The live events industry’s best day out is traveling north

After 12 years as the established charity fundraiser for the live events industry, the Backup Tech Village Fete is stepping into its next era, and it’s heading north. Built on momentum, shaped by feedback, and driven by the community it exists to support, the Village Fete is moving to a brand-new ‘village’ for 2026, expanding its reach, scale, and ambition while staying true to everything that makes it special.

This summer, the fete takes over Whilton Mill Karting Circuit, Daventry – a nationally recognised motorsport venue offering the space, facilities, and atmosphere to deliver the biggest Village Fete yet. For the first time, attendees will have access to a three-hour karting challenge on a UK National Karting Circuit, expanded capacity and improved facilities, more activities and ways to get involved, and overnight camping that turns the event into a true industry gathering.

The move is built on community feedback and a desire to grow the event’s reach. While the new venue unlocks greater scale, everything that has made the Village Fete the industry’s favourite fundraiser returns in full: the iconic karting competition, the Five-Star Flight Case Challenge (now with its own dedicated track), the Village Fete Bake Off and Veg Off, game fair activities including clay pigeon shooting, fly fishing and axe throwing, exceptional food and drink, and the irreverent industry camaraderie that defines the day.

Overnight camping at the venue is also new for 2026, with plans underway for a pre-race pub night takeover in the local area the evening before the event. Tickets go on general sale in March 2026, with Backup Partners receiving priority access 48 hours before the general release. Multiple ticket options will be available for both karting and non-karting attendees.

All activities take place in support of Backup Tech, the charity providing vital help to live events professionals when they need it most.

Industry networking and next-generation mentoring remain central to the day, alongside the fun, entertainment, and shared mischief that have made the Village Fete the standout event in the live events calendar.

Save the date: Thursday 9 July 2026, Whilton Mill Karting Circuit, Daventry.

Keep an eye out on the Backup website for more info on when tickets go on sale, or sign up to our Newsletter to be informed, via link on the Backup homepage.