Best Kept SecretLakeside music festival with diverse genres and intimate vibes.

Best Kept Secret
Beekse Bergen, Hilvarenbeek, North Brabant, Netherlands
indie
rock
hip-hop
folk
electronic
art installations

Best Kept Secret is a three-day music festival held annually in early to mid-June at the Beekse Bergen safari park in Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands. Since its inception in 2013, the festival has been celebrated for its eclectic mix of genres, picturesque lakeside setting, and a laid-back, intimate atmosphere that appeals to music lovers seeking both big-name acts and emerging talents.

Music and Artists

Best Kept Secret offers a diverse musical lineup, featuring:

  • Indie
  • Folk
  • Hip-Hop
  • Rock
  • Electronic

Over the years, the festival has hosted notable performers such as:

  • Radiohead
  • Arctic Monkeys
  • PJ Harvey
  • St. Vincent
  • Justice

The festival features multiple stages, including an open-air main stage and several tent stages, each offering unique acoustics and atmospheres. This setup allows attendees to experience a variety of performances in different settings, from large-scale productions to more intimate shows.

Location

The festival takes place at Beekse Bergen, a safari park located in Hilvarenbeek, North Brabant, Netherlands. The venue is known for its scenic beauty, featuring a central lake that adds to the festival's relaxed vibe. The natural surroundings provide a unique backdrop, enhancing the overall experience. The festival grounds are thoughtfully arranged to accommodate various stages, food stalls, and art installations, creating an immersive environment for attendees.

Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

Best Kept Secret boasts several stages, each with its own character:

  • Main Stage (ONE): The primary open-air stage hosting headline acts.
  • Tent Stages (TWO, FIVE, SEVEN): Covered stages offering a more intimate setting for performances.
  • Dance Floors (THREE, FOUR): Dedicated areas for electronic and dance music enthusiasts.

This variety ensures there's always something to suit different musical tastes.

Food and Drinks

The festival is renowned for its diverse and sustainable food options, including:

  • Vegetarian and Vegan Choices: A range of plant-based meals to cater to different dietary preferences.
  • Local Specialties: Dishes highlighting regional flavors and ingredients.
  • Beverages: A selection of craft beers, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks to keep you refreshed.

This emphasis on quality and variety ensures that attendees have plenty of delicious options to choose from.

Fashion and Culture

Festival-goers often embrace a casual yet expressive style, reflecting the event's relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. You'll see a mix of bohemian, indie, and eclectic fashion, with attendees showcasing their individuality through unique outfits and accessories.

Camping

For those looking to stay on-site, Best Kept Secret offers camping options with amenities such as:

  • Standard Camping: Basic facilities for a traditional camping experience.
  • Comfort Camping: Upgraded amenities for a more comfortable stay.

Camping allows festival-goers to fully immerse themselves in the experience and enjoy the community vibe.

Tickets and Attendance

The festival typically attracts around 15,000 visitors per day, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Ticket options include:

  • Single-Day Tickets: For those who wish to attend on a specific day.
  • Weekend Passes: Providing access to all three days of the festival.

Tickets are usually available for purchase through the festival's official website, with sales starting several months in advance. It's advisable to secure tickets early, as the festival has a history of selling out.

History

Founded in 2013 by the Dutch booking agency Friendly Fire, Best Kept Secret was created with the vision of offering a festival that the organizers themselves would want to attend. The inaugural event sold out each day, welcoming 15,000 visitors. Over the years, the festival has garnered accolades, including nominations at the European Festival Awards for Best Festival Line-Up and Best Medium-Sized Festival in 2014. In 2013, it won the 'Best Festival Award' at the 'IJzeren Podiumdieren' award show at Eurosonic Noorderslag. The festival continues to evolve, consistently delivering a blend of well-known artists and emerging talents across various genres.

Sustainability Efforts

Best Kept Secret is committed to sustainability, implementing initiatives such as:

  • Diverse and Sustainable Food Options: Including vegetarian meals, soups, and juices to cater to various dietary preferences and reduce environmental impact.
  • Waste Management: Efforts to minimize waste and promote recycling throughout the festival grounds.
  • Energy Conservation: Utilizing energy-efficient technologies and practices to reduce the festival's carbon footprint.

These measures reflect the festival's dedication to environmental responsibility and community engagement.

For more information, visit the official Best Kept Secret website. Best Kept Secret

Find out more at official Best Kept Secret website.