About

SONIC BOOM FESTIVAL IS WAY MORE THAN JUST A FESTIVAL
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‍Sonic Boom Music Festival is produced by Sonic Boom Music CIC — a not-for-profit organisation based in Burton upon Trent, using music to drive regeneration, build opportunities, and put culture back at the heart of our town.

It began in 2023 with a month-long celebration of live music across Burton. Over fifty artists took part, and every event — from folk and ska to Bangladeshi ragas and psychedelic prog — focused on original and emerging talent. Shows sold out, and fans come from as far as the US.
The Burton Music Collective was born, and the idea grew.

In September 2024 and 2025, Sonic Boom Festival took over Burton town centre. More than 10,000 music fans came to our town. BBC Radio 6 Music’s Chris Hawkins hosted the free main stage in the Market Square headlined by The K's in 2024 and Everything Everything in 2025. Nationally attended, locally delivered, and completely independent.

“Last year’s festival was unbelievable with an outstanding lineup. Next year, the energy and atmosphere will be next level… Sonic Boom  is doing it right!”
‍Chris Hawkins, BBC Radio 6 Music

“It was awesome, such a good day and so well organised. Please please please do this again next year. Massive thanks and well done to all involved”
Festival attendee

“From a gig goer for over 20 years, I’ve got to say this is has been one of the best run festivals I’ve been too, great lineup of bands, bar and toilets ran smoothly with no issues, no long queues, I would have gladly paid for this event.”
2024 festival attendee

“Great festival for all the family. Well done to the organisers, we had a blast.”
Festival attendee
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“I’m not from Burton but this was an amazing event for the town and the local economy. A fantastic mix of artists of which every one went down really well. I’ve got an interest in grassroots music and events like these are an incredible way to get the message out there.”
Festival attendee

Alongside the festival, we run a youth training programme pilot. TURBO is annually oversubscribed, and a cohort of young people complete Bronze Arts Awards — getting hands-on experience and access behind the scenes at a major festival. In 2026, we extend the programme, supported by Burton College.

"A fantastic opportunity to get involved in the industry and to see how a live event is run smoothly by industry professionals." 
TURBO participant

"I'm dyslexic and have Dyspraxia. The course leaders did a great job in accommodating my hands-on learning style. I've already recommended you to my friends." 
TURBO participant

"This was a great program for getting to try everything in the industry to see what you like to do." 
TURBO participant

We’re laying the foundations for a permanent grassroots venue in the town: a creative hub with a live room co-working and training facilities. It will be the year-round heartbeat of our scene — a base for emerging talent and a destination for national touring artists.
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‍Get Involved

‍Sonic Boom Music CIC is a community led not-for-profit, powered by collaboration with artists, educators, funders, audiences, and volunteers.
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If you’d like to be part of this story — or help us write the next chapter — we’d love to talk. ‍We’re seeking aligned organisations, sponsors, and collaborators to help us grow a sustainable music economy in Burton.

‍Donate

‍Support our work with a one-off or monthly donation. Donate now

Volunteer
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Help make the festival amazing, support our year round events, or join our creative crew. Volunteer now

BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF MUSIC.