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What we learned from Kaleidoscope Festival 2018

The event launched at London's Alexandra Palace.

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Saturday 21 July 2018 saw Kaleidoscope Festival take to London’s Alexandra Palace for its inaugural event, welcoming a headline performance from Flaming Lips, joined by an exciting bill of indie veterans, spoken word, comedy, theatre and more.

The one-day event boasted appearances by punk icon Dr John Cooper Clarke, as well as laughs courtesy of Katherine Ryan, and a party led by DJs The 2 Bears.

Breaking outside of the physical confines of the people’s palace, the main stage stood atop the grassy verge overlooking England’s capital. Organisers invited some of the best in food and drink to the hilltop, helping to bring a unique vibe to proceedings.

With the event all wrapped up for 2018, here’s what we learned from the first ever Kaleidoscope.

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Is there a main stage with a better view than this?

A challenge to all major cities worldwide. What festival main stage has a better view than having one of the best cities in the world (ok, we’re a little biased here) as it’s backdrop? Answers on a postcard.

Boutique vibes in the heart of London

You don’t have to go to the countryside for the Boutique festival experience. Let the Boutique come to you. From craft beer and cocktail stalls, to street food you’ll desire, you don’t have to lug a tent and half a weeks living requirements to get the best Pimm’s festival vibe. Just walk up the hill.

Victorian tunnels

Rarely open to the public, the chance to walk through the tunnels that run underneath the beautiful Alexandra Palace, to where immersive theatre experiences awaited, was something to cherish and a great addition to the bill.

The wonder of Mystery Jets

It’s easy to forget how, over five genre hopping albums, just how many hits Mystery Jets have had. But over a 10 plus year career, where they have outlasted many of their contemporaries (we still miss you Noah & The Whale!) they cram the main stage with sing alongs, arms waving and good vibes. In short, they’ve become the perfect tea time festival act, and show what an underrated they are.

Really great for families

A large playground and kids area, a specific outdoor stage just for families and glitter tents a plenty – take the family and have a day out.


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