Cursus Cider & Music Festival

Cursus Cider & Music Festival

In 2026, the Cursus Cider & Music Festival returns to the heart of the Dorset countryside. Set on Myncen Farm near Blandford Forum, the festival is intentionally kept small – only a few hundred tickets are sold each year – so it feels like a reunion of friends rather than a big commercial event. Its easygoing, down-to-earth spirit is obvious the moment you arrive.

Music Lineup

Music is at the heart of Cursus. Multiple stages (and a lively DJ tent) showcase acts from folk and roots to upbeat country and rock. Throughout the days and evenings, you might hear singer-songwriter sets, bluegrass bands, or folk-punk groups – local acts and occasional international artists alike – each bringing authentic energy. In between sets, DJs spin dance tunes to keep the party going. Longtime attendees say the festival is “all about good folks, great music, and delicious food.” There are often surprise guests, barn dances, or small cabaret performances, adding to the fun.

Family-Friendly Festival

Families are warmly welcomed at Cursus. There’s a dedicated Kids’ Den for crafts, games, and quiet play, plus broad lawns for running around. Dogs on leads are allowed and often enjoy a festival outing too. The drink bar features locally-made cider and ales, and food stalls serve hearty local fare from wood-fired pizzas to spicy curries and savory pies. Picnic tables, hay bales, and your own picnic rug make it easy to grab a plate, sit back with a pint, and enjoy the surroundings.

Festival Setting

The whole event spreads across roughly 70 acres of farm fields, orchards, and meadows, so even at full capacity you’ll never feel cramped. With that much space, you can dance under festoon lights or lounge under shady trees at will. Musicians might spontaneously form a jam session by the bonfire, or someone else might lead a barn dance. It truly feels like a friendly village celebration, with no circus-style distractions – just people relaxing with cider in hand in this beautiful rural setting.

Camping and Accommodation

Camping is available on site for the full weekend. Simply bring your tent or campervan and a camping pass, and stewards will guide you to your pitch. Showers, toilets (including accessible facilities), and water points are provided. If you prefer a bed after the music ends, Blandford Forum’s town center (about 5 minutes away) has many inns and B&Bs. There are also countryside lodging options like Rustic Stays, which offers traditional shepherds huts glamping right on the farm – perfect for a cozy country sleepover. Whether you camp under the stars or curl up in a comfy hut, you’ll wake up steps away from the action.

Festival Experience

All in all, Cursus Cider & Music Festival is about ease and community. It’s a place to relax, dance, and make friends while sipping crisp local cider and listening to great music. There are no VIP areas or long security lines – just open fields, friendly people, and good times. Pack your wellies and your dancing boots, and prepare for a weekend of true countryside merriment that you’ll remember long after last call.