SOUND FUTURES FESTIVAL TO BRING A REIMAGINED FAIR DAY TO ASHINGTON THIS SUMMER
Ashington's much-loved Fair Day is being reimagined for 2026 as the Sound Futures Festival — a vibrant, youth-led celebration of music, creativity and community taking place at People’s Park on Saturday 22nd August, from 11am to 6pm.
Led by YMCA Northumberland with partners across the Youth Collaboration Partnership, and supported by Ashington Town Council, the festival marks a fresh new chapter for the event, celebrating local talent, community pride, and the young people whose ideas and hard work are shaping the day.
Visitors can look forward to a full day of family-friendly entertainment, live music, activities, fairground rides and community stalls, with something for people of all ages. At the centre of it all will be a main stage showcasing talented young musicians and bands from across the area, alongside an acoustic and open mic stage giving even more young performers the chance to take part.
The line-up confirmed so far includes Bear Park, Cardboard Church, Ben Harwood, State Label, Funky Biscuit, Y-Music, Keiran Simpson, Tanzeela Ruby — with more acts to be announced.
Around the site, visitors will find themed zones covering activities, sport, a market, food, and information and guidance, where local organisations will showcase the services and opportunities available to young people and families in Ashington. The aim is a relaxed village festival feel, with the stage as the focal point and everything forming one shared festival environment.
Keep an eye out for the festival banners popping up around the town— and if you spot one, snap a photo and share it! Everyone is encouraged to share the festival on social media and spread the word locally to help make the day a huge success.
Further announcements, including more acts and full details of what to expect on the day, will follow over the coming weeks. Follow YMCA Northumberland on social media for all the latest updates: https://en-gb.facebook.com/YMCANorthumberlandNE/ and visit the events page for more information.
