FORWARDS Festival 2025

As summer festivals go, FORWARDS has quickly carved out a name for itself on the UK circuit, known for bold line-ups and an emphasis on local talent. Now, with its final wave of 2025 acts revealed, the Bristol-based festival looks set to end the season on a strong and distinctly FAULTLess note.

Taking over Clifton Downs on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August, FORWARDS Festival has confirmed its closing additions, including Pa Salieu, Nilufer Yanya, Squid, and dance favourites like LTJ Bukem and Jamz Supernova.

Saturday Main Stage FORWARDS Festival 2025: A Blend of Genre and Emotion

Saturday’s main stage will host London-based singer-songwriter Nilufer Yanya, whose ability to move between indie rock, jazz, and textured electronic layers has earned her a loyal following. She’ll be joined by Berlin-based Anna Erhard, known for crafting delicate, off-kilter pop that cuts through the noise.

Sunday Highlights FORWARDS Festival 2025: Energy, Experimentation and Evolution

Sunday shifts the tempo with Pa Salieu, a dynamic voice in UK rap making his debut at the festival. Sharing the stage is Squid, the Brighton experimental rock outfit that’s steadily built a reputation for energetic, angular live sets. These additions join a bill already including the likes of Jorja Smith, The Last Dinner Party, and Doechii.

The Arches: A New Home for Dance

New for 2025, The Arches introduces a dedicated space for electronic and club-oriented music. Saturday’s programme includes a set from Jamz Supernova, a respected DJ and radio host with a keen eye for emerging sounds. She’s joined by Helena Star, Feel the Real, and SpicyIvy, all bringing fresh energy to the tent’s inaugural year.

On Sunday, LTJ Bukem steps up as a pioneer of atmospheric jungle, while local icons Smith & Mighty Soundsystem return to the stage after time away, promising new material and surprise guests. Their return marks a welcome homecoming to Bristol’s trip-hop legacy. Further sets from Shy One, Miss Mash, and Rea solidify Sunday’s bass-heavy credentials.

The Information Stage: Local Sounds After Dark

Once the main stages close, The Information stage offers more intimate nighttime performances. Highlights include Ava Zarate, whose soulful, bossa nova-inspired sound reflects the diversity of Bristol’s new generation. Also performing are Laura Dia, Mould, and Alamay and Omar Cassius, many of whom have come through artist development initiatives like Next Level, backed by Bristol Beacon and Big Team.

Sunday night closes with genre-bending sets from Waldo’s Gift, Dizraeli & Joy Machine, and RED, offering everything from experimental jazz to alternative spoken word. It’s a reminder that FORWARDS isn’t just a festival—it’s a platform.

Full Line-Up Snapshot

Saturday:
Barry Can’t Swim, Ezra Collective, Confidence Man, Orbital, Mount Kimbie, English Teacher, Happy Mondays, Nilufer Yanya, Katy J Pearson, Ishmael Ensemble & The Rituals Orchestra, Mermaid Chunky, Anna Erhard

Sunday:
Doechii, Jorja Smith, The Last Dinner Party, Olivia Dean, Fabio & Grooverider with The Outlook Orchestra, Pa Salieu, Squid, Moonchild Sanelly, The Silhouettes Project, Alemeda, Snapped Ankles

FORWARDS continues to refine what a UK city festival can be. Between its new dance stage, a strong commitment to local artistry, and its booking of breakout and legacy acts alike, the festival offers a carefully curated experience rooted in Bristol’s identity.

Tickets are available now via forwardsbristol.co.uk. For more music news and updates, follow FAULT Magazine on Instagram and visit our website.