Kendal Calling 2024: A Celebration of Music, Community, and Joy
For four radiant days, Lowther Deer Park became the heart of Cumbria, welcoming forty thousand festival-goers to Kendal Calling 2024. Celebrating its 19th consecutive sell-out year, the festival transformed the serene park into a lively, joyous community. As it gears up for its 20th edition in 2025, Kendal Calling 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience filled with remarkable performances and a profound sense of togetherness.
An Impressive Lineup
From the opening moments, the festival site was alive with an energy that never waned. The main stage featured an impressive mix of legendary artists and emerging talent. Paul Heaton, accompanied by the talented Rianne Downey, kicked off the festivities on Thursday with a stunning performance under a golden sunset. Declan McKenna and The Hunna kept the momentum going, ensuring the crowd remained energized and engaged.
Friday continued the excitement with standout performances from Hot Wax, CMAT, Flowerovlove, and DEADLETTER. The K’s, Katy B, and Keane kept the audience enthralled, while Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds delivered a set that will go down in Kendal Calling history as one of the best.
Blending Nostalgia with Fresh Talent
Saturday was a mix of nostalgic hits and fresh sounds. The Streets headlined with their iconic mid-00s tracks, while The Lightning Seeds, Kate Nash, and Peace brought a wave of musical nostalgia. Tim Peaks FM offered a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry with engaging discussions featuring The Charlatans’ Tim Burgess and BBC 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins. Comedy also took center stage with Russell Howard entertaining the crowd with his humor.
The final day opened with Revivalry, a young band discovered by Kendal Calling founder Ben Robinson. Their energetic performance at just 16 years old highlighted the festival’s commitment to showcasing new talent. The Lancashire Hotpots, Gary Neville’s surprise DJ set with Tim Burgess, and performances by Pale Waves, Royal Otis, and Antony Szmierek ensured the excitement continued until the very end.
A Captivating Finale
Paolo Nutini closed the festival with a mesmerizing set, captivating the audience with his soulful voice and emotional songs. His performance, a blend of heartfelt ballads and groovy jams, provided a perfect ending to a weekend filled with music, laughter, and community spirit.
Beyond the Music
Kendal Calling 2024 was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of culture and community. The festival grounds were vibrant with colorful flags and themed outfits, transforming the park into a visual spectacle. Attendees explored the woodlands of Lost Eden, enjoyed a brew at Tim Peaks Diner, or simply relaxed and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere.
The festival’s commitment to sustainability was evident throughout, from its ‘Leave Nothing But Memories’ initiative to its carbon-neutral productions. This dedication to environmental responsibility, combined with the festival’s inclusive and family-friendly vibe, made Kendal Calling a standout event in the festival landscape.
Looking Forward
As Kendal Calling anticipates its 20th anniversary in 2025, this year’s festival has set a high standard for the future. With tickets soon going on sale and anticipation building, Kendal Calling continues to be a beacon of joy, music, and community, promising even more magic in the years ahead.