I couldn’t find a decent music festival – so I created my own

Jess and Will Lardner spent a decade creating their perfect festival – Homestead.

In the bustling world of festivals, it’s easy to assume that the bigger they are, the better they must be. But behind the colourful chaos of large-scale events, there’s a quieter truth: the world of independent festivals can be a lonely one. The fields may be filled with thousands of revellers, and the air buzzing with sound, but those brave enough to launch their own festivals often face an isolating journey, working tirelessly behind the scenes.

The past few years have been challenging for those running independent events. As we moved into 2025, the UK has seen 221 fewer independent festivals compared to 2019. While there are numerous reasons for this decline, it’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, it’s the perfect moment to rethink what festivals can – and should – be.

At a time when society has become disconnected, the demand for human connection and shared experiences hasn’t faded. Yes, the realities of rising living costs have made it harder for people to attend multiple festivals each year, but the fundamental need for belonging, for those weekend getaways that feed our spirits, remains strong.

After more than a decade running a beloved family festival, my husband Will and I came to realise that it was time to evolve. We’d seen the highs and lows of the industry, learned what worked and what didn’t, and understood how important it was to create something different, something more in tune with what festival-goers need in today’s world.

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This led to the creation of Homestead, our new festival that challenges the traditional model. It’s an event built on sustainability, simplicity, and the desire to strip back the excess. We wanted to create something intimate – a gathering for a select group of people where the emphasis is on music, connection and creating meaningful memories, rather than flashy stages or commercialisation.

One of the key decisions in this evolution was to limit the event to over-25s. The goal is to create a vibe that feels more grounded and relaxed – think of it like the vibe of a great wedding, minus the formality. By focusing on a smaller, more curated group, we aim to foster a space for genuine interaction, rather than just offering a mass spectacle.

What’s more, we’ve taken a bold approach with our ticketing: everything is included. From parking to hot showers to your morning Bloody Mary, your ticket covers all the essentials and little luxuries you’d normally have to pay extra for. It’s a way to simplify the experience and make sure no one feels taken for a ride at a time when disposable incomes are tighter than ever.

You might be wondering, why is this so important in the broader festival landscape? The truth is large-scale, corporate festivals are increasingly monopolised by commercial interests. With rising ticket prices and sponsored content, the community spirit that made festivals special is being eroded. Independent festivals like ours are an opportunity for creativity to thrive outside the constraints of big business, and they allow new voices and fresh ideas to shape the festival experience.

Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. From sourcing local, seasonal food to working with environmentally conscious suppliers, we’re committed to creating an event that’s fun but also responsible. We’re aware of the impact festivals can have and we want to do our part in ensuring that Homestead leaves a positive legacy.

At a time when society feels increasingly fragmented, independent festivals offer a vital antidote: a chance to reconnect with each other, to step away from our screens and to immerse ourselves in something real and tangible. In the face of increasing pressure on both our time and wallets, festivals like Homestead make it possible to still enjoy life’s simple pleasures, whether that’s sharing a meal with friends, dancing under the stars or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

And by attending, you’ll not only be supporting a new independent festival but also helping ensure that this kind of meaningful experience continues to thrive.

Let’s keep the heart of festival culture alive, together.

Homestead Festival takes place 18-20 July at Fernhill Farm in Somerset.

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