Christopher BarrettAEG Presents has announced that its LIDO Festival in London’s Victoria Park has been moved from June to August, with some shows cancelled.
The promoter said the event, which debuted last year, must be delayed in order to “protect park ground conditions”.
The Maribou State headlined show day has been rescheduled for 31 August but AEG said it had not been possible to reschedule the 12 June event headlined by CMAT and the 14 June event led by Bombay Bicycle Club. Ticketholders will receive a full refund.
AEG Presents said it had carried out a successful reseeding and improvement programme after last summer’s drought led to dust issues but more time was needed to let the ground fully recover: “Following one of the wettest winters in recent history, our advisors recommended giving these newly improved areas a little more time before starting the festival programme. This ensures the progress made is protected and continues to benefit the community throughout the spring and early summer.”
It said London Borough of Tower Hamlets (LBTH) and the artists involved in LIDO have been fully supportive of the changes, and that the promoter’s financial commitments and support for community programmes in the borough remain fully protected. LBTH has also confirmed that LIDO’s organisers can continue to deliver proposed capital investment for Victoria Park.
AEG Presents UK & European Festivals CEO Jim King said, “We’re committed to delivering the best and most sustainable event experiences for fans, artists and the community, and to doing so responsibly. The improvement works mean Victoria Park is in great condition for everyday use, and this one‑off adjustment simply protects that progress before hosting a major event. Moving LIDO to August means stronger events this year and a park that’s even better placed for the years ahead. We thank LBTH for their understanding in permitting this accommodation, which supports the best outcome for park users and local residents.”