StarFest at CarFest presented by bp pulse 2024 returns for its 13th year with a stellar line up of stars

James May, Rob Brydon, Tim Peake, Ben Miller, Bryony Gordon and James Lance amongst other glittering names joining Chris Evans for a weekend of incredible entertainment 

With radio DJ Chris Evans at its helm, it’s no surprise that a host of fan favourites and award winning celebrities would join him for this year’s StarFest, one of the much loved festivals within CarFest presented by bp pulse.

Following the triumphant success of last year, CarFest presented by bp pulse showcases seven festivals in one: AdventureFest, FoodFest, KidsFest, RetroFest, StarFest, SpaFest, and, of course, CarFest! Whether you're keen to explore new talent or hear from your favourite celebrities, it promises something for everyone. 

At the UK’s biggest family fundraising festival, visitors will be delighted by the up close and personal access to some of the UK’s biggest names across film, TV, radio, books and space! Offering a diverse range of talks, exclusive behind-the-scenes discussions, captivating performances, and workshops, StarFest brings together renowned icons for an unforgettable weekend on 23rd-25th August at Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire.

Get ready for a stellar experience at The StarFest Stage, where a galaxy of acclaimed figures will shine bright. Visitors will be entertained by stars including car aficionado James May, TV presenter Rob Brydon, astronaut Tim Peake, architect George Clarke, BAFTA winner Ben Miller, and Ted Lasso star James Lance, all stepping into the spotlight. See these captivating personalities as they share hilarious and heartwarming anecdotes and unveil inside scoops, ensuring an enthralling experience all weekend!

Embark on a literary journey as acclaimed writers Adele Parks MBE, Bryony Gordon, Jojo Moyes, Mike Gayle and more take to The Author's Stage. Adele will be sharing the stage with best selling author and mental health advocate Bryony Gordon, a beloved writer whose works have left an indelible mark on readers. 

Joining them are the prolific novelists Jojo Moyes and Mike Gayle. Jojo’s books have topped bestseller lists in 12 countries, with “Me Before You” even inspiring a blockbuster film starring Sam Claflin and Emilia Clarke. Award winning author Mike Gayle will also take a seat on The Author’s Stage delighting audiences with his literary tales. 

See these literary pioneers at The Authors’ Stage, with sessions that promise to be both enlightening and entertaining. Visitors to this book-tastic bonanza will also have the chance to visit The Bookshop by Waterstones, a bibliophile’s haven where people can find their new favourite reads, and get incredible access to their literary heroes.

The Masked Singer returns again with characters making surprise appearances throughout StarFest, offering guests the opportunity to marvel at the elaborate costumes that have captivated audiences. CarFest is the only festival in the UK where visitors can see and interact with these incredible characters.

Get ready to groove with Music Workshop Instrument Petting Zoo, where a team of music teachers from Bath will offer one-to-one lessons for all aspiring rock stars out there. Anyone can swing by and try their hand at various instruments, guided by professional tutors. Strum chords, play melodies, and experience the joy of creating music on the spot — it's a guaranteed good time.

Back by popular demand, Music Workshop will be hitting the WigWam stage with a series of chart-topping hits. The performances feature musicians of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, showcasing the diversity of musical talent. 

Founded by radio presenter Chris Evans, CarFest presented by bp pulse enters its 13th year this August, and vows to be the best edition yet, packed with activities and attractions for the whole family. Since its inception in 2012, the charity’s core mission has been to raise funds for UK children's charities, and over the years, the festival has amassed millions for its partners. In 2024, CarFest presented by bp pulse will be supporting BBC Children in Need, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, My Black Dog, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust, Young Epilepsy, and the local Hampshire-based charity Naomi House & Jacksplace. 

Tickets are available for purchase at www.carfest.org.

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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 a percentage 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 six 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)
• My Black Dog (Registered Charity No.1182690 in England & Wales) 
• 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 6% will be donated to a number of other charities that will be confirmed over the coming months, including charities local to CarFest event sites. 

2024 HEADLINE PARTNER:

bp pulse is the headline partner for CarFest 2024

bp pulse provides fast charging for electric vehicles. The bp pulse EV charging network is one of the UK’s largest – and includes the UK's biggest public EV charging hub at the NEC in Birmingham.

Plug into fast, rapid and ultra-fast chargers – in ultra-convenient locations. Whether you’re shopping for groceries or staying in a hotel – just plug in, power up and go.

2024 FEATURE PARTNERS:

CarFest is supported by a number of key partners:

• Costa Coffee is the Official Coffee of CarFest and host of The Big Early 
• Cuisinart is the Food Experiences Partner
• Dulux is the SpaFest Stage Partner
• Kwik Fit and Michelin are the Track, Motorsport Paddock & Driver's Lounge Partner
• Napoleon Grills is the Big BBQ Cookout Partner
• Skoda is the Explore-More Stage Partner
• Timothy Taylor's hosts the BarFest Arms at the festival

SUPPORTED BY:

The festival is also supported by: 

• Aspall is the Official Cider Partner
• Coca-Cola is the Official Soft Drinks Partner
• Domaine Des Jeanne is the Official Wine Partner
• Hopical Storm is the Official Beer Partner
• Laverstoke Park Farm is the Venue Partner
• Ocean Spray is the Official Spirits & Cocktails Tipple Tent Partner
• Pravha is the Official Lager Partner
• Village Hotels is the Official Hotel Partner
• Virgin Radio UK is the Official Media Partner