South Facing Festival has officially revealed its complete 2025 programme, confirming another outstanding summer of live music at the iconic Crystal Palace Bowl in London.

Running across multiple dates throughout August, South Facing Festival once again brings together one of the UK's most diverse outdoor concert series. From indie legends and dance pioneers to hip hop icons, electronic artists and soul favourites, the 2025 programme offers something for every music fan.

Returning to one of Britain's most historic open-air venues, this year's festival welcomes headline performances from Basement Jaxx, Busta Rhymes, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Mogwai, Skepta's Big Smoke Festival, Morcheeba, UNKLE, DJ Shadow, Tinlicker and many more, continuing South Facing's reputation for presenting world-class artists in an unforgettable outdoor setting.

What's New at South Facing Festival 2025?

The 2025 edition brings together one of the festival's broadest programmes to date, with performances spread across three weeks of August rather than a traditional single-weekend format. Each event has its own identity, allowing visitors to choose between electronic music, indie rock, hip hop, disco, folk and alternative performances while enjoying the unique surroundings of Crystal Palace Bowl.

This approach has helped South Facing become one of London's most distinctive summer music events, giving audiences the opportunity to experience internationally acclaimed artists in an intimate outdoor venue with excellent transport links and a relaxed festival atmosphere.

2025 Headline Highlights

The 2025 programme offers an exceptional variety of artists across every genre. Mogwai and Lankum open the concert series with an atmospheric evening of post-rock and contemporary folk before Flackstock returns to celebrate music, performance and mental health awareness.

Hip hop fans can enjoy Busta Rhymes alongside legendary guests including Redman and Big Daddy Kane, while electronic music lovers are treated to performances from Tinlicker, DJ Shadow and UNKLE. The festival concludes with two huge Basement Jaxx homecoming shows before Nile Rodgers & CHIC close the series with an evening of disco classics and feel-good funk.

This diverse programme reflects South Facing's reputation for bringing together globally recognised artists while celebrating London's vibrant music culture.

Why South Facing Festival Is Different

Unlike many traditional festivals, South Facing is a curated concert series rather than a single weekend event. Every show has its own atmosphere, audience and musical identity, allowing visitors to experience world-class performances without the crowds often associated with larger camping festivals.

The historic Crystal Palace Bowl adds another dimension to every concert. Surrounded by parkland and steeped in musical history, the venue has hosted legendary artists for decades, making it one of London's most recognisable outdoor performance spaces. Combined with excellent food, craft drinks and easy transport links, South Facing delivers one of the capital's best live music experiences.

The Iconic Crystal Palace Bowl

Crystal Palace Bowl has been one of London's most celebrated outdoor music venues since the 1960s, welcoming generations of internationally acclaimed performers. Its natural amphitheatre creates excellent sightlines and an intimate atmosphere despite hosting thousands of music fans.

Today, South Facing Festival continues that tradition by presenting carefully curated concerts that celebrate both established artists and exciting contemporary performers. The combination of historic surroundings and modern production has helped establish the festival as one of London's standout summer events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is South Facing Festival held?

South Facing Festival takes place at Crystal Palace Bowl in Crystal Palace Park, South London.

Is South Facing a camping festival?

No. South Facing is a series of individual outdoor concerts held across several dates in August rather than a traditional camping festival.

Who is performing in 2025?

The programme includes Basement Jaxx, Busta Rhymes, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Mogwai, Lankum, Morcheeba, UNKLE, DJ Shadow, Tinlicker, Skepta's Big Smoke Festival and many more artists.

How do I get to Crystal Palace Bowl?

The venue is easily reached by rail, London Overground and local bus services, making it one of the most accessible outdoor concert venues in London.

What makes South Facing unique?

South Facing combines a world-class line-up with one of London's most historic outdoor venues, offering genre-specific concert days instead of a traditional multi-day festival.