AN APPEAL has been launched to save next year’s Keynsham Music Festival.
The campaign aims to raise £10,000 so the popular community event can go ahead in the summer.
Announcing the appeal on the Crowdfunder platform, festival chair Mike May said: “For more than two decades, the Keynsham Music Festival has been at the heart of our town – run by volunteers, it’s a celebration of music, art, creativity, and community that brings thousands together every summer. From family picnics in the park to headline performances, it’s an event that belongs to all of us.
“But right now, our festival is at risk. Rising costs and reduced funding mean we urgently need your help to make sure it survives. Without the support of our community, the festival will not take place next year.”
The week-long festival is a blend of music, comedy and other cultural events, its highlight being a big family weekend in Keynsham Memorial Park.
Organisers aim to cater for all musical tastes, ranging from rock, rap, folk, country and dance to classical, opera and choral.
The festival also gives local schools and colleges, youth groups, and emerging musicians the opportunity to perform on professional stages and experience working behind the scenes.
But the appeal adds: “Putting on a safe, professional festival costs money – from staging and sound to security, medical and insurance. We rely on grants and sponsorship, but these alone no longer cover the rising costs. To keep the festival alive, we now need to raise £10,000.”
It says every contribution to the appeal will help keep festival entry as donation only, as well as funding youth workshops and performances, and special projects for disadvantaged young people.
“Together, we can make sure the festival continues to provide such important opportunities for the community of Keynsham – and to keep making those special memories.”
To donate, visit the festival’s Crowdfunder page. Almost £3,000 has already been pledged.
Music festival photo by Colin Rayner
£10,000 appeal to save Keynsham Music Festival
