solar, sea and good vibes, say festival-goers

Festival goers in Cornwall are praising the “vibes and sunshine” forward of Boardmasters’ packed weekend of music and browsing.

Upwards of 58,000 individuals are set to flock to Newquay for the five-day occasion, which is able to see performances from stars together with RAYE, Central Cee, and The Prodigy.

Surfing can also be going down at Fistral Beach, with the Boardmasters Surf Open 2025 which began on Wednesday.

The Kaiser Chiefs may even take to the stage on Friday, a possibility lead singer Ricky Wilson mentioned was “a privilege”.

“It’s always good to come to Cornwall,” Wilson mentioned. “We’ve been here many times to visit but to play here is a rarity.”

The indie rock band final performed the competition in 2016 and bassist Simon Rix mentioned the expertise was “sensational”.

Emma, who has travelled from London, mentioned Newquay was an “unbelievable” backdrop for the competition.

“It’s great so far. I’ve been to Boardmasters before and it’s such a great atmosphere here,” she mentioned.

“It a really good vibe. We have the sun, the sea, and so much to do here.”

Her buddy Kate, additionally from London, is visiting the competition for the primary time.

“I love it here. It’s gorgeous and everything is great. I’m most excited to see RAYE.”

Meanwhile Debbie and her daughter from Bedfordshire have been tenting close by for the final week.

“We’re loving it,” mentioned Debbie. “It’s our first time here and we can’t believe it; it’s amazing.

“We’ve been at Watergate Bay listening to the build-up all week and watching it from the campsite.”

As well as music, there are also ongoing surfing competitions at Fistral Beach.

The events include the Boardmasters OPEN men’s and women’s division and the Boardmasters Longboard OPEN men’s and women’s division.

Robert Blythe, one of the commentators for the media team, said the Boardmasters Surf Open was “the largest occasion within the UK browsing calendar”.

“I’m from south Wales and grew up competing in browsing so to be requested to commentate here’s a actual honour, deal with and a privilege.”

He mentioned the “excessive calibre” of surfing on display was important for the future of the sport.

“This attracts surfers not solely from throughout Britain however from Europe and around the globe.

“What we’re seeing this week is so vital for UK surfers, especially for the youngsters, because seeing these people can help them set their aspirations.”

Mr Blythe additionally praised the climate regardless of a short spot of drizzle on Thursday.

“We have been blessed with beautiful sunshine. The beach has been absolutely packed with spectators and supporters.

“But it actually makes our job, and the enjoyment for spectators, so a lot better and simpler when the solar’s shining.”