Canterbury's Beloved CSP In The Park returns to the city over the first May Bank Holiday weekend, bringing two days of great music, great tunes, great food and great vibes to the Dan John Gardens on 4th and 5th May 2024.
For many years the City Sound Project was one of the most popular live music and dance events in Canterbury, bringing big name acts and local artists to multiple venues and outdoor venues at the start of summer. Following a short hiatus, the festival is back and promises to be better than ever.
We talked to founder Blake McCaskill about the history of CSP - and got his top tips for enjoying the big weekend...
What's The CSP Story?
As the founder and organiser, I couldn't be more excited to bring back our much-loved, free-to-enter music festival after a five-year absence.
It's been quite a journey to get here. Over the past few years, we've faced our fair share of challenges. Like many events around the world, CSP In The Park had to take a hiatus due to the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a tough decision, but the safety and well-being of our attendees, performers, and staff were always our top priority.
But the challenges didn't stop there. Like many small businesses and community events, we also faced funding issues in the wake of the pandemic. Securing the necessary resources to make CSP In The Park a reality again wasn't easy. We had to get creative, explore new avenues of support, and rally the incredible Canterbury community behind us.
And let me tell you, the support we received was nothing short of amazing. From local businesses to passionate music enthusiasts, everyone has come together to ensure that CSP In The Park would rise again. It's a testament to the resilience and spirit of Canterbury, and I'm endlessly grateful for the public’s support making this comeback possible. We announced the return with a Facebook event, and within 48 hours, we’d had almost 5,000 positive responses.
The lineup this year is truly spectacular with a really exciting mix of artists covering multiple genres. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time attendee, you will find something to move to.
But CSP In The Park isn't just about the music. It's about bringing people together, it’s about the community, and creating unforgettable memories. And it really does make you proud of Canterbury. We get to welcome new people to the city and celebrate its culture and its spirit together. Music really does bring people together like nothing else.
What You Need To Know
When & Where: CSP In The Park will be taking place at the picturesque Dane John Gardens in Canterbury on SAT 4th + SUN 5th MAY, 2024. Festivities kick off at 12noon and continue until 7.30 each day, ensuring plenty of time to soak up the musical magic.
What to Expect: Get ready for a weekend filled with sensational live performances across multiple stages, showcasing a diverse lineup of artists spanning various genres including Soulful Blues, Acoustic Singer-Songwriters, Electronic DJs and even a Brass Band (albeit a very contemporary one).
In addition to the incredible music, expect to find Kent’s BEST Street Food and a Fully Licensed Festival Bar (stocked with Harbour Brewing and Curious Brew on draft. We’re also delivering a vibrant artisan marketplace bustling with local vendors.
How to Get There: Dane John Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Canterbury, making the site easily accessible by foot, bike, public transport, or car. If you're arriving by train, Canterbury West and Canterbury East railway stations are just a short walk away. For those driving, there are several parking facilities nearby, although we encourage carpooling or using public transport whenever possible to keep things green.
Top Tips for Enjoying the Day
Plan Ahead: Take some time to peruse the lineup and schedule on our website (www.cspinthepark.uk) before arriving. Highlight your must-see acts and make a loose itinerary to ensure you catch all your favourites.
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and snag yourself a prime spot close to the stage by arriving early. It's worth it for the best views and acoustics.
Stay Hydrated, Sun-Safe and Dry: With all the excitement of the festival, don't forget to take care of yourself. Remember to drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen regularly - even if the sun isn't out those UV rays can still get you! - and seek shade when needed to stay comfortable throughout the day. Bring a waterproof jacket too in case of bank holiday showers.
Explore Everything: Don't limit yourself to just the music; take the time to explore everything CSP In The Park has to offer. From sampling delicious local cuisine to browsing unique artisanal goods, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Connect with Others: One of the highlights of any music festival is the sense of community it fosters. Strike up a conversation with fellow attendees, make new friends, and share your favourite festival moments together.
Explore the rest of the City: Canterbury has a wealth of independent shops, bars and restaurants to enjoy throughout the weekend, so please support local and consider booking a table for dinner and drinks later in the day. Visit Canterbury has some great tips on where to eat in the city, or why not make a weekend of it with an overnight break? The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
