Just So Festival

Just So Festival first appeared at Barnswood Scout Camp, next to Rudyard Lake back in 2010. It's where we get the name of the festival from, Rudyard Kipling's Just So Stories.

The very first incarnation of our Lantern Parade!

With a love of stories and childhood escapades at its heart, Just So Festival enables families to step out of their day to day lives and into a wonderland of world class literature, arts, theatre, dance, music, comedy and creative pursuits together.

Just So takes audiences (from bumps to great grandparents) on a unique expedition of mischief and mayhem, to lands full of magical midnight feasts, curious creatures, hidden retreats, top notch food, drink and boutique camping options and breathtaking beauty.

John Hegley, comic-comedian-poet, has been spotted at the festival a fair few times. Here he is in 2014.

Another audience favourite, brass band, The Baghdaddies can usually be found knocking around.

The Fabularium are a theatre group we often work with to deliver beautiful created outdoor performances for families.

One of our all-time favourite story-tellers, Ian Douglas seen here. You'll find by the campfire, rain or shine!

Funambulist, The Great Bullzini, took to the skies in 2018, when he graced us with a highwire performance on the Saturday night of the festival.

Audience fave, David Gibb, never lets us down and packs out a crowd each year. Teddy bear at the disco anyone?

Each festival ends with the Carnival of the Animals! A giant parade across the festival where each animal group (bees, owls, stags, fox, frog, fish & lion) gathers together to chant and cheer their way to the main stage.

And after the Carnival of the Animals Championship ceremony, everyone throws their best shapes for the final band of the weekend. Here's The Zong Zing All Stars poised to get everyone grooving!