Sonic Boom Festival – Burton-upon-Trent, England 2026
Overview
Sonic Boom Festival is a dynamic one-day new music extravaganza that transforms Burton-upon-Trent into a hub of grassroots creativity, featuring over 50 original artists across 11 stages scattered throughout the town. Produced by the not-for-profit Sonic Boom Music CIC, the event channels every penny raised back into local music initiatives, fostering regeneration, youth training programs like TURBO (which awards Bronze Arts Awards), and year-round cultural opportunities. With a free main stage headlined by acclaimed acts and “Aftershock” evening performances in local venues, it celebrates the power of music to unite communities and spotlight emerging talent from the UK and beyond.
In 2026, building on sold-out successes, the festival expands its impact with enhanced collaborations, volunteer-driven energy, and a focus on sustainable music economies. Expect genre-hopping sets from indie rock to electronic, family-friendly daytime vibes evolving into nightlife pulses, all against Burton’s historic backdrop. It’s more than gigs—it’s a catalyst for local pride, offering hands-on experiences for young creators and immersive nights for fans. For full details, visit the official site: sonicboomfestival.co.uk.
Event Highlights
- Main activities or performances: Free main stage from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM with headline acts like Everything Everything (based on past), followed by paid “Aftershock” gigs in 10+ venues till late; over 50 artists across indie, rock, electronic, and emerging genres on 11 stages.
- Special traditions or features: Annual youth involvement via TURBO program with behind-the-scenes access; all proceeds fund grassroots projects, including oversubscribed training cohorts; community volunteer crews powering the event.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Town-wide immersion with stages in pubs, churches, and squares; interactive elements like artist meet-and-greets; family zones during day with food stalls and craft brews from Burton’s famous ale heritage.
About This Event
- A not-for-profit venture by Sonic Boom Music CIC, partnering with East Staffordshire Borough Council to revive Burton’s live music scene through diverse, accessible programming.
- Emphasizes sustainability with donations, sponsorships, and collaborations driving long-term cultural growth; 2026 lineup launch imminent, promising bolder acts and expanded youth pilots with Burton College.
- Features 50+ original performers, blending national headliners with local openers; free entry to main stage ensures inclusivity for all ages and budgets.
- Includes safety protocols like venue capacity limits and volunteer stewards; promotes diversity with genre variety and accessible programming for neurodiverse attendees.
Why Attend
Sonic Boom Festival captures the raw thrill of undiscovered music in a compact, walkable town setting—picture daytime crowds swaying to indie anthems in the sun-dappled Market Square, then diving into shadowy pubs for late-night DJ sets that keep the adrenaline flowing till dawn. It’s a haven for music obsessives seeking authenticity over hype, where you might chat with tomorrow’s stars over a pint of Burton ale, all while knowing your presence fuels local dreams. Free main stage access lowers barriers, making it ideal for solo explorers, groups of mates, or families introducing kids to live vibes without breaking the bank.
Deeper than the sets, it’s a shot of community spirit: witnessing young TURBO trainees orchestrate chaos into magic, or joining volunteers who turn passion into profession. In Burton’s brewing heartland, this event brews something equally potent—connections that linger like a killer riff. Skip the mega-fest mud for this intimate explosion, emerging inspired, ears ringing, and already plotting your aftershock crawl.
Date & Duration
- Dates: Saturday, September 12, 2026 (single-day event, with pre-festival buzz and post-event extensions).
- Duration: 1 day (main stage 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Aftershock performances extending to midnight or later across venues).
Venue / Location
- Main venue: Market Square, an open-air pedestrian plaza perfect for large crowds with stage setups and surrounding food/drink options.
- Additional areas: 10+ intimate stages in local spots like St Paul’s Church, The Scholar pub, and other town center venues for Aftershock gigs; full map released closer to date.
- Google Maps address: Market Square, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1ES, United Kingdom.
Ticket Information
- How tickets are sold: Main stage completely free, no tickets needed—arrive early for spots; Aftershock venue gigs via individual platforms like Gigantic Tickets or venue sites, online presale recommended.
- Whether admission is free or paid: Main stage free for all; Aftershock events paid, typically £5-15 GBP per venue/party.
- Ticket pricing in USD only: Main stage $0 USD; Aftershock single gigs $6.50–$19.50 USD; potential day passes or bundles $25–$40 USD if offered.
- Any special seating or VIP options: Limited VIP for Aftershock including early entry and artist lounge access; main stage open standing/picnic-style with accessible viewing areas.
- Minimum and maximum tickets pricing: Minimum $0 USD (main stage); maximum $40 USD (premium Aftershock bundle with multiple venues).
- All other info: 2025 sold out early—2026 presales start spring 2026; group discounts for 4+ on Aftershock; under-16s free on main stage with adult; refunds per venue policy.
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Contact Information
- Email: hello@sonicboomfestival.co.uk (general inquiries); info@sonicboomusiccic.org (CIC-specific or sponsorships).
- Phone: +44 (0)1283 508101 (East Staffordshire Council tourism line, English available); festival direct line TBD—check site.
- Website: https://www.sonicboomfestival.co.uk; https://www.sonicboomusiccic.org (CIC parent).
- Social Media: @sonicboommusicfestival (Instagram); @sonicboommusicfestival (Facebook); @sonicboomfest (X/Twitter).
- Key Staff: Festival Producer – Not specified (contact via email); Youth Program Lead – TURBO Coordinator (via CIC email).
- Press/Volunteers: Email press@sonicboomfestival.co.uk (media); volunteer@sonicboomusiccic.org for sign-ups (year-round, training in summer; perks include free Aftershock access).
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English support; register on site for 2026 lineup alerts.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Birmingham Airport (BHX), 25 miles away (30-40 minute drive via A38); East Midlands Airport (EMA), 20 miles (25-35 minute drive via A50).
- Public transport: Trains from London Euston to Burton-on-Trent station (1.5 hours, $40-70 USD one-way); 10-minute walk from station to Market Square; local buses 1/1A from station ($2 USD).
- Driving directions: From M1 (Junction 28), follow A38 west 15 miles; paid parking at Coopers Square (£5-10 USD/day) or free outskirts with shuttle; EV chargers available.
- Cycling/walking: Town center bike-friendly with racks at Market Square; pedestrian paths from station; rent bikes via local apps.
- Ride-sharing: Uber/Bolt from airports/stations; drop-off at Horninglow Street for Square access to avoid crowds.
Accommodation Options
- Budget stays: Travelodge Burton on Trent (0.3 miles from Market Square, $60-80 USD/night, basic with breakfast; festival shuttle).
- Mid-range hotels: Novotel Burton Park (1 mile away, $100-130 USD/night, pool and gardens; packages with gig access).
- Luxury options: St. Modwen’s House (town center, $150-180 USD/night, boutique with spa; Aftershock priority booking).
- Camping/glamping: Nearby Branston Water Park site (3 miles, $40-60 USD/night tents; glamping bells $80-110 USD with transport).
- Alternative stays: Airbnb lofts in town ($70-120 USD/night); B&Bs like The Kings Arms ($90-140 USD, pub vibe with rooms).
- Booking tips: September peak—book via sonicboomfestival.co.uk partners for 10% off; stay central for Aftershock hopping.
Reviews
- “Epic town takeover with non-stop bangers from stage to stage—the free main act had the square electric, and Aftershock kept us raging till 3 AM!”
- “Loved the grassroots heart: discovered killer local bands, youth crews stealing the show, and Burton ales flowing—total vibe reset.”
- “Sold-out energy without the hassle; indie gems everywhere, easy walking, and that community buzz made it my new annual pilgrimage.”
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What's the difference between the main stage and Aftershock events?
The free main stage in Market Square runs 12:00 PM-8:00 PM with big headline sets like Everything Everything, family-friendly crowds, and street food—perfect for daytime dipping in. Aftershock kicks off post-8:00 PM across 10+ intimate venues (pubs, churches) with paid entry (£5-15 GBP/$6.50-19.50 USD), featuring DJs, emerging acts, and late-night energy till 2:00 AM. It's a seamless shift from open-air fest to bar crawl; buy Aftershock tickets per venue via Gigantic or apps. Pro tip: Grab a festival map for hopping—stay hydrated, as Burton's brews tempt! Overall, main for accessibility, Aftershock for immersion.
How can I get involved as a volunteer or through youth programs?
Sign up via sonicboomusiccic.org for volunteer roles like stage setup, bar stewarding, or artist wrangling (4-8 hour shifts, free merch and Aftershock passes). No experience needed—training in August 2026; families welcome for lighter duties. For youth (16-25), join TURBO pilot: hands-on festival ops, Bronze Arts Awards, oversubscribed so apply early (January deadline). Builds CVs with real cred; past alums land gigs in events. Email volunteer@sonicboomusiccic.org—spots fill fast, but year-round events offer entry points. It's rewarding chaos that turns fans into insiders.
Is the festival family-friendly, and what amenities are there?
Yes, daytime main stage is all-ages with chill zones, kids' music workshops via TURBO, and low-alcohol family areas till 6:00 PM. Aftershock is 18+ in venues. Expect porta-loos, first aid tents, lost kids wristbands, and accessible paths/ramps. Food stalls offer kid options like burgers (£5-8 GBP/$6.50-10.50 USD), plus non-boozy drinks. Weather? Covered stages if rain; check app for updates. It's wholesome grassroots fun—many families camp the vibe, blending education on music biz with live thrills. Bring sun cream/ponchos for England's fickle September.
When do tickets for Aftershock go on sale, and what if it sells out?
Presales launch April 2026 via Gigantic Tickets or official site—2025 vanished quick, so sign up for alerts at sonicboomfestival.co.uk. Prices hold steady at £5-15 GBP/$6.50-19.50 USD per gig; bundles may drop for multi-venue access. If sold out, waitlists open or check resale (face value only encouraged). Main stage always free, no cap. Refunds per venue (usually full if 48+ hours notice). Festival caps total at 6,000+ for safety; staggered releases prevent crashes. Early birds snag best acts—follow @sonicboommusicfestival for drops.
What if the weather turns bad—does it still happen?
Rain or shine, Sonic Boom powers through—main stage has marquees and ground cover; Aftershock indoors anyway. Organizers monitor forecasts, announcing minor shifts (e.g., indoor backups) via socials/app by morning. Past wet years? Crowds huddle closer, amps crank louder—iconic muddy indie lore! Wellies advised; no refunds for weather (it's free main anyway). Safety first: wind delays rare, medics on-site. Embrace the British drizzle—it adds that authentic fest grit, turning potential puddles into playlist-worthy memories. Updates galore to keep you dry-ish.
