00: KYLIE MINOGUE BY JODIE DOODY (STAGE ONE)
15:00-15:30: KIDS MAGIC SHOW (KIDSZONE)
15:00-16:00: MEDIEVAL CRAFTING/DEMOS BY HOUSE OF TWIN TAILED LION (ARENA)
15:30-16:30: GEORGE MICHAEL BY ADRIAN MICHAELS (STAGE ONE)
15:30-16:30: CHARITY RAFFLE ANNOUNCEMENT (STAGE TWO)
16:00-17:00: FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
16:30-18:00: QUIZ BY GLENTERTAINMENT (STAGE TWO)
17:00-17:30: BALLOON MODELLING (KIDSZONE)
17:00-18:00: MEDIEVAL BATTLE BY HOUSE OF TWIN-TAILED LIONS (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: HULA HOOPING WORKSHOP (ARENA)
17:00-18:00: ROBBIE WILLIAMS BY WILL KINN (STAGE ONE)
17:00-18:00: WOOD CARVING DEMONSTRATION
18:00-19:00: MERMAIDS MEET & GREET (ARENA)
18:00-19:00: KIDS DISCO BY DJ HOLLIE B (STAGETWO)
18:30-19:30: THE EMINEM SHOW (STAGE ONE)
19:00-01:00: FANCY DRESS TIME - ANYTHING GOES!
19:00-20:00: ADULT-ONLY FOAM PIT PARTY (KIDS ZONE)
19:00-21:00: FUNK DA REALM (INC LIVE SAXOPHONIST) (STAGETWO)
20:00-21:00: U2 BY U2BABY (STAGE ONE)
21:00-23:00: TONY D TONE (LIVE SET) (STAGE TWO)
21:30-23:00: AC/DC BY SOUL STRIPPER (STAGE ONE)
22:00-22:30: LED & FIRE SHOW (ARENA)
22:45-23:15: SILENT DISCO HEADSET HIRE OPENS (STAGE TWO)
23:15-01:00: 3-CHANNEL SILENT DISCO
(CH1: TALIA K | CH2: DJ HOLLIE B | CH3: DJ PARNZ) (STAGETWO)
Final Verdict: Dubs in the Middle Is a Must-Visit!
There you have it, folks—an informal review of Dubs in the Middle 2023. This campervan festival is a gem that shines brightly on the festival calendar. Whether you’re a family seeking fun, a solo traveller craving adventure, or a group of party animals looking for a wild ride, Dubs in the Middle has something for everyone.
With its incredible atmosphere, top-notch facilities, and a lineup of entertainment that caters to all ages and tastes, this festival exceeded all my expectations. So, mark your calendars, gather your campervan crew, and attend the next edition of this fantastic event. Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Now go forth, my fellow campervanners, and let the Dubs in the Middle magic sweep you off your feet. See you there, ready to create memories that make you grin from ear to ear!