Fringe Artist Application

How do I apply to be a BunkFest Fringe artist?

To apply to play at BunkFest Fringe please complete this form. We cannot accept applications received via other formats, including via email.

More information about the Fringe can be found below. For any questions regarding the application process or about the Fringe festival, email artists@bunkfest.co.uk.

Please also be aware that:

• We receive hundreds of email applications each year and are unable to formally respond to them all
• Since we use one application form for all our festival sites, the form includes options to apply for the main site stages as well as for the Fringe. Feel free to apply for the larger stages as well as for the Fringe but please bear in mind that we have a huge number of applications, for the main stage in particular. We are only able to select a very small number to play on the main sites.

BUNKFEST FRINGE
The Fringe is the community heart of BunkFest, taking place across the town over three days. We have up to fringe 20 venues each year, all with their own unique atmosphere – and include pubs, clubs, a theatre, a river boat and a train! They range from large and fully rigged stages (e.g. the Boat House Riverside Stage) to more intimate and informal venues. We welcome a wide range of genres (folk, rock, blues, indie, alternative, jazz, ska, punk and many more) – and applications from all ages and abilities, genders, colours and creeds.

BunkFest is run entirely by volunteers, which helps to keep the festival free for those attending. Our Fringe team works throughout the year to organise the venues, schedule and sound provision for more than 100 artists performing on the fringe each year. We provide a PA and sound engineer support in all venues with the exception of the ’singing train’ which is an acoustic venue. Backline is only provided at a small number of fringe venues.

Timescales for 2026
Applications will need to be received by the end of February 2026 to be considered for the 2026 festival. After that date we may consider applications which fill a gap in our programming (e.g. a genre we are particularly interested in) but cannot guarantee that all applications will be reviewed. We are a small volunteer team and receive hundreds of applications every year so – although we would love to – we can’t write back to everyone individually. If you have not heard from us by the end of March 2026 please assume we would not like to take up your offer for this year.

How does payment work?
Each year we have a set amount of fully paid slots alongside other ‘expenses only’ and volunteer slots. Our aim is to support artists who earn a living from what they do and support the local music scene, whilst also creating opportunities for everyone who would like to play at this amazing local event, and keeping the festival free to attend. Many artists offer us a ‘weekend package’ (e.g. one paid gig plus additional volunteer spots) or negotiate a rate for several performances over the weekend. When you complete the form, you will have a chance to tell us on what basis you are applying – just let us know what might work for you.