How do I apply to be an artist?
To apply to play at BunkFest please complete this form. We are unable to accept applications received via other formats, including email.
Information about our sites and stages can be found below. When you complete the form, we will ask you to specify which stage/s you are applying for.
Please be aware that we receive hundreds of email applications each year and are unable to formally respond to them all.
MAIN STAGE AND BULLCROFT STAGE
The main stage is on our main festival site (the Kinecroft). The line-up is almost finalised for 2026 already but please feel free to apply for future years.
The Bullcroft Stage is our second – and slightly smaller – main stage, located in the family-friendly Bullcroft arena.
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.