Wild Fields Festival Debuts in Norwich, Celebrating Community, Music, and Sustainability

In a vibrant celebration of music and community, the Wild Fields Festival made its debut in Norwich, headlined by the acclaimed Ezra Collective. The festival, organized by Ben Streets, has been designed as a natural evolution from its city-based predecessor, Wild Path, aiming to foster a sense of belonging while immersing attendees in a diverse array of performances. Streets expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, noting that the joy of the crowd would validate all the labor and dedication poured into the event. "It's all about building that community that we began to build with Wild Path... it's bringing that into a field basically and inviting as many people as possible," he said. This year’s lineup also features a variety of talented artists, including the renowned spoken word artist Kae Tempest and Zambian singer and rapper Sampa The Great, ensuring that the festival serves as a cultural hub that resonates with a wide audience. A standout feature of the festival is its partnership with Climate Live UK, which has introduced a distinctive touch to the event with its big pink, solar-powered bus stage. This collaboration underscores the festival's commitment to sustainability, an aspect that Streets has prioritized throughout the planning process. "Running a festival on this scale in a field was a learning experience," he noted, highlighting the extensive research he undertook to ensure effective management of everything from security to environmental impact. With a focus on creating an "eclectic mix of artists," Streets emphasized that each performance is part of a thoughtfully curated experience intended to take attendees on a musical journey throughout the day. "We've really curated a journey throughout the day," he added, suggesting that the festival isn't just about individual performances but rather about the overall experience it offers. Beyond music, Wild Fields enriches its program with poetry performances, debates, and wellness sessions, offering something for everyone and fostering a multi-dimensional cultural experience. As the festival unfolds, it’s clear that Streets' vision is about more than just entertainment; it's about nurturing a sense of community and shared experience, transforming a simple field into a space of connection and joy. The festival’s debut promises to be a memorable occasion, leaving an indelible mark on Norwich's cultural landscape.