30 Facts About Boardmasters

What is Boardmasters?

Boardmasters is a popular festival that combines music, surfing, and skateboarding. Held annually in Cornwall, England, it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Here are some fascinating facts about this unique event.

1. Boardmasters began in 1981 as a surfing competition. Over the years, it has evolved into a full-fledged festival featuring music and extreme sports.

2. The festival takes place in Newquay, a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and excellent surf conditions.

3. Boardmasters is held every August, making it a perfect summer getaway for festival-goers and surf enthusiasts alike.

Music at Boardmasters

Music is a significant part of the Boardmasters experience. The festival features a diverse lineup of artists and bands, catering to various musical tastes.

4. Boardmasters hosts over 200 artists across multiple stages, offering a wide range of genres from rock and indie to electronic and hip-hop.

5. Past headliners include big names like Ed Sheeran, Florence + The Machine, and Kings of Leon, drawing massive crowds to the event.

6. The festival features local talent, giving up-and-coming artists a platform to showcase their music to a larger audience.

Surfing Competitions

Surfing is at the heart of Boardmasters. The festival's roots lie in its surfing competitions, which continue to be a major attraction.

7. Boardmasters is part of the World Surf League, attracting professional surfers from around the globe to compete in its prestigious events.

8. The festival hosts both men's and women's competitions, ensuring equal opportunities for all surfers to showcase their skills.

9. Fistral Beach is the main venue for the surfing events, known for its consistent waves and beautiful scenery.

Skateboarding and BMX

In addition to surfing, Boardmasters also features skateboarding and BMX competitions, adding to the festival's extreme sports appeal.

10. The festival includes a purpose-built skate park, where professional and amateur skateboarders can compete and perform tricks.

11. BMX riders also have their own competitions, showcasing their skills on ramps and jumps designed specifically for the event.

12. Boardmasters attracts top athletes from the skateboarding and BMX worlds, making it a must-see event for fans of extreme sports.

Sustainability Efforts

Boardmasters is committed to promoting sustainability and protecting the environment. The festival has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.

13. The festival has a 'Leave No Trace' policy, encouraging attendees to clean up after themselves and minimize waste.

14. Boardmasters uses eco-friendly materials, such as biodegradable cups and plates, to reduce plastic waste.

15. The festival promotes recycling, with numerous recycling stations set up throughout the event grounds.

16. Boardmasters partners with local organizations to support environmental conservation efforts in the Cornwall area.

Family-Friendly Activities

Boardmasters offers a range of activities for families, making it an enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages.

17. The festival has a dedicated family camping area, providing a safe and comfortable environment for families with children.

18. Boardmasters offers kid-friendly activities, such as face painting, arts and crafts, and beach games.

19. The festival features a family-friendly stage, showcasing performances and entertainment suitable for younger audiences.

Food and Drink

Boardmasters provides a variety of food and drink options, ensuring that festival-goers have plenty of choices to satisfy their appetites.

20. The festival features numerous food stalls, offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world.

21. Boardmasters supports local vendors, giving them the opportunity to showcase their products to a larger audience.

22. The festival has several bars, serving a variety of beverages, including local craft beers and cocktails.

Camping at Boardmasters

Camping is a popular option for Boardmasters attendees, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the festival experience.

23. The festival offers several camping options, from standard camping to luxury glamping, catering to different preferences and budgets.

24. Boardmasters provides shower and toilet facilities, ensuring that campers have access to basic amenities during their stay.

25. The festival has a dedicated quiet camping area, for those who prefer a more peaceful environment.

Art and Culture

Boardmasters celebrates art and culture, offering a range of activities and installations for attendees to enjoy.

26. The festival features live art installations, showcasing the work of talented artists from around the world.

27. Boardmasters hosts workshops and talks, covering topics such as sustainability, surfing, and music.

28. The festival includes a cinema, screening surf films and documentaries for attendees to enjoy.

Community Involvement

Boardmasters is deeply connected to the local community, supporting various initiatives and organizations in the Cornwall area.

29. The festival partners with local charities, donating a portion of its proceeds to support their efforts.

30. Boardmasters provides opportunities for local businesses, allowing them to showcase their products and services at the event.

The Final Wave

Boardmasters isn't just a festival; it's a lifestyle. From its humble beginnings in 1981, it has grown into a massive celebration of music, surfing, and skateboarding. Held in Newquay, Cornwall, this event attracts thousands of fans who come for the waves and stay for the tunes. With headliners like Florence and the Machine and Foals, the festival offers something for everyone. Beyond the music, the surfing competitions showcase some of the best talent from around the world. The festival also emphasizes sustainability, making efforts to reduce its environmental impact. Whether you're a surf enthusiast or a music lover, Boardmasters provides an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, grab your surfboard, and get ready for an adventure that combines the best of both worlds. Don't miss out on this unique blend of sport and sound.