Friday night fun as Retrofestival returns to Newbury Showground
A celebration of times gone by is in Newbury this weekend, as Retro Festival returns to the showground.
Today (Friday) is the first of three days dedicated to music, memorabilia, classic cars and vintage markets.
Three stages are set up for a variety of acts across the weekend, and there is an airshow and an arena area.
What entertainment is happening at Retro Festival today (Friday)?
There are three stages.
·The Black Hangar will specialise in rock n roll and rockabilly
The Ricky-Tick will feature 60s, mod, soul and Nothern Soul
·The Spitfire Pavilion will be 20s and 30s.
Tonight, The Black Hangar stage will feature music from swing band The Rhythm Slingers at 7pm, four-piece rock n rollers The Zodiacs at 8.30pm, and jive band the Earl Jackson Four at 10pm.
Between sets, DJ Stompin’ Steve will provide some tunes.
The Spitfire Pavilion will see Big Marv and the City Slickers perform jazz favourites from 7pm, vinyl DJ Howlin Wolf Record Hop, and, at 8.45pm and 10pm, The Hot House Combo, bringing some of the jazzier sounds of the 1930s.
The venue is hosted by Alan and Lisa McGurk.
Martin Fuggles will host The Ricky Tick Stage.
At 7.30pm, he will introduce 60s-influenced rhythm and blues band The Hornets, and at 8.45pm and 10pm The Small Fakers, a tribute act to The Small Faces.
Classic cars
Organisers are hopeful that 1,000 classic cars and motorbikes will be coming to Newbury for the weekend.
They will include military pre- and post-war vehicles, a recreation of a field hospital, miniature steam engines – and full-sized ones.
Scooters from the Mod era will also be on show, as will classic caravans.
What else is happening at Retrofestival?
A vintage funfair will be a popular attraction for visitors, and it will include a wall of death.
People will be able to try their hand at classic fairground games.
Food stalls will provide tasty treats.
For those who want to look the part, a hairdresser will give people the opportunity to style their hair – the first time they have come to the event.
The salon is set out to look like it’s from the 1940s, and services will include make-up as well as hair.
Shopping at Retrofestival
There are more than 100 traders coming to Retrofestival, offering a wide range of items.
They include car parts, vintage clothes, retro signs, toys, toiletries, dog treats, artworks, vinyl music, rugs, upcycled items, and memorabilia.
Tutt’s Clump Cider will have a stall, along with other food and drink firms.
Where does Retrofestival take place?
Retro Festival takes place in Newbury Showground, Priors Court, Hermitage, Thatcham RG18 9QZ.
For those who haven’t been there before, follow signs from Junction 13 of the M4.
How do I get there?
A shuttle bus runs from the town centre entrance to Newbury Railway Station on Saturday and Sunday.
Departures are 10am, 11.30am and 12.30pm.
It goes to the Chieveley Services Travelodge before heading to the main entrance of the showground.
The return trips depart from the showground at 6pm, 7.30pm and 8.30pm.
What about car parking at Newbury Showground?
A free car park is available on site. Premium parking close to the main entrance is £5, and should be booked in advance.
What are the opening times for Retrofestival on Friday?
The festival is open from 6pm to 11pm on the opening night.
Tickets to Retrofestival
Weekend and camping tickets are now sold out, but tickets will be available on the gate.
Entry on Friday night is from 6pm.
They cost £15 for adults, £5 for children aged 10 to 16. Under 10s get in free, while parking is £5.
More details about Retrofestival
The website www.retrofestival.co.uk contains more details about the festival, including a comprehensive question and answer page.
