Festivals

Christian festivals offer a vibrant, shared expression of faith — through music, teaching, creativity, and community. Whether you’re camping in a field with thousands of believers or attending a weekend event at a retreat centre, faith-based festivals can be a powerful part of a spiritual journey.

This guide outlines what to expect, how to prepare, and which festivals to consider for an enriching Christian experience.

What Is a Christian Festival?

A Christian festival typically blends worship, Bible teaching, seminars, and creative arts in a multi-day event. Some are focused on worship and revival, others on family activities, youth engagement, or theological exploration. They vary in size, denomination, and emphasis, but all aim to encourage spiritual growth and fellowship.

Types of Christian Festivals

Family Festivals

Designed with all ages in mind, these festivals include children’s and youth programmes, family worship sessions, and practical seminars for parents.

Worship & Music Festivals

Centred around live worship, these events may include performances from Christian artists, mass prayer sessions, and extended times of musical praise.

Youth-Focused Gatherings

Ideal for teens and young adults, youth festivals often offer high-energy worship, relatable speakers, and space to explore faith and identity.

Denominational Events

Some festivals are run by specific denominations or movements, such as Methodist, Anglican, Catholic, or Charismatic networks. These offer worship in familiar styles and theological traditions.

Popular UK Christian Festivals

New Wine

A well-established summer festival combining worship, family activities, and spiritual renewal. Known for strong youth and kids’ programmes.

Greenbelt

Held over August bank holiday weekend, Greenbelt blends faith, arts, and justice. Expect live music, talks, worship, comedy, and creativity.

Spring Harvest

Held across multiple locations during Easter, Spring Harvest offers worship, Bible teaching, and family activities with a practical focus.

Soul Survivor (legacy events)

Though Soul Survivor’s main festivals ended in 2019, its influence continues through events like Dreaming the Impossible and Limitless Festival, aimed at young people.

Big Church Festival

A two-day celebration of worship music in West Sussex. Features performances from UK and international artists across multiple stages.

Preparing for a Festival

Tickets & Bookings

  • Book early — many festivals offer discounted early-bird rates.

  • Check if you need separate tickets for accommodation, meals, or youth sessions.

Accommodation

  • Most festivals offer camping, with optional upgrades for pre-pitched tents or glamping.

  • Alternatively, check for local hotels or B&Bs if you prefer not to stay on site.

  • Family and accessible facilities vary by site — read details carefully before booking.

Packing List

  • Tent, sleeping bags, and mats (if camping)

  • Wellies and waterproofs — British festivals often involve mud

  • Reusable water bottle and snacks

  • Bible, notebook, torch

  • Chairs or a picnic blanket

  • Power bank for charging phones

Getting the Most Out of It

Plan, But Stay Flexible

Festivals often offer dozens of sessions, talks, and workshops. Mark a few “must-attends” but leave space for spontaneous choices.

Join the Worship

Don’t be shy — these gatherings thrive on open participation. Whether singing, clapping, or sitting quietly, your presence matters.

Look for Quiet Spaces

Most festivals provide prayer tents, reflection rooms, or chapels. These are ideal for retreating from the crowd and listening to God.

Engage With Others

Part of the joy of festivals is meeting believers from other walks of life. Be open to conversation, prayer, and shared meals.

For Families

  • Many festivals have dedicated children’s zones, staffed by DBS-checked teams.

  • Pushchairs or wagons are useful for younger children on large sites.

  • Bring ear defenders for little ones if attending loud worship sessions.

For First-Timers

  • Choose a smaller or more local event to start with.

  • Team up with friends or your church for shared camping and support.

  • Check out the festival’s code of conduct or community guidelines beforehand.

Beyond the UK

There are many international Christian festivals worth exploring:

  • Taizé (France) – Ecumenical community with weekly youth gatherings

  • Hillsong Conference (Australia, UK) – Worship and teaching on a large scale

  • World Youth Day (Catholic) – International pilgrimage and celebration for young Catholics

Staying Connected Afterwards

Many festivals offer follow-up resources, online content, and regional gatherings to help attendees stay spiritually energised. Consider:

  • Joining a local home group

  • Revisiting recorded talks or worship sessions

  • Sharing reflections with others from your church

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