Lost Village festival returns to Lincolnshire on 21st-24th August for a bank holiday weekend of cinematic wonder. Now in its 10th year, the event has led the way for boutique festivals across the UK, winning numerous awards in the process. Taking centre stage across the festival’s artwork this year is the tagline ‘Escape Reality’, and that’s what the festival does best. Some 20,000 revellers can expect to get lost in a surreal and labyrinthian landscape just outside Norton Disney. The events programme offers a piece of everything, drawing in some of the biggest names in electronic music, as well those in comedy and academia.
Sonically the festival brings in some mainstream heavy hitters, but equally gives space to underground selectors. The likes of Four Tet, Caribou (live) and Barry Can’t Swim (live) are set to headline the main stage whilst Aurora Halal, Pablo Bozzi and Roza Terenzi offer a slice of something totally different within the forest stages. Legendary DJs Dixon and Damian Lazarus also grace the forest, whilst the iconic Honey Dijon performs live, and French touch legend Cassius makes a rare UK visit.
Over the years, Lost Village has mastered the elements of stage design. There’s a total of nine stages to explore, each with its own identity. From the remnants of an abandoned airbase – including a plane still on site – to the cluster of bath tubs, cars and train carriages at Junkyard, as well as the dodgems at Juniper Park. In every other tree you’ll see a detail, each meticulously designed to create a sense of wonder. The festival encourages exploration, consistently offering the opportunity to get lost and experience something new. By following that approach you’ll quickly find that it enhances the music and creates a truly immersive experience.
Lost Village has built a loyal following due to its vast nature and the fact it’s a weekend more than just music. Revellers can take a light hearted break with some live comedy at The Lost Theatre. It’s an intimate venue that has welcomed the likes of Joel Dommett, Katherine Ryan, Joe Lycett in recent years. Alternatively, The Institute of Curious Minds offers the opportunity to engage in talks and discussions from leading figures from the worlds of music, art, and culture. Previous iterations have seen The Prodigy’s Leroy Thornhill, fashion icon Pam Hogg, and acclaimed filmmaker Irvine Welsh all produce compelling sessions.
The event has won the award for ‘best boutique festival’ numerous times since its inception and that’s an aspect they’ve mastered. Unlike many of its competitors, Lost Village offers an extensive culinary program. Festival-goers have the chance to experience an intimate chef’s table event at 30-seater “Table in the Woods” with sought-after culinary experts. There’s also numerous options to unwind away from the dance floor, with hot tubs and saunas on site as well as yoga classes, sound baths and therapies. There’s independent trade stalls offering unique fashion items and there’s even an arcade to unwind in late at night.
If you’re one of the lucky ones heading to Lost Village then we hope this gives you an idea of what to expect. The programme on offer is extensive and is guaranteed to keep you busy all hours of the day and it’s no wonder tickets instantly sold out. And bring your best outfits! Lost Village sees people go all out every year, embracing the freedom to be their true selves for the long weekend and we encourage you to do the same. See you in the woods!
Follow Lost Village On Instagram
Words: Jake Wright