CarFest was created by Chris Evans in 2012 with a simple yet profound purpose - to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thirteen years on, this mission remains at the heart of everything CarFest does.
For Halle, childhood has been anything but typical. At just four years old, she was diagnosed with Wilms tumour, a rare form of kidney cancer. Instead of running through playgrounds and making memories with friends, her early years were spent enduring intense treatment, leaving her feeling isolated and disconnected.
But the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust changed that. Founded by Dame Ellen MacArthur, the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust gives young people affected by cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through the power of sailing and shared experiences.
“I remember feeling nervous before my first trip,” Halle recalls, “but by the end, I didn’t want to leave. I met people who understood exactly how I felt, and for the first time in a long time, I felt free.”
Now thriving in secondary school, Halle refuses to let cancer define her. Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust gave her a sense of adventure, new friendships, and a safe space to connect with others who have walked a similar path.
Her family describes the experience as: “A rainbow amongst the grey — feeling like you can find enjoyment off the back of a horrendous, life-altering event, live life to the fullest, and discover new adventures.”
Visitors come to family-fundraising festival CarFest to hear incredible music, make memories with loved ones, and be part of something bigger. Ten per cent of every ticket sold goes towards seven incredible charities supporting children, teens, and families across the UK.
This year CarFest will be raising funds for BBC Children in Need which receives 50% of the total funds raised. Other national charity partners, Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust and Young Epilepsy, who will each receive 7% of the funds raised.
Hampshire-based charity Naomi’s House & Jacksplace will receive 2%. The remaining 13% will be donated to additional causes, including those local to the CarFest event site. Every ticket purchased contributes directly to supporting these incredible causes.
This year’s Do More Good Week shines a spotlight on these charities by sharing the stories of several young ambassadors - extraordinary children whose lives have been changed by CarFest’s support.
Since 2012, CarFest has raised over £25 million for its charitable partners, and in 2024 alone, an impressive £1.26 million was donated. This August Bank Holiday (22nd-24th), CarFest returns to Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire, featuring six festivals rolled into one: FoodFest, KidsFest, RetroFest, SpaFest, StarFest, and Cars at CarFest.
This year, 10 per cent of ticket sales and all festival profits will go directly to these charities, ensuring that more children like Halle can find joy, confidence, and adventure beyond their diagnosis.
This summer, global pop sensation Rita Ora will headline the Main Stage on Saturday, August 23. That’s not all, and alongside Rita, fans can enjoy a whole host of acts, including the rock-tastic Travis, folk-rock musician Tom Walker, 80s pop sensations Madness as well as the smooth blues of Seasick Steve to name a few.
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend! Tickets are available now at www.carfest.org