Calling all local musicians and entertainers

As you probably know, the Rare Breeds Centre is part of Canterbury Oast Trust. Next year marks an incredible milestone: 40 years of Canterbury Oast Trust as a registered charity! That’s 40 years of supporting adults with learning disabilities and, more recently, also autistic people. To celebrate this amazing achievement, the people we support have spoken and they want to mark it in style!

We’re thrilled to announce a two-day music festival on September 5th and 6th 2025, complete with 80s-themed fancy dress, a cake competition, and plenty of entertainment. The first day will be dedicated to our supported people, their families, friends, staff, and supporters, while the second day will be open to the public.

We are now seeking local musicians, bands and entertainers to help make this milestone event truly outstanding, especially those who can bring the sounds of the ‘80s to life in honour of our 1985 roots.

Are you part of a band or a talented solo artist? A comedian, magician, caricaturist or other performer? Please do get in touch with us if you are interested in being part of this incredible celebration on one or both days by emailing [email protected].

More ways to help

To make this dream a reality, we’re calling on our amazing community to help with the wish list developed by our supported people. If there is anything on the list that you might be able to help with, please get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Wish list:

• A tethered hot air balloon
• Caterers and bars
• Marquees and music stage arrangements
• Event decorations
• Prizes for the cake competition and 80’s-themed fancy dress contest

Sponsorship and fundraising

We also need financial support to fund the event. Here’s how you can help:

• Financial Support: visit our music festival fundraising page, make a donation and share with your family and friends.
• Corporate Sponsorship: could an organisation you know be a potential sponsor for this event? Let us know!
• Fundraising initiatives and sponsored activities: you can start a fundraiser on Just Giving. Just create an account and search for Canterbury Oast Trust to get started.

Let’s come together and make Canterbury Oast Trust’s 40th anniversary a celebration to remember!