Described as “A little slice of musical madness in South Devon”, Lemonfest takes over Newton Abbot Racecourse on the last Saturday in May. Listed as one of the Top 25 Festivals of 2013, it is well worth looking out for, especially if you have nothing special planned for the Saturday of the late May bank holiday weekend.
This tasty one-day festival is certainly cheap and tasty. Early-bird tickets start at around £20 making it great value when you see the line-up of talent. Over the past few years Lemonfest has gained a reputation as South Devon's Premier live music event. If you're planning to attend, Lemonfest tunes up around midday, kicks off at 1pm and runs until 11pm.
Impressive Lemonfest performers' line-up
2014 is the fifth year of Lemonfest and the appropriate theme for this year is “yellow”. So far the advertised line-up of singers and musicians is headed by Gentleman's Dub Club. The 9-member band was founded in Leeds in 2006 and has vocals, keyboards, guitars, bass, trumpet, drums and sax. Having performed everywhere from Goa to Glastonbury the Dub Club offer an energetic and lively bass music.
Support acts include Luke Friend, The Correspondents, The Other Tribe, Will and the People, Mad Dog Mcrea, Firekind, Owen Penrice, Moriaty, Shoot the Moon, The Skull Kids, Hysteria and more. Live music performances and DJs keep the pace high until late with performances across five different stages.
The broad array of both national and local talent means there's something for everyone at this top music festival. Although most people head for the main stage, it's fun to spend time at the Lemonfest Locally Grown stage. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the up-and-coming talent from the area and they are sure to appreciate your support. And who knows, you may be listening to the next Radiohead or Libertines!
One of the main performers at Lemonfest this year is Luke Friend. He became a household name after appearing on the X-Factor, finishing in third place overall. This South Devon singer/songwriter cut his teeth at Lemonfest on the Locally Grown Stage in 2013 and is returning to his roots to play to his home fan base.
Music, dance, food and fun at Lemonfest
If you are the type that can't sit still when live music is playing, the Big Top Dance Tent should be perfect for you. It promises house and electronic DJs to dance and move to. Alternatively, wander over to the Rinse Out Drum and Bass / Dubstep Arena for a little more zesty entertainment.
No alcohol is permitted to be brought into the festival but there are plenty of bars and food stands lined up so you certainly won't go hungry or thirsty. There's “reel ale” from Teignworthy along with local ciders served in the Big Barn Bar. Foodies can look forward to paella, pizza, crepes, burgers, curry, nachos, hog roast, paninis, candy floss and more, so best come hungry!
As well as clothing and other merchandise for sale there's fun to be had on the Big Wheel, Helter Skelter and the Bucking Sheep.
Getting to Lemonfest in Newton Abbot
As most locals know, Newton Abbot is located right on the main A38 making Lemonfest very easy to reach by road. The racecourse is only a 10-minute walk from Newton Abbot railway station for those who prefer to arrive by train. There's a shuttle bus running between the train station and the festival site.
Easy to reach with bargain ticket prices, Lemonfest is definitely a winner at Newton Abbot Racecourse. See you there!
Have you attended any of the previous Lemonfest events? We'd love some on-the-ground feedback to pass on to other readers. Feel free to leave comments about this or any other music festival taking place in the westcountry this May.
Born in Cheshire, Gillian Birch moved to Cornwall at her earliest opportunity and never looked back. After 20 years, her ongoing discovery of popular attractions, quiet footpaths and local eateries has made her a fount of knowledge as she entertains readers with her informative articles on the hidden gems of Devon & Cornwall from a local point-of-view.