Will Docks Fest revolutionise tourism in England’s Cleethorpes?

Monday, January 29, 2024

Cleethorpes is set to become a hub of musical euphoria and tourism revival with the launch of Docks Fest, a dynamic new music festival that promises to draw thousands to the region. This 5,000-capacity event, scheduled for the 6th of July 2024 at the Meridian Showground (MSG), isn’t just another addition to the summer festival circuit; it’s a game-changer for local tourism.

The festival, featuring chart-toppers like Razorlight, The Lottery Winners, Feeder, and Frank Turner, is poised to elevate Cleethorpes to new heights on the cultural map. Dubbed a “significant event for the borough,” Docks Fest is more than just a musical extravaganza; it’s a strategic move to rejuvenate the local economy and extend the traditional tourism season beyond the April-September window.

This initiative, outlined in a North East Lincolnshire Council report, is part of a broader vision to transform the region into a year-round tourist destination. By hosting Docks Fest, Cleethorpes isn’t just showcasing its musical prowess but also demonstrating the untapped potential of the MSG. The venue, which was bustling with activity for 86 days across 19 events in 2023, stands as a testament to the town’s growing appeal as a cultural hotspot.

In a move that signifies the council’s commitment to this vision, plans are underway to expand MSG’s capacity. This expansion isn’t just about accommodating more people; it’s about creating more opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the Cleethorpes experience, leading to longer stays and increased spending in local hospitality and tourism sectors.

The festival comes at a time when the cost of living crisis looms large, yet the council remains optimistic. With a “healthy number of bookings” for ticketed events, Cleethorpes is showing resilience and adaptability in challenging economic times. Councillor Hayden Dawkins sums it up perfectly, noting the town’s evolution into a premier destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a plethora of events year-round.

Docks Fest is more than a festival; it’s a beacon of hope and growth for Cleethorpes. It’s an initiative that not only puts the town on the cultural map but also sparks a domino effect of economic and tourism benefits. With its picturesque setting, the promise of top-tier entertainment, and a vision for a more vibrant future, Cleethorpes is on the cusp of a tourism renaissance.

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