Rivington Street Festival 2013 kicks off this summer’s street music

The start of summer? Well the start of this year’s street festivals anyway, and Shoreditch sets the tone with the Rivington Street Festival. Returning after the success of the Jubilee celebrations last year, on Sunday 23^rd June 2013 Rivington Street was cordoned off once more to allow for their massive annual free party to ensue. First come, first served – kids, adults and hipsters alike.

This East London hotspot isn’t physically cut-out to play host to a summer festival, but that’s what makes the atmosphere so distinctive. During daylight hours, hundreds of people cram down the narrow street to peruse the art and crafts, jewellery and clothing stalls, or dart into one of the street’s niche fashion boutiques, galleries and cafés for a pit-stop. Beer can be bought from pop-up bars, cigarettes from glamorous ladies in air hostess costumes and cocktails sourced from local venues, before heading off to one of the two outdoor stages hidden down opposing alleyways. These played host to an eclectic medley of live music, DJs and spoken word, encouraging a crowd of bopping, bouncing bodies.

The festival is curated from the creative hub of Shoreditch with the musical element showcasing a collection of local, innovative promoters such as Rock the Belles, Livin’ Proof, Batty Bass and UK dub/reggae label, Reggae Roast. There was also a street performance zone between the two stages. Athletic (and attractive) young men demonstrated unusual and mesmerizing street gymnastics. Splayed inside giant metal hoops, they rolled gracefully around on the ground as part of Intelligent Movement – a pleasant surprise and well worth a watch.

As the light dimmed and the market stands began to pack up, the hardcore Rivington festival-goers revved up a gear, moving indoors for further entertainment at nearby venues including the popular Cargo, Callooh Calley and Strongroom clubs.

This is a fun and friendly all day street festival that is both multifaceted and accessible. If you didn’t make it this year, be sure to book the Monday off work in advance of next year’s events.

Verdict: ★★★★★                                                

Emily May

For further information about Rivington Street Festival visit here.

Watch a teaser for Rivington Street Festival 2013 here: