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The Story Behind the 499 Festival

The Story Behind the 499 Festival
By Consett Magazine Editorial Team1 October 20261 min readArts & Culture, What's On in Consett, Photographs
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Since launching in 2018, the 499 Festival has grown into a much-loved weekend of live music, camping, good food and great company.

With tickets capped at just 300, the festival keeps things relaxed, friendly and spacious, with local food, drinks and plenty of dressing up for the themed Saturday night.

A bass guitarist playing on stage under blue and white stage lights at the 499 Festival.
On stage at the 499 Festival. Photograph: Mark Wilkinson, Communities in Focus.

The festival has also proudly supported Great North Air Ambulance Service since the beginning, raising a fantastic £1,513 in 2026.

This year’s event was a sell-out, welcoming 300 guests and more than 70 campervans, caravans and motorhomes.

A singer at the microphone and a guitarist performing in the marquee at the 499 Festival.
A sell-out again this year, with 300 guests and more than 70 campervans, caravans and motorhomes. Photograph: Mark Wilkinson, Communities in Focus.
Festival goers watching something on a phone together in the marquee.
The 499 Festival keeps its ticket numbers capped at 300. Photograph: Mark Wilkinson, Communities in Focus.

Next festival: 9 July 2027.

Words and photographs by Mark Wilkinson, Communities in Focus

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