Forwards Festival Bristol - Final phase tickets released
Posted on: 15 Jul 2025Forwards Festival 2025 to Transform Clifton Downs into Hub for Music and Thought (Sat 23–Sun 24 Aug)
Bristol, UK – The fourth annual Forwards Festival is back, landing at Clifton Downs over the August Bank Holiday weekend, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August 2025. Emerging as one of the South West’s most forward looking events, the festival merges top-tier international acts with community driven debate and cultural programming.
GET TICKETS HERE
Star Studded Line-Up Blending Surprise, Soul and Jungle
Saturday promises an eclectic mix: DJ-producer Barry Can’t Swim will anchor a set alongside jazz-fusion sensation Ezra Collective, while DIY darlings Confidence Man, electronic pioneers Orbital, and Manchester indie icons Happy Mondays round out a dynamic main stage bill.
Sunday marks a milestone—an all female headline day featuring Grammy winner Doechii in her Bristol festival debut, soulful singer-songwriter Jorja Smith, and the theatrical indie outfit The Last Dinner Party. Also appearing are groundbreaking acts such as rapper Pa Salieu and post-punk experimentalists Squid, adding fresh edges to the final day.
New “Arches” Dance Tent Debuts
2025 sees the debut of “The Arches”, a new dedicated dance tent. DJs Annie Mac, Jamz Supernova, and Helena Star will lead boiling house and club sets on Saturday. Sunday shifts into drum and bass territory with legendary producer LTJ Bukem, local heroes Smith & Mighty Soundsystem (with special guests), and bass heavy sets from artists like Shy One and Miss Mash.
“The Information” Stage: Music and Meaning
Forwards builds on its community ethos with The Information stage, transforming into a late-night arena for social debate and creative dialogue. Saturday’s programming features rising Bristol voices Ava Zarate, Laura Dia, Mould, Alamay & Omar Cassius, while Sunday features spoken word and experimental showcases by Waldo’s Gift, Dizraeli & Joy Machine, Red, and Guy.
A Festival Rooted in Bristol’s Soul and Sustainability
Launched by Team Love CIC, Forwards champions Bristol’s rich musical legacy—trip-hop, punk, jungle—with a strong local presence across all stages. Positioned as “more than just a music festival,” it underscores ongoing social initiatives: sustainability efforts, year round civic engagement, and a family friendly kids area.
Tickets and Travel
Pre-sale access began 5 March 2025, followed by general sale on 6 March, with weekend and single day tickets still available through See Tickets. Sunday and weekend tickets are selling fast, and those planning travel to Clifton Downs are advised to book early.
Why it matters now:
Forwards Festival blends headline appeal with inclusivity, spotlighting Bristol’s upcoming talent while elevating global acts. Its expanded dance programming, with the launch of The Arches, reflects growing demand for immersive local festival experiences.
Line-Up at a Glance
Tickets are available now—don’t miss one of Bristol’s most innovative cultural weekends of the year.