Godiva Festival
Calling all party parents! If you’re looking to give your heir apparent’s a fantastic week full of fun and frolics, to share in one of your favourite past times growing up (or just simply can’t get a babysitter!); one that is full to the brim with the finest eclectic music and a set of festivities that will suit many a generation; allow me to present Godiva! A weekend-long extravaganza that prides itself on combining the best of the unknown in the Midland’s area with a host of world-class talent; taking place this year between the 3rd and 5th of July, so not too long to go now!
The UK’s biggest free family festival (yes I said free!) is the pinnacle of Coventry’s event calendar and is steeped in history; deriving from the ‘Great Fair’ that took place way back in 1678 and taking its name from the famous Anglo-Saxon noblewoman ‘lady Godiva’, whose claim to fame was a naked horseback ride the city streets in response to her husband’s oppressive taxation demands (but that’s enough of the learning!). The celebration is held at the War Memorial Park and has been known to attract upwards of 80,000 visitors to the 12 acre site; where they’ve been treated to some of the biggest rock, pop, hip hop and acoustic acts over the years; including such prestigious names as Kasabian, The Fratellis, Mercury Rev, Happy Mondays and The Enemy.
And this year’s bill is no different; with the likes of The Wombats, Pulled About by Horses, Embrace, Fun Lovin’ Criminals and 2014 ‘Godiva Calling’ winners The Prophets all on show; and that’s just on the main stage! The Rock/Rhythm tent will provide you with the musical stylings of Slaves, JME, and ex ‘The Voice’ contestant Letitia George amongst others; whilst on the Acoustic Stage you’ll enjoy the musical harmonies of some fabulous musicians, such as that of Emma Stephenson, He is a Pegasus, Joe DiMarco and Little Bird, or ‘Jade’; and for the party animals that want to pick their own playlists, make your way over to the paradise tent at 7:30pm on the Saturday for a three hour silent disco (or you could just stand outside and laugh at those seemingly shaking their bootie to absolutely nothing, if you’re into that kind of thing), or even earlier for more great live music. Brought to you by Radio Plus on the Saturday and the Sunday, the Community stage will allow you the privilege of listening to some of the best that the area has to offer; and for those aspiring musicians, the Urban Youth tent is available from which to gain advice on the music field. Also, why not check out this year’s Godiva Calling winners? You never know, you might be one of the first to see the next big thing!
As if the music isn’t enough for you, there is a multitude of activities that will ensure that you and your entourage have the ultimate fun-filled weekend (I’m looking at you dads!); complete with petting farm, funfair and a Disney Summer Roadshow! Get those creative juices flowing at the Make Space tent, where you’ll create art and “things” from a variety of materials; or make your way over to the Charity Village and take a look at the many stalls on show, make a purchase, feel good about yourself; after-which, why not head over to the official festival stalls and purchase a t-shirt to remember the day by (or to use as sacrificial clothing is things get messy). For an afternoon tipple, there are a number of family friendly bars dotted about in the music field; and there are also a number of food stalls with a wide variety of festival foods from which to soak up such a beverage intake. For the sporty amongst us, Coventry on the Move and YMCA have a wealth of opportunities available from which to have fun and get active; or for those looking for something a little less strenuous, there is a Bowls Roadshow and Penalty shootout challenges; and if you’re a little more daring, there is an ever popular bungie jump to be found on the main field alongside a 140ft Zipwire!
So, the big question; what more could a festival family want? Though beware, there is no camping available at this event; however there are numerous places to stay in the Coventry area and with as much going on as there is, it would be a crime not to make a weekend of it!
By Calum Dewsbury.