From pushchairs to partygoers: the families who've grown up with Tribfest

Over the past couple of weeks, a deer park in the beautiful grounds of Sledmere House in East Yorkshire has quietly undergone a massive transformation.

The deer have been temporarily rehoused, and the site is well on its way to becoming the home of Tribfest—the world’s largest tribute act festival.

Blondie tribute Heart of Glass on the main stage at Tribfest.placeholder image
Blondie tribute Heart of Glass on the main stage at Tribfest.

From August 21- 23, thousands of music lovers will descend upon the sleepy village of Sledmere to enjoy one of the most anticipated festivals in the summer calendar.

Those attending Tribfest are a loyal bunch; many have been returning every single year since the very first event in 2007.

Tribfest line-upplaceholder image
Tribfest line-up

Festival Director Ed Faulkner said: “When we started out, some of our youngest visitors were being pushed around the site in buggies. Fast forward to today, and a large number of those same children are returning with partners, friends, and even little ones of their own.

“It’s a wonderful, joyous weekend. Multi-generational families get together, friendships are rekindled, and memories are made year after year.

“There’s something truly magical about seeing youngsters belting out the words to songs that were chart hits long before they were born, while members of the older generation dance wildly to punk and classic rock bands.”

Operations Director Dempsey Faulkner added: "I love seeing the different generations enjoying the festival together. That's the beauty of Tribfest.

“There really is something for everyone, and it's lovely knowing we've helped create memories that families will talk about for years to come. It’s a special place, and we can’t wait to welcome all the old and new Tribfest family back to Sledmere House later this month.”

To celebrate the 2026 festival, the Tribfest team is inviting attendees to share their favorite memories from the past 19 years. Whether it's photos taken in the exact same spot every summer, or stories of lifelong friendships, engagements, and family traditions, the team would love to hear your story.

Across the six stages, there is something for everyone. Main stage headliners feature incredible tributes to Madonna, Pink Floyd, The Killers, and David Bowie. Throughout the weekend, you can also catch hits from The Beatles, ABBA, U2, The Police, Fleetwood Mac, and many more.

Beyond the tribute bands, there is plenty of other fantastic entertainment across the site, including The Unsigned Marquee, Acoustic Marquee, Laughing Bull Comedy Marquee, Bono's Music Barn, and the Kidzone.

Dempsey added: “Like any other major festival, Tribfest provides all the services you’d expect: a range of retail and catering outlets, fantastically clean toilets, hot showers, electrical hook-ups, first aid, top security, and fun, friendly staff!

“Plus, with a capacity of 5,000, Tribfest doesn’t get overcrowded like many other festivals, so you can always find your friends for a dance.”

A small number of tickets are still available for this year’s festival. Visit www.tribfest.co.uk to book yours and find out how you can be part of the magic.

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