LIDO Festival: Eco-Friendly Beats Drop in Victoria Park
Get ready, London! LIDO Festival, a brand new music extravaganza in Victoria Park, is officially upon us. And honestly, it’s shaping up to be something special – not just for the amazing lineup, but for its serious commitment to sustainability.
Massive Attack Kicks Off a Weekend of Green Vibes
The first weekend is already underway, with trip-hop legends Massive Attack headlining Friday night. I was lucky enough to catch some of the setlist beforehand, and let me tell you, it's going to be epic. But it’s not just the music that's making headlines; LIDO is aiming to be London's – and maybe even the world's – most sustainable festival yet. How? Let's dive in.
Sustainability at the Heart of the Festival
Forget diesel generators! LIDO’s main stage is powered by a groundbreaking 1MW battery, charged by renewable energy and connected to the grid. That’s a massive step for the industry, and it means a predicted 50% reduction in generator capacity and a whopping 48 tonnes less CO2 emissions compared to traditional festivals. They're also experimenting with green hydrogen to power other areas of the festival, which is pretty cool.
Key sustainable initiatives include:
- A meat-free day for Massive Attack’s performance (all plant-based/vegetarian).
- Vegetarian options and at least 20% plant-based food vendors for other days.
- Eco-labels on all food to show their carbon footprint – transparency is key.
- Ban on single-use plastics – yay for recyclable cans!
- Reusable crockery backstage, with surplus food donated to charity.
- Aiming for a 60% waste recycling rate.
It’s not just a marketing ploy either. I spoke with Sam Booth, AEG Europe's sustainability director, and he emphasized that this is a real business strategy—a smart move that sets them apart. The team's collaborated with experts like A Greener Future and Ecotricity to make this happen.
Beyond the Music: A Week of Community Fun
But wait, there's more! LIDO isn't just a weekend bash. They're hosting a week-long "In the Neighbourhood" event between weekends, offering free activities for all ages. Think family theatre, sports sessions with West Ham and Lord's, even mindfulness workshops for kids. It's a fantastic way to engage the local community and keep the good vibes going throughout the week.
Jamie xx, Charli XCX, and More: A Stellar Lineup
Of course, the music is a huge draw. Beyond Massive Attack, we’re talking Jamie xx (with Skrillex!), Charli XCX (with her very own Party Girl Festival!), London Grammar, and Outbreak Fest. Each day's lineup is unique, curated by the headliners themselves. Seriously, something for everyone!
Getting There & What to Bring (and What Not To!)
Victoria Park is easily accessible by tube (Mile End or Bethnal Green) or bus. But before you head off, check LIDO's website for their banned items list. No large umbrellas, sharp objects, or oversized bags allowed. Small bags are permitted and there are water refill stations. Honestly, standard festival rules apply, but it's always good to double-check!
Don't Miss Out!
LIDO Festival is more than just a music festival; it’s a statement about the future of live events. It's a chance to enjoy incredible music while making a positive impact on the planet. Get your tickets now before they're gone!
