We Out Here Festival: A Blissful Escape in Dorset
For anyone yearning for the iconic vibes of Glastonbury this summer, the We Out Here Festival offered a perfect alternative. Set against the stunning backdrop of St Giles House, the Earl of Shaftesbury’s estate in Wimborne St Giles, Dorset, this festival ran during a weekend filled with music, wellness activities, and community spirit. The festival’s seventh iteration provided a delightful experience, proving that even in Glastonbury’s absence, the magic of summer festivals continues to thrive.
A Fitting Festival Atmosphere
With a crowd of around 25,000 attendees, We Out Here struck a sweet spot—big enough to foster excitement but intimate enough to maintain a sense of community. The festival featured 400 live acts and DJs spread across 15 distinctive stages, each with its own ambience. From large tents to the hay-bale-surrounded ‘Rhythm Corner’, and the enchanting open-air forest dance floors, the grounds provided a canvas for an eclectic array of performances.
One particularly notable aspect of We Out Here was its family-friendly approach. While not a children-only festival, it welcomed families with open arms. The festival’s atmosphere felt open and relaxed, reflected in the diverse crowd that gathered, showcasing a beautiful mix of races, cultures, and backgrounds. Many attendees noted the vibrant presence of Peckham’s sub-culture, creating a unique local flavor that further enriched the experience.
A Journey Through Genres
The musical journey at We Out Here was expertly curated, moving through genres seamlessly as the day transitioned into night. Early afternoons featured smooth jazz, evolving into electronic sounds, and culminating in the pulsating beats of Drum and Bass and House music late into the night. The festival’s scheduling drew artists like the iconic jazz-rap trio, Digable Planets, performing on Thursday, to Joy Crookes lighting up the main stage on Friday.
The party truly came alive on Friday night with DJ Adam F leading an electric rave in the packed Beats Hotel stage, where cocktail enthusiasts mingled, drinks in hand, amidst a sea of sweaty bodies bouncing in rhythm. It was a scene of euphoria, and for those needing a breather, the outdoor area provided a respite without the need to miss out on the vibrant energy inside.
Family Fun and Relaxation Spaces
One of the standout elements of We Out Here was the harmonious blend of music and wellness experiences. Families enjoyed quality time in the Family Area, which consistently delivered high-energy sets while also providing skateboarding lessons, drumming workshops, and pizza-making stations for children. Parents danced freely in the sun while their children engaged in creative activities, creating a safe haven for the next generation.
As the weekend progressed, many found solace in the lakeside Wellness area, where relaxation was the goal. People flocked to rejuvenating yoga classes, sound baths, and refreshing swims in the tranquil lake. This space transformed into a peaceful retreat where revelers could recharge, before returning to the dance floors later.
Engaging Discussions and Poetry Performances
We Out Here didn’t just focus on music; it fostered a sense of community through conversations and introspective moments. The Talks Tent hosted discussions centered around the theme of ‘Togetherness,’ encouraging attendees to connect over shared experiences and thoughts on community building. The poetry performances added a layer of artistry that resonated deeply with many festival-goers.
The sentiment of connection and mutual respect permeated the festival. While there were certainly vibrant afterparties, they felt rather contained, contributing to an atmosphere where camaraderie and enjoyment took precedence over chaos and noise.
A Celebration of Diversity and Music
The festival wrapped up with memorable performances that emphasized the range of musical styles showcased throughout the weekend. The Saturday lineup was electrified by the jazz/hip-hop/afrobeats collective Steam Down, followed by the soulful Jamie Woon, who captivated the audience on the Main Stage. The weekend culminated in a surprise set from the legendary producer and DJ Four Tet, who brought an exhilarating close to the festival at the Rhythm Corner.
Across the grounds, extraordinary acts and impromptu jams echoed through the trees, creating a communal celebration of love for music and dance. In a landscape with several large events happening simultaneously across the UK, We Out Here stood out remarkably—not just due to its music but because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere that enveloped the entire festival.
Through its thoughtful programming and communal spirit, We Out Here transcended the typical festival experience, showcasing the power of music, wellness, and togetherness amidst a backdrop of joy and celebration.
