Max SteventonBackup Tech’s Village Fete fundraising event will return on 9 July for its 12th year, with organisers confirming a change of location.
After more than a decade of being held in Surrey in support of industry charity Backup Tech, the event will move to a new venue in the north of England. Organisers said the decision followed feedback from across the live events industry, citing geographical accessibility as a barrier for some attendees.
The relocation is intended to allow greater participation while retaining the core structure and purpose of the event, according to organisers. The new site is expected to provide increased capacity and facilities to support a larger number of attendees and activities. Organisers have not yet disclosed the venue.
The Village Fete will continue to raise funds for Backup Tech, which provides support to professionals working in production, technical, touring and live events. In 2024, the event raised a record-breaking £56,000
Planned activities for the 2026 edition include the return of established elements such as the go-karting race, Flight Case Relay, Bake Off and Veg Off.
Further details, including the confirmed venue and full programme, are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Backup Tech chair Lee Dennison said, “The Village Fete belongs to the whole industry, not just one region. We’ve listened, and we’re evolving. This new home gives us more space, better infrastructure, and the capacity to welcome even more of our community through the gates.”