WOMAD, WOMAD, WOMAD, how we do love thee, let us count the ways….

So, if you missed out on WOMAD 2024, I can only say one thing: you’re going to need a time machine. We love WOMAD. This year’s festival was, as always, a cosmic explosion of music, culture, and all things fabulous. Held in the lush fields of Charlton Park, it was a vibrant mishmash of global grooves, tantalising tastes, and enough good vibes to make a rainbow jealous.

First things first, the music. Oh, the music! Imagine every corner of the globe squeezing into

your ears and giving them a big, joyous hug. Alison Gold-frapp was a header but here are

three standout acts that made the festival It, for us:

1. Tinariwen: Their electrifying set of desert blues transported us straight to the Sahara, and honestly, I’m still trying to shake the sand out of my shoes.
2. Orchestra Baobab: These legends from Senegal brought a fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms that had everyone moving. Their timeless grooves were nothing short of magical.
3. Anoushka Shankar: Delivered a spellbinding performance, blending traditional

Indian sounds with contemporary flair. It was a journey of pure musical bliss.

• Kumbia Boruka, a French band of Mexican origin, were based around a steady drum pulse and accordion riffs, answered by trumpet and trombone, the music the slow train inevitability of Latin American cumbia. B

Foodies, rejoice! WOMAD didn’t just feed our souls but our stomachs too. The World of Food tent was a culinary carnival – we’re talking mouth-watering street food from every corner of the planet. Here are four food places that had us coming back for more:

• Jerk Joint: The jerk chicken wrap here was so good it made me consider proposing to the chef. Spicy, tangy, and absolutely divine.
• Lush Creperie every year we go for these crepes, such good value and always super delicious, I recommend the savoury ones fully of gorgeous cheese and ham.
• Mumbai Fiery chaat and aromatic curries that transported us straight to the streets of Mumbai. The paneer tikka was a highlight.
• Archies Toasties Shop: 10/10 from my daughter for their chips. She’s the international critic of the century on chips around the world and we brought  another generous boxful

Now, let’s talk vibes. The festival site was decked out in a riot of colours, with art installations that made you feel like you’d tumbled into a Salvador Dalí painting. And the people? Pure gold. Hippies, hipsters, families, and free spirits – everyone was on the same wavelength, just there to soak up the magic and spread the love.

The children’s area was a mini-utopia of crafts and laughter, proving that WOMAD really is a family affair. Here are some of the precise activities that had the little ones (and sometimes the adults) thoroughly entertained:

1. Circus Skills Workshop: From juggling to tightrope walking, kids got to unleash their inner acrobat.
2. Creative Crafts Corner: An area brimming with art supplies where kids could paint, glue, and create to their heart’s content.
3. Drumming Circles: Little ones learned basic rhythms and beats, creating a joyful cacophony that echoed across the fields.
4. Storytelling Sessions: Enchanting tales from around the world were brought to life by charismatic storytellers, capturing imaginations young and old.

In none British fashion, the weather was crazily gorgeous but you can’t order that. Slivers of sunshine shining through the flags and big wheel the whole time…

In a nutshell, WOMAD 2024 was an unforgettable fiesta of culture, community, and unbridled joy. If you haven’t been, mark your calendars for next year. And if you have, well, see you there – same time, same place, more fabulousness guaranteed!