The Womad festival returned in 2025 with a hugely welcome edition that brought together global music, dance, and community at its new home Neston Park. After a year off, the festival proved why it remains a cornerstone of world music celebrations, blending intimate workshops with electrifying main-stage performances.
New Venue, Familiar Spirit
This year’s move to Neston Park introduced an arboretum layout that felt more like a village than a sprawling festival ground. The cosier setup meant shorter walks from camping areas and a stronger sense of community. Phone signal was nearly nonexistent, forcing attendees to rely on in-person meet-ups rather than group chats – a welcome digital detox.
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Highlights from the Weekend
Reggae legend Barrington Levy delivered Friday’s standout moment when he refused to stick to strict stage times. “Mr Promoter, don’t invite me to your festival and tell me to get off the stage. I’m fucking playing as long as I like,” he declared, backed by an adoring crowd. He launched into Black Roses and Here I Come, uniting seniors, families, and kids in a fist-pumping singalong.
Greentea Peng closed Friday with a sultry set accompanied by an all-female brass section that sounded remarkably tight despite limited rehearsal. Brazilian star Daniela Mercury stole the show on Saturday with a fierce political charge, using visuals of favelas and Indigenous tribes to call for democracy and conservation. She closed with Michael Jackson’s They Don’t Care About Us.
More Than Music
The festival’s talks stage addressed political instability and the rise of rightwing populism. Green Party leader Zack Polanski drew a packed tent as he detailed arms sales and grassroots activism. Morning workshops ranged from West African djembe drumming to laughing yoga, while wood-fired tubs offered relaxation amid distant basslines. The background to this story is set out in Ceilidh Musical Review: A Joyous Celebration of Scottish Culture.
Table: Old Venue vs. New Venue
| Feature | Previous Site | Neston Park (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Sprawling fields | Intimate arboretum |
| Camping access | Long walks | Shorter distances |
| Phone signal | Spotty | Nearly nonexistent |
| Community feel | Large crowds | Village-like atmosphere |
Key Takeaways
- Womad festival thrives on blurring the line between performer and audience.
- Neston Park offers a cosier, more connected environment.
- Political and social messages are woven into music and talks.
- Workshops and activities provide immersive experiences beyond the stage.
- The festival is a must for lovers of global music and cultural exchange.
FAQ
When did Womad festival return in 2025?
The Womad festival returned in 2025 after a year off, taking place at its new home Neston Park.
What made this Womad edition different?
The new arboretum layout created a village-like atmosphere, with no mobile signal encouraging real-life interactions. Workshops, panels, and spontaneous performances enriched the experience.
Who were the standout performers?
Barrington Levy, Greentea Peng, and Daniela Mercury delivered unforgettable sets, each bringing unique energy and messages.
Whether you’re a seasoned festivalgoer or a first-timer, the Womad festival offers a joyful, planet-spanning experience that celebrates music, culture, and human connection. Start planning your next visit today.
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