Our Story, Mission and People
Benewquay Festival brings a month of music, food, art and community gatherings to the coast each November, closing on 1 December 2024.
Our history
The festival began as a small weekend of local performances and has grown into a month-long programme that welcomes visitors from across the region. Each year we have added new venues, new partners and new ways for residents to take part.
What started with a handful of volunteers now involves artists, producers, local businesses and a dedicated organising committee working together from the first planning meetings to the final closing night.
Mission and values
The principles that guide every decision we make about the festival.
Community first
We prioritise local artists, suppliers and audiences, and we measure success by the value the festival returns to the town.
Open access
Pricing, accessibility and information are designed so that people of all backgrounds can take part in the programme.
Responsible events
We reduce waste, favour sustainable suppliers and review our environmental impact after every edition.
Next reads
Milestones
Key moments along the way to the 2024 festival.
First community programme
A small set of local performances brought residents together for a single weekend.
Expansion to a month-long festival
New venues and partners extended the programme across several weeks.
1 November to 1 December
The current edition runs for thirty-one days with music, food, art and workshops.
Behind the festival
A look at the people and places that make each edition possible.
Working with the festival has shown me how a community can shape its own cultural life. The organisers listen, adapt and always keep local people at the centre.
Local музыкант and volunteer coordinator
Join us this November
Come and be part of a festival built by its community. Explore the programme and plan your visit.
Explore the programme