We Out Here Festival: A Celebration of Music, Culture, and Community
As summer days stretch lazily into warm nights, the tranquil English countryside of Wimborne St Giles in Dorset transforms into a vibrant hub of music, wellness, and cultural activities, thanks to the annual We Out Here Festival. Hosted by the renowned Gilles Peterson, a stalwart of Jazz curation and synonymous with BBC 6Music, this boutique festival unfurls over four days, from August 10-14, creating an immersive celebration of diverse musical genres and shared community experiences.
We Out Here Festival takes its name from the influential 2018 album, which brought together the brightest stars of British jazz such as Nubya Garcia, Ezra Collective, and Moses Boyd. The festival mirrors this innovative spirit, casting a wide net to welcome international artists and homegrown talents, all against the backdrop of Dorset's idyllic parklands. However, the event goes beyond music, expanding into wellness, family-friendly activities, and cultural happenings, all culminating in a well-rounded festival experience.
Year after year, the festival's lineup impresses with its carefully curated selection of both established and emerging artists. In 2023, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy performances from revered acts such as Roisin Murphy, known for her time with Moloko, Brian Jackson, a long-time collaborator of Gil Scott-Heron, and the Sun Ra Arkestra. Also gracing the stages will be contemporary stars like Nubya Garcia, Ezra Collective, and Wu Lu, among others.
In addition, festival-goers can soak up summer vibes with DJ sets from Peterson himself, along with other respected names like Jamz Supernova, Mr. Scruff, and LTJ Bukem. But We Out Here is not just about the music. The festival has a strong commitment to high-quality food and drink offerings, arts and cultural programs, crisp sound and production, family activities, and wellness, all complementing its music-led ethos.
Nestled within the lush wooded parkland of Wimborne St Giles, the festival site offers an enchanting setting for unforgettable summer memories. From the seven-acre lake to woodland walks and tucked-away forest pockets, it's a playground for exploration and relaxation.
We Out Here Festival embraces inclusivity and strives to be accessible for all guests. It works closely with the organization Attitude is Everything to ensure a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their requirements. In addition, the festival seeks to involve the local community, offering discounted tickets for residents of nearby villages.
We Out Here Festival is more than a music event; it's a celebration of connection, community, and creativity. So whether you're a jazz aficionado, a dance music enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the shared energy of a festival, We Out Here provides a unique and inclusive experience for all. As Gilles Peterson himself says,
"I really wanted to bring to the UK a festival that celebrates the elements of UK club culture, and the community that surrounds it, that I have been lucky enough to be a part of over the years."
