upfront
CARDIFF MARDI GRAS
IT ’ S that time of year again that the Cardiff Mardi Gras returns for what is always a truly unique and colourful event that ’ s all about individuality , acceptance and respect . Whatever your interests or background , Cardiff Mardi Gras has a lot to offer whether you ’ re gay or straight . This year ’ s event makes its first appearance at the Millennium Stadium , and despite its size they ’ ll be hoping to pack out the venue with revellers keen on taking in the packed programme of entertainment on offer . Rylan Clark , the X Factor and Celebrity Big Brother Star will be acting as your fabulous host for the evening ’ s events , whilst soulful diva Beverly Knight will be headlining proceedings with some of her finest hits from six fantastic albums . To save yourself from the anguish of missing such a legend of the British soul scene , you ’ ll be well advised to get your ticket in advance . The Lady GaGa Experience also features on the bill . Of course , the queen of quirkiness won ’ t be here herself , but the UK ’ s No . 1 impersonator will be just as good , right ? Probably not , but you ’ ll swear she ’ s the real thing after a few ‘ cheeky vimtos ’ anyway . From the current reality talent circuit , you ’ ll also find X Factor ’ s Diva Fever and The Voice ’ s Sean Rumsey blasting out some show-stopping tunes . The event is set to be jam-packed with talent and will also feature gay scene legend Dr Bev , singer Stacey Jackson , self-confessed “ great-looking boyband ” Class A , LGBT supporter Frasier Banks , and part-time lawyer rest of the time popstar , Bowie Jane . These guys will all be performing alongside a whole host of other talented acts to ensure that the day isn ’ t short of entertainment . The return of the parade will also provide ample opportunity to revel in the proud celebrations , and there ’ ll also be a range of informative stalls to peruse during the event . If you ’ re looking for somewhere to stay during the festivities , Park Plaza are working in partnership with Cardiff ’ s Mardi Gras to offer some special offers for those attending . LAURA RILEY
Cardiff Mardi Gras , Sat 31 Aug , Millennium Stadium , Cardiff . Tickets : £ 8 . Info : www . cardiffmardigras . co . uk
CROISSANT NEUF
TIRED of rancid festival toilets and crowds so big you can ’ t even register who ’ s playing ? Fear not , the perfect festival solution arrives on Thurs 8 Aug with the return of the fantastically named Croissant Neuf Summer Party at a secret location near Usk in Monmouthshire . The festival prides itself on being one of the best kept secrets on the UK festival scene , and catering largely for the family audience , it offers no shortage of activities that range from circus fun to crafts , workshops and therapies whilst maintaining ethical , environmental values . As the winner of the UK ’ s Greenest Festival Award for three years running , solar panels and wind generators power the entire festival site . To add to this , 2013 sees the introduction of two shiny new festival pubs serving the finest beers , real ales and ciders for mum and dad to enjoy at the end , or even during , busy days of festival adventure which takes in another fancy dress theme for all to take part in . This year ’ s theme of Medieval merriment should provide an abundant array of fantastic costumes . Having been graced by pop royalty , including Ed Sheeran and The Magic Numbers in recent years , the music plays an important part in making CNSP so appealing to so many people . The festival this year includes headliner Natty , a London-based Motown artist fresh from this year ’ s Glastonbury performance who also supported reggae star Ziggy Marley on his 2011 US tour . With gypsy folk rockers Gabby Young And Other Animals heading the bill on Sunday and other exciting prospects such as Zervas & Pepper and newcomers Crowns in support , there ’ s every reason to rave about the array of musical talent on offer throughout the weekend . With an capacity of just a few thousand , the festival ’ s premise , aside from being extremely green , is that of cooperation and friendliness . Resembling a village-like atmosphere in comparison with festivals such as Glastonbury , Reading and V , CNSP creates a far more personal , secure experience . For an alternative , familydriven activity weekend , there ’ s no better solution this summer . TOM HOUGHTON
Croissant Neuf Summer Party , Thurs 8-Sun 11 Aug , near Usk , Monmouthshire . Tickets : £ 105 . Info : www . croissantneuf . co . uk
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