Now in its 26th year, the festival continues to attract thousands of enthusiasts who come to relive favourite eras, reconnect with treasured memories and celebrate Britain’s rich motoring and cultural heritage. With three live music stages, hundreds of classic vehicles and a programme packed with entertainment, Retro Festival remains one of Berkshire’s standout summer events.
Sally Dodds, Head of Events at Out & About Live, added: “Retro Festival is all about stepping into the eras people love most – the music, the style, the cars and the culture. The atmosphere is truly incredible, as visitors fully embrace it, whether that’s dressing in vintage outfits, dancing to swing bands or showing off their well restored classics.”
This year’s event features:
- Three themed music stages – Rock N Roll & Rockabilly at the Black Hangar; Swing and dance bands in the Spitfire Pavilion and Ska; 80s Mod revival and Northern Soul at the Ricky Tick
- One of the UK’s largest classic vehicle displays, including cars, motorbikes, campervans, custom builds and military vehicles
- The famous Wall of Death, funfair attractions and family activities
- Over 200 stalls across the Shopping Village and Spitfire Vintage Market
- Dance classes including Jive, Swing and Northern Soul Food & drink markets across the festival
- Camping and glamping options from Thursday to Monday, plus day tickets for visitors
Recent studies on nostalgia
Retro Festival popularity demonstrates a broader national trend.
Studies show people aged 40 to 70 experience nostalgia more frequently and more intensely than younger generations. For many, events like Retro Festival provide a positive and uplifting way to reconnect with the music, memories and moments that shaped them. Dodds added: “That’s the magic of Retro Festival. It brings people together to celebrate the eras they loved growing up and for a lot of our visitors, that’s incredibly meaningful. It’s fun, it’s social and it gives people a chance to relive the best parts of their lives.”