CarFest 2025 Presented by bp pulse: Inspiring a Nation to #DoMoreGood and Support Children’s Charities

Introducing 8 young ambassadors of its charity partners, inspiring everyone to #DoMoreGood

CarFest, presented by bp pulse, is the UK’s leading family fundraising festival, dedicated to its mission to #DoMoreGood by making a lasting difference in the lives of young people and families across the country. Founded by Chris Evans in 2012, CarFest has raised over £25 million for charity, with 100% of profits from every ticket sold directly benefiting seven incredible causes that support kids, teens, and families nationwide. 

As part of this year’s initiative, CarFest is introducing young representatives from each of the charities as the official ‘Faces’ of Do More Good Week. These remarkable ambassadors have been directly supported not only by the charities, but by the funds raised through CarFest donations.  

This year CarFest will be raising funds for BBC Children in Need which receives 50% of the total funds raised. Other national charity partners, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust and Young Epilepsy, who will each receive 7% of the funds raised. Local Hampshire based charity Naomi House & Jacksplace will receive 2%. The remaining 13% will be donated to additional causes, including those local to the CarFest event site. Every ticket purchased contributes directly to supporting these incredible causes. 

Taking place from August 22nd-24th at Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire, CarFest will once again bring together an incredible mix of entertainment, music, and family fun. This year’s event will feature multiple themed festivals within the festival, including FoodFest, KidsFest, RetroFest, SpaFest, StarFest, and, of course, Cars at CarFest. 

This year, global pop sensation Rita Ora will headline the Main Stage on Saturday 23rd August. That’s not all, and alongside Rita, fans can enjoy a whole host of acts, including the rock-tastic Travis, folk-rock musician Tom Walker, 80s pop sensations Madness as well as the smooth blues of Seasick Steve to name a few. 

CarFest is not just about music – it offers something for everyone. FoodFest will showcase culinary delights, KidsFest will entertain families with activities like visiting Pudsey’s Spot, and SpaFest will provide a relaxing escape. CarFest itself will feature car displays and racing thrills, while StarFest will bring celebrity experiences and wellness expertise to the stage. 

CarFest has been a steadfast supporter of UK children’s charities. In 2024, CarFest raised an impressive £1.26 million for its charity partners, and this year, the festival is looking to surpass that total, with 10% of ticket sales and all profits going towards charity. 

CarFest Founder, Chris Evans said, "CarFest has always been about bringing people together to celebrate life, family and creating great memories, all whilst making a real difference for children and families in need. As we do each year, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible young ambassadors from our charity partners, whose stories truly embody the spirit of #DoMoreGood. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Laverstoke Park Farm for what promises to be our best CarFest yet – a weekend full of fun, laughter, and generosity. See you there!" 

CarFest 2025 will be the best yet, celebrating music, family fun, and fundraising all in one place. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend! Tickets are available now at www.carfest.org.

Meet This Year’s Ambassadors

Halle (12) from Oxted, Surrey is this year’s ambassador, representing the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Halle’s childhood was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with Wilms tumour, a type of kidney cancer, at just four years old. The intense treatment left Halle isolated, missing school and her friends. She found solace in the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, a charity that organises sailing trips to help children affected by cancer regain their independence and confidence. These trips have allowed Halle to connect with other young people on similar journeys. 

Aanyah (10) & Amyra (7) from London are this year’s ambassadors, representing BBC Children in Need. Both girls faced a challenging start to life when their mother, Neera, was diagnosed with breast cancer. The family’s struggles affected Aanyah and Amyra, causing them to become anxious and withdrawn. However, with the support of The Habbit Factory, a charity supported by BBC Children in Need, the girls have rediscovered their confidence. The charity uses fun activities like acting, singing, and stage performances to help children cope with their fears and build new skills.   

Abbas (11) from Southampton is this year’s ambassador, representing Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity. A huge car fan, Abbas particularly likes yellow Lamborghinis. When Abbas was six he was diagnosed with Dystonia Motor Disorder caused by a GNA01 gene mutation, an extremely rare neurological condition affecting movement and coordination. Abbas is now non-verbal, tube fed and is on a machine at night to help monitor his oxygen and breathing. His Mum Dilara cares for him 24/7. 

Rainbow Trust began providing practical and emotional support to the family in July 2023, Before Rainbow Trust, Dilara had little respite. Crucially, Dilara trusts Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker Cindy to spend time alone with Abbas which gives Dilara a break and also someone to confide in.  

Nailah (16) from London is this year’s ambassador, representing Starlight. Nailah was born with three eye conditions, including primary congenital glaucoma, nystagmus, and exotropia, which severely limited her vision. Despite numerous hospital visits since she was just three days old, Nailah remained positive, thanks in part to the health play specialists at Moorfields Eye Hospital who were supported by Starlight. These specialists have helped Nailah feel comfortable and empowered during her hospital visits, teaching her strategies to cope with her medical procedures and inspiring her to want to become a health play specialist herself in the future.  

Charlie (13) from Walsall, West Midlands is this year’s ambassador, representing Young Epilepsy. Diagnosed with epilepsy from birth, Charlie's seizures are drug-resistant and difficult to control, often occur while he is asleep. Thanks to Young Epilepsy, Charlie has been able to connect with other children who understand his condition, especially through their youth clubs and one-to-one support from his dedicated support worker, Stephen. These activities have given Charlie a sense of community and hope, helping him cope with the challenges that come with living with epilepsy. 

Cassidy (20) from the Isle of Wight is this year’s ambassador for Naomi House & Jacksplace. As she lives with a rare skin condition, Cassidy faces daily challenges, including chronic pain and joint dislocations. Despite these immense difficulties, however, she’s determined to make the most of every moment. Naomi House & Jacksplace provides expert palliative care and respite stays, helping Cassidy and her mum (who’s also her full-time carer) receive the support they both need and deserve. As an ambassador, Cassidy hopes to raise awareness of the vital role of hospices in helping young people live as comfortably as possible. 

Adam (22) from West Sussex is this year’s ambassador, representing Teenage Cancer Trust. In 2021, Adam was diagnosed with adrenocortical cancer following the sudden rupture of a tumour. After surgery and chemotherapy, the cancer returned in 2024, spreading to his liver. Teenage Cancer Trust has been a crucial source of support throughout Adam’s journey, offering emotional, financial, and holistic care. Adam is grateful for the team’s constant support, which has helped him and his family through the toughest times. Now preparing for surgery, Adam remains hopeful, surrounded by a strong network of care. 

Ends

Editors notes

About CarFest 

·       CarFest is the brainchild of radio presenter Chris Evans. Featuring an incredible combination of cars, food, live music and family entertainment, the inaugural weekend event was staged at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire in August 2012. 

Fundraising details: All profits from CarFest, including 10% of the price of each ticket, will be donated to UK children’s charities.  

·       BBC Children in Need (a charity registered in England and Wales under number 802052 and in Scotland under number SC039557) will receive 50% of the total funds raised.  

·       The following charities will each receive 7% of the total funds raised:  

·       Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust (Registered Charity No.1096491 in England & Wales and SCO44013 in Scotland) 

·       Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity (Registered Charity No. 1070532)  

·       Starlight Children’s Foundation (Registered Charity No.1062559 in England & Wales and SC039757 in Scotland) 

·       Teenage Cancer Trust (Registered Charity No.1062559 in England & Wales and SC039757)  

·       Young Epilepsy (Registered Charity No. Charity 311877 in England & Wales).  

·       Local Hampshire based hospice, Naomi's House & Jacksplace (Registered Charity No.1002832), will receive 2% of funds.  

·       The remaining 13% will be donated to a number of other charities that will be confirmed over the coming months, including charities local to the CarFest event site.  

2025 HEADLINE PARTNER: bp pulse 

·       bp pulse is bp’s electric vehicle (EV) charging business. It is one of the leading rapid and ultra-fast public EV charging networks in the UK and operates one of the largest number of sites with ultra-fast charging in Germany. 

·       Focused on fast, reliable charging, bp pulse is rolling out charge points to consumers wherever they need them: destination, on-the-go and bp forecourts. 

·       EV charging is one of the key growth engines driving bp's transformation to an integrated energy company. The company aims to grow its network of public EV charging points by 2030 to over 100,000 worldwide. 

·       bp’s here for your travel needs – mostly with petrol and diesel – but bp pulse already has over 3000 rapid and ultra-fast charging points 

2025 FEATURE PARTNERS 

·       CarFest is supported by a number of key partners: 

·       Cuisinart is the Official Food Experiences Partner incorporating The Chef’s Stage, The Kitchen Table and The Cook’s Companion 

·       Mazda is The StarFest Stage and Club CarFest Partner 

·       Michelin and Protyre Autocare are the Track, Paddock and Driver’s Lounge Partners 

·       Napoleon Grills is sponsor of The Big BBQ Cookout 

·       Timothy Taylor’s is the Official Beer Partner and hosts the BarFest Arms at the festival 

·       Prestige Flowers is the Official Floral Partner and Sponsor of The Designer Village 

SUPPORTED BY: 

·       Aspall is the Official Cider Partner 

·       Coca Cola Europacific is the Official Soft Drinks Partner 

·       Domaine Des Jeanne is the Official Wine Partner 

·       Staropramen is the Official Lager Partner 

·       Village Hotels is the Official Hotel Partner 

·       Virgin Radio UK is the Official Media Partner