The founder of the music festival said that celebrating its 20th anniversary feels "surreal".
Graham Merifield founded the event in 2005 and has spoken about how creating memories for people is what "keeps it going" - including how he accidentally met a woman in Sainsbury's who got engaged while the Proclaimers were performing on the main stage in 2008.
Merifield said the secret to music festivals surviving 20 years in tough economic times is "fan loyalty," with some people attending the event throughout its history.
The Wychwood Festival, held at Cheltenham Racecourse, began on Friday and concludes on Sunday. Headliners include Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Kaiser Chiefs, Levellers, and Feeder.
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The first festival took place in 2005, but due to COVID-19 cancellations, organisers had to wait a little while to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Wychwood Festival.
Merifield said: "It's incredible and surreal to think we're still here after 20 years and so many people have walked this path with us.".
«A few years ago, we launched a project called Ticket For Life, where people make monthly payments that guarantee the price will remain the same for several years.».
«These people have been coming here since the first year, and now their children have grown up and they have their own, it’s just one family that continues to grow.».
«"I hope I'll still be doing this when I'm 80.".
He added that larger bands help sell tickets, but it's also important to support local acts.
Pebble Daisy were chosen from 2,500 applicants to perform [BBC]
Stroud-based band Pebble Daisy were chosen from 2,500 entries to perform at the festival and said they would "remember it forever".
Before her performance, Pebble said, "This is a huge opportunity. I've always wanted to perform here; it's such a big local festival.".
«"We're really nervous, it's such a big stage, there's so much pressure to be chosen from so many people, but I think it's going to be really fun.".
Shaun Williamson to bring his Barrioke to the main stage [BBC]
Another highlight will be the performance of Shaun Williamson as Barriok, best known for his role as Barry in the Eastenders sitcom Extras.
This is his fifth year at Wychwood, but this time he will move from the tent to the main stage.
He said he was "touched and grateful" by the overwhelming response to Barriok, despite Extras ending nearly 20 years ago.
«"It's been a really great fall of my career," Williamson added.
He said the songs that get the biggest reactions are Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" and Wheatus' "Teenage Dirtbag," but this year's anthem will likely be "Sweet Caroline" because the summer coincides with the World Cup.
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Related links
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Wychwood Festival