The WOMAD festival (cap. 40,000) has announced a new location in Wiltshire for its 2026 run, along with a planned hiatus in 2025 following its 42nd successful year and over 300 events held worldwide.

Like many festivals and events, WOMAD has faced challenges post-COVID.

According to the team, they are currently in the process of re-evaluating, regenerating, and reinvigorating everything they do and determining their future direction.

The WOMAD team issued a statement, thanking all of its supporters, saying:

“A huge thank you to the wonderful staff at Charlton Park for welcoming us over the past 17 years and to the communities of Malmesbury, Charlton, and neighbouring villages for embracing WOMAD each year. We’re grateful to the Festival-Goers, Artists, Crew, Contractors, Volunteers, and Traders who make WOMAD a cherished festival, celebrating global diversity and unity through music, arts, dance, and culture.”

Over the next 12 months, WOMAD is moving full steam ahead with festivals around the world, including WOMADelaide, WOMAD New Zealand, and WOMAD Cáceres. Plans are also underway for events in Las Palmas, Brazil, and Chile, with a special UK event in the works to bring a taste of the unique WOMAD experience next year.

 

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