Matt McClafferty Set to Dazzle at CarFest 2025’s Wigwam Stage

Get ready to be moved by the powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics of Matt McClafferty as he graces the Wigwam Stage at The BarFest Arms hosted by Timothy Taylor’s on Friday 22nd August at CarFest 2025. Hailing from Hertfordshire, Matt is an undiscovered gem with a unique ability to craft pop anthems that truly tug at the heartstrings.

Known for his emotional and raw performances, Matt’s shows are described as a ‘cathartic’ experience—he tells stories in ways that cut straight to the core, leaving the audience with a lump in their throats and a tear in their eyes. Jodie Bryant of BBC Introducing remarked, “He will stun any crowd & I can’t wait for what he does next!”

Matt’s musical journey began with an early bedroom demo, which gained the attention of BBC Introducing (Beds, Herts, and Bucks). Since then, he has continued to mesmerize audiences with his live performances across intimate venues in London. His latest release, ‘Inner Peace’, has garnered praise from notable tastemakers, including Kerrie Cosh (BBC Introducing Three Counties and Northants), Jodie Bryant, Sam Shiner, and UpNext.

At The BarFest Arms, Hosted by Timothy Taylor’s, the festival’s much-loved pub setting pairs great live music with award-winning ales, including their celebrated pale ale, Landlord and their session IPA Hopical Storm, alongside a wide selection of lagers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Festival-goers can relax, enjoy a drink, and witness some of the UK’s most exciting up-and-coming musical talent in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Now in its fifteenth year, CarFest 2025, founded by Virgin Radio presenter Chris Evans, continues to offer far more than just cars. The festival brings together six distinct experiences in one, including FoodFest for culinary enthusiasts, KidsFest for family-friendly fun, RetroFest for all things vintage, SpaFest for wellness and relaxation, StarFest featuring celebrity guests and expert talks, and, of course, CarFest itself for high-speed thrills and breathtaking car displays.

Beyond its entertainment value, CarFest remains dedicated to its core mission of raising funds for UK children’s charities. Since its inception in 2012, the festival has donated all of its profits to charity, raising an impressive £1.26 million in 2024 alone. The 2025 edition will continue to support vital causes, including BBC Children in Need, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust, Young Epilepsy, and the local Hampshire hospice Naomi House & Jacksplace.

With an unbeatable lineup of live music, family-friendly entertainment, and an unwavering commitment to charitable giving, CarFest 2025 promises to be one of the summer’s most unmissable events.

Tickets for CarFest 2025 are available now at www.carfest.org.

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Editors notes

CarFest is the brainchild of presenter Chris Evans. Taking place at Laverstoke Park Farm, the festival features an incredible combination of cars, food, live music and family entertainment. Launched in 2012, the weekend-long festival was created to raise funds for UK children’s charities. Since its inception, the festival has raised over £25 million for its charity partners. CarFest is run by CarFest Management Ltd on behalf of Chris Evans.