Shambala Festival



The Shambala Festival is an annual four-day music festival in Northamptonshire, England. The daily capacity of the festival is 15,000 people and it sells out every year. The exact location is not disclosed until attendees buy a ticket. The event first took place in 2000.

It features a variety of music, including rock, pop, folk and world music. There are also independent films, workshops, talks and debates, comedy, a fresh organic market, fair trade coffee, practical demonstrations, a speakers' corner, site art (a new art trail and a range of get-involved sculpture) and "music with a mission". Permaculturists from across the UK create a welcoming garden/ workshop space incorporating art, crafts and sounds. Many activities address cultural awareness, the environment and rights. Children are able to add their messages to the Rights Tree, to be posted on the website. Kids' activities include a full and diverse program of activities for all ages, such as creative workshops (e.g. shadow dancing), trampolines, circus fun, games, music, and a samba procession on Sunday.

Many attendees dress in costumes in accordance with the annual theme.

Accidents and incidents
During the 2023 festival, Nigerian-British poet Gboyega Odubanjo was reported missing after failing to turn up for his scheduled performance. His body was discovered a few days later. Northamptonshire Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.