Simmer Down Festival is one of the largest and most diverse music festivals that takes place in Birmingham every year. The festival has been free since 2010, however, this year, organisers are blaming financial factors outside of their control for entry fees this year. The event is set to take place on Sunday 17th July, and it is expected to attract around 20,000 visitors to Handsworth Park.

Organisers explained that the shift in entry fee was required based on the devastating impact of COVID-19, resulting in free-entry no longer being sustainable.

Organisers wrote, “Since 2010, Simmer Down Festival has been free of charge. This has been made possible through grants from Arts Council England and sponsors. However, costs are increasing every year and the devastating impact of COVID-19 on local businesses resulted in the loss of sponsorship and Birimgham City Council festival funding ceased several years back.We believe in bringing the very best international reggae artists as well as home-grown talent, along with workshops and participation activities for young people and a real ‘festival feel. In an ideal world, we’d love to be able to keep Simmer Down Festival free, but this is simply not sustainable. Whilst we recognise the pressures of living costs going up in our communities we are committed to keeping costs down.”

The statement went on to reveal that the festival will now be charging adults £11 entry, which the organisers described as “nominal”. Stating, “we also have to make sure the festival environment is safe and has all the infrastructure that is required for an annual event which has now become one of the biggest festivals in the region. We believe that a nominal entry fee is the only way of securing Simmer Down Festival’s future sustainability and for us to continue to bring you an eclectic high-quality festival programme and additional events throughout the year.”

The festival will be celebrating Birmingham’s rich cultural diversity by showcasing a variety of musical genres, including the likes of reggae as a means to pay tribute.  Simmer Down Festival has always been a highlight of Birmingham’s summer events calendar. The festival has also hired for performances international artists, spoken word and dance artists to enhance the creative diversity.

There has been a mixed response to the change in entry fee, with some voicing anger and disappointment that the accessibility element of the festival has now been removed, as many would not be able to afford to attend with their families. Whilst others have shared that they will still be attending the festival this year, and feel the £11 is well worth the entry.

Tickets are available here, or on the gates of the festival.