New East Sussex festival for the van-life community

The Urban Van Festival offers a new festival for the Vanlife community.

“Vanlifers convert vans into campervans. Some live in them full time for many reasons, either the cost of living or just to have a free way of life”, explains Josie Weaver who is organising the festival with Kev Hepplestone.

“The Urban Van Festival also welcomes campervans, motorhomes and tents for a weekend of fun and wellness, with a stage offering live entertainment from local and upcoming musicians, plus a few local-known bands, Friday and Saturday 11am-11pm, 11am-6pm Sunday. For more information please go to www.urbanvanfest.com

“There will be a variety of food stalls, an artisan and craft market and trade stands, fair rides, and also a chance to view vans on show in Van Alley, the van exhibition area with a mix of self-converted vans or company built to offer inspiration to budding vanlifers or the intrigued.

"There will also be a wellness area with yoga, Pilates, qigong, meditation, and lots more, free talks and workshops, activities including incense stick making and archery.

"The weekend camping is from Friday to Monday morning with an option to arrive Thursday, July 18.”

The Urban Van Festival is a new festival organised by Josie Weaver and Kev Hepplestone. The couple who have a small events business run a regular 70s and 80s charity retro disco in aid of St Barnabas Hospice. Josie was the founder of the first Worthing Pride in 2018 and ran the event for two years.

“The van life community is a growing community. These weekends provide a chance to make new friends and happy memories in a safe environment,” she said. “The Urban Van Fest is supporting The Samaritans mental health charity who will be present at the event.

“Solo campers, couples, families, groups of all ages and furry dog friends welcome, disabled spaces available.

"Join us for an exciting weekend of fun, friendship and entertainment.”