Womad festival returned in 2025 with a hugely welcome, joyous celebration of global music at its new home, Neston Park. The boundary between spectator and performer dissolves entirely, offering an immersive experience unlike any other.
Womad Festival Review: A New Venue and Atmosphere
The festival moved to Neston Park after a year off, and the new arboretum layout creates a cosier, village-like setup. Phone signal is nearly nonexistent, forcing attendees into analogue meet-ups and deeper connections. The trek from camping areas is mercifully shorter, letting you start your morning at your own pace—whether through a west African djembe workshop, laughing yoga, or relaxing in a wood-fired tub.
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Musical Highlights: Off-Script Magic
Reggae legend Barrington Levy provided Friday’s standout moment by rejecting strict act times. He turned to the side of the stage to deliver a blunt ultimatum: “Mr Promoter, don’t invite me to your festival and tell me to get off the stage. I’m fucking playing as long as I like.” The crowd backed him, and he launched back into Black Roses and Here I Come, locking in a crowd of nodding seniors, families, and kids.
| Artist | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Barrington Levy | Refused to leave stage, performed extended set |
| Greentea Peng | Sultry set with all-female brass section |
| Daniela Mercury | Political charge with visuals of favelas and Indigenous tribes |
Political Edge and Talks Stage
Brazilian singer Daniela Mercury dominated with fierce political energy, calling out for democracy and closing with Michael Jackson’s They Don’t Care About Us. The talks stage directly confronted political instability and rightwing populism, drawing a packed tent for Green Party leader Zack Polanski.
Key Takeaways from Womad 2025
- Intimate, village-like atmosphere at Neston Park
- No cell service encourages real-world interaction
- Artists go off-script for unforgettable moments
- Political themes interwoven through music and talks
- Diverse lineup spanning reggae, Brazilian pop, and soul
FAQ
Where was Womad 2025 held?
Womad 2025 took place at Neston Park, a new venue after a year off, offering a cosier arboretum layout.
What made Barrington Levy’s set special at Womad?
Barrington Levy refused to stick to scheduled act times, extending his set with classics like Black Roses and Here I Come, backed by the crowd.
Did Womad have political themes?
Yes, Daniela Mercury’s set highlighted conservation and democracy, while the talks stage addressed political instability and rightwing populism.
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