Clarence Park Festival, Introduction

Clarence Park Festival is presented by The Wakefield Music Collective which is a not for profit organisation run by music loving volunteers. Formed in 1991 the aim was to promote live, local music as well as providing help, advice and information for both established and new bands looking for a break, whether on a local level or nationally. At 11am on the 10th of August 1991 The Muldoons took to the stage to kick off Clarence Rocks Off. As with all good festivals the rain fell but 3,000 live music lovers turned up to watch the event. Other performances on that day were supplied by local outfits Brick Supply, Moonpump, Fear of Jazz and Ada Wilson, and from out of town the Jed Thomas Blues band, Piccolo Chickens and 100 Men.

Clarence Park Festival is now the longest running free music Festival in Yorkshire , possibly in the Country. This institution is celebrating it’s 29th year this year and has played host to bands from all over the country and further afield. The music has always been diverse and interesting covering all genres from folk to jazz, rock and punk and many more. Past festivals have had DJ sets, another year had a poetry corner.

Reaching audiences of between 4,000 – 6, 000 over the weekend, there are food tents, craft stalls and a beer tent. The park is a beautiful natural arena where people can relax and enjoy a beer and a picnic on the grass.

We hope visitors to Wakefield will join us for this very special Festival. See you there.