August on the Farm: Celebrating Regenerative Agriculture Through Festivals
August is a vibrant time on the farm, with fields bursting with crops ready for harvest and the air filled with the buzz of life. For regenerative farmers, this month represents not only the culmination of months of careful planning and labour but also a time to celebrate the land and its bounty. The connection between August and the various festivals that occur on regenerative farms during this time is deeply rooted in traditions that honour the earth, the harvest, and the community.
With this in mind, we’ve decided to focus this month’s blog post on our beloved Valley Fest, now that the dust has settled on this year’s event and we are looking forward to the future.
A Celebration of Community, Sustainability, and Success in Chew Valley
Nestled in the heart of Somerset, our unique festival has quickly grown into one of the region’s most beloved events, drawing thousands of visitors from across the UK. Valley Fest isn’t just another music festival—it’s a celebration of community, sustainability, and the natural beauty of the Chew Valley.
The Rise of Valley Fest: A Festival Rooted in Community
Valley Fest began as a small, grassroots gathering, but it has since blossomed into a major event that encapsulates the spirit of Chew Valley. The festival was founded by Luke, with a vision to create a festival that brings people together while promoting sustainability and supporting local causes. His commitment to these values is evident in every aspect of Valley Fest, from its lineup of local food vendors to its eco-friendly initiatives.
What sets Valley Fest apart from other festivals is its deep connection to the community. The festival is held on Luke’s farm, overlooking the picturesque Chew Valley Lake, and much of the event’s planning and execution is done by locals.
Music, Food, and Fun: Highlights of Valley Fest
At its core, Valley Fest is a music festival, and it boasts an eclectic lineup that spans genres and generations. The festival has featured well-known acts as well as up-and-coming artists, giving festival-goers the chance to discover new music in an intimate and friendly setting.
But Valley Fest is about much more than just music. It’s also a feast for the senses, with a strong emphasis on local food and drink. The festival showcases the best of Somerset’s culinary offerings with food stalls and bars run by local suppliers and producers, and sumptuous feasts cooked by well-known local chefs. One of the most popular food stalls in 2024, we’re proud to say, was Luke’s Story Burger and Briskets! People raved about how delicious the meat was – the very meat you can purchase from Meatbox. To celebrate this success, and give you a taste of what Luke served up, we’re offering 10% off all beef products for the rest of the month – simply use code VALLEYBEEF at the checkout and 10% will be discounted off any beef products in your basket!
In addition to the music and food, Valley Fest offers a wide range of activities and experiences for all ages. There are workshops on everything from yoga and meditation to sustainable farming and wildlife conservation. Kids can enjoy a dedicated area with crafts, games, and storytelling, while adults can unwind with a massage or hot tub.
The festival’s diverse programming ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a truly inclusive event!
A Commitment to Sustainability
If you have followed Meatbox for some time, you will understand how important sustainability is to us, and this is something which is true across all of our businesses.
One of the hallmarks of Valley Fest is its commitment to sustainability. From the very beginning, the festival has aimed to minimise its environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices. This is reflected in everything from the festival’s waste management systems to its use of renewable energy sources.
Valley Fest has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce waste, including a ban on single-use plastics and a strong emphasis on recycling. Food vendors are encouraged to use compostable packaging, and visitors are asked to bring their own reusable cups and bottles. The festival also offers free drinking water stations, reducing the need for bottled water.
Supporting Local Causes
Valley Fest is not just about having a good time—it’s also about giving back to the community. The festival has a strong charitable focus, with a portion of its profits going to local causes. Over the years, Valley Fest has supported a number of charities, including the Teenage Cancer Trust, the Soil Association, and local food banks.
This commitment to giving back is another reason why Valley Fest has become such a beloved event in Chew Valley. It’s a festival with a purpose, one that reflects the values of the community and seeks to make a positive impact on the world.
The Future of Valley Fest
Valley Fest is more than just a music festival—it’s a celebration of everything that makes Chew Valley special. From its stunning natural setting and its commitment to sustainability, to its focus on local food and community, Valley Fest is an event that truly captures the heart and soul of the region.
As you can imagine, putting on an event like Valley Fest takes a monumental amount of effort. The team feel that the festival deserves some incubation time to plan the next stages of our evolution, alongside a well-earned rest for our beautiful farm, so the decision has been made to kick off the eleventh year of Valley Fest in style in 2026!
As we go into this next chapter, Valley Fest remains a beacon of what a festival can be when it’s built on the values of community, sustainability, and celebration. It’s not just a place to enjoy great music and food; it’s a place to connect with others, to learn, and to give back. In a world that often feels disconnected, Valley Fest is a reminder of the power of coming together to celebrate what really matters.
Register your interest in joining us in 2026 now!
