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Melton Ska Fest 2026: our update to you

If you were with us at Melton Ska Fest this year, thank you. Genuinely. Whether you danced through the whole day or found yourself waiting longer than you should have for a drink, we know this year didn’t go the way we wanted it to, and we owe you a proper explanation.

What happened

Our opening was delayed by a technical equipment failure affecting the site’s power supply. We couldn’t open the gates until we’d confirmed the PA system was fully working — not a decision we were willing to rush, since a working PA is a legal safety requirement for making emergency announcements if they’re ever needed. We know waiting in the heat wasn’t fun, and we’re sorry for that. We could have communicated this better at the time.

Separately, you experienced slower bar service than you should have, and pricing that was outside our control. Both of these issues are being resolved for 2027, but for 2026 we take full responsibility for how they affected your day.

Some answers to issues raised:

  • Bar/drinks pricing: the Town Estate had no control over bar pricing; the vendor controls their own pricing.
  • Food options: one food vendor failed to turn up to the event, leaving our selection reduced in number and breadth.
  • Sound/staging: there were technical issues; with the delayed start, we opted to compress the line-up, removing the DJ between sets so that all bands could play and not have to trim their sets.
  • Music/setlist: repeat of some old favourites was mentioned, and this will be addressed for 2027.
  • Site infrastructure: the Heras fencing is required by our licensing agreement; it is also there to prevent vandalism and theft, so it will have to remain.
  • Affordability/access: The ticket prices equated to £3.50 per band, which we think is pretty good value.

What still went right

Every single act on the bill performed — we didn’t cut or shorten a single set, and by evening, the day was back on schedule. Our toilets worked all day brilliantly (seriously, thank you to that crew). And because we allowed people to come and go from the site, nobody who nipped out for food, water or shade could see the rest of the performances.

What we’re changing for 2027

We’ve already made some firm decisions:

  • Drinks capped at £6 a pint: fixed, and it’ll be on all our marketing, so you can hold us to it
  • Melton Ska Fest becomes a two-day event: with a discounted ticket if you’re coming for both days
  • Ticket prices are not increasing: even though the event is getting bigger; day prices will remain the same, and we are looking at a weekend pass.
  • A clearer FAQ section: with proper detail on dietary and allergy options, a full vendor list published before the event so you know exactly what’s on offer, and clear guidance on bringing your own food if you’ve got young kids or specific dietary needs (this has always been allowed — we just hadn’t made it clear enough)
  • A second public water point: wherever the stage is positioned, whatever the forecast

What’s next

We’re already deep into planning next year, and we’ve got a line-up coming together that we can’t wait to tell you about. We’ll be sharing more in the coming weeks, including a fuller look at what happened this year once our review is complete.

Huge thanks to every artist who played and adapted brilliantly to a tricky day, and to everyone in the community who sent messages of support.

We’ve heard you, we’re fixing what needs fixing, and we’ll see you in 2027.