Wasing Estate announce return of Solstice celebrations with globally acclaimed sitarist, composer and activist Anoushka Shankar
Wasing Estate have just announced the return of its Solstice celebrations for 2025, now reimagined as a weekend festival hosted at beautiful venue – The Woodland at Wasing.
Taking place from Friday, June 20 to Sunday 22, the festival celebrates the Rite of Summer and promises a weekend of unforgettable musical experiences, featuring performances by incredible artists Anoushka Shankar, Salif Keita, Nubiyan Twist, K.O.G., and The Turbans.
Further acts are to be announced.
For this one magical weekend, Wasing invites concert goers to come together to mark the summer solstice, which takes place on the same day everywhere on the planet, connecting everyone in a truly global moment.
The Fireside Sessions will spark the solstice celebration's shift from day to night with special performances around the fire.
For those seeking a free-spirited experience, The Fireside Sessions takes place as an evening concert by the Sacred Glade fire on the estate, giving a moment to connect with nature and the solstice vibes under the stars.
The following morning a guided Sunrise Ceremony will take place at dawn to welcome the new sun.
The artists:
Anoushka Shankar is a globally acclaimed sitarist, composer, and activist whose musical journey spans three decades and bridges cultures, genres, and traditions. With thirteen solo albums, Grammy® nominations, and an Ivor Novello nomination, Anoushka has become known for her virtuosic sitar playing, genre-defying compositions, and bold experiments with global, electronic, jazz, and neo-classical music. She has played at Newbury Spring Festival and completely wowed the audiences.
The daughter of legendary sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, Anoushka began her professional career at 13, performing worldwide with her father before embarking on a solo career. Her groundbreaking albums—such as Rise, Breathing Underwater, Land of Gold, and Traveller—blend Indian classical music with diverse influences, earning her international acclaim.
Back in 2018, giant of African music Salif Keita announced his retirement. However now at the age of 75 the afro-pop champion dubbed ‘The Golden Voice of Africa’ is back. Having spent more than four decades at the forefront of his craft, whilst simultaneously fighting for the rights of albinos and devoting his whole life to defending the right to be different, he is a legend both musically and socially. Do not miss this rare opportunity to see one of the most adventurous, gloriously soulful singer-songwriters on the planet.
International legends The Turbans bind together musics from ‘manywhere’ with their explosive live show. Sonically huge and visually arresting, they are a powerhouse of talent. With its members gathered from Turkey, Bulgaria, Israel, Iran, Greece and England they bring their vibrant and unique sound to audiences who can do nothing more than smile, dance and shout for joy. Their aim is to bring music to the people, young and old alike, mixing vibrant spontaneity and authenticity with multi-genre instrumental and vocal excellence. One people, one planet.
Nubiyan Twist are a blend of virtuosic players, skilled producers and inspired composers join forces to create a unique, infectious sound drawing on jazz, hip-hop, afrobeat, dancehall, soul, reggae and dance music - expect ultra-tight musicianship and a powerful, big band sound. Their vibrant new album - Find Your Flame – features special guest appearances from Nile Rodgers, Seun Kuti, corto.alto and more, seamlessly weaving together global grooves, soul and jazz.
Kweku Sackey aka K.O.G (Kweku of Ghana) is a multi-dimensional creative force, combining exquisite writing skills with shamanistic live performance, fierce raps, perfectly on pitch singing across a massive vocal range and some absolutely wicked dance moves. Not to mention his skills as a percussionist, arranger, bandleader and art director. A true poet and storyteller, he uses a mix of English, Pidgin and Ga to paint sonic pictures that reach deep into the souls of everyone ready to listen.
Set on the Wasing Estate, The Woodland is a stunning enclave right in the heart of the countryside. A unique and mindful space; this is a truly transportive venue to see defining live acts, fully immersed in nature.
See 2024 highlights at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2cpAuNZpN4
Wasing Estate:
Wasing Estate itself is heralded for the way it breaks the mould for country estates and this ethos is reflected in the concerts. Solstice is alcohol free, allowing guests to be truly connected and present in the moment.
This year’s event follows Solstice At Wasing's hugely successful event in 2024, which featured sensational shows from the likes of Nick Mulvey and Rodrigo y Gabriela.
“Wasing sees things differently. That we are inherently part of nature and that what harms the planet ultimately harms us. Everything is connected.
“As one of the most diverse rural estates in England, Wasing is truly unique - a special place to celebrate, connect, grow and heal. The Estate is home to one of the finest wedding venues in the country and is a stunning space where exceptional events are hosted, including immersive musical experiences in woodland amphitheatre, The Mount.
“Wasing’s farm underpins its 'Estate to Plate' ethos by providing delicious organic produce and Wasing Wellbeing offers the opportunity to connect with self, each other and nature through rejuvenating retreats & wild swimming.”
Tickets are available now at www.wasing.co.uk/solstice
