June
What: Tree of Life Festival
When: 13-18 June
Where: Karagöl Lake, Izmir, Turkey
How Much: €80-140
The Tree of Life festival is set against the backdrop of the picturesque Karagöl Lake and has a distinctly bohemian twist. A psychedelic music and arts gathering aimed at creating peace, unity and global respect; there is plenty of scope to embrace your inner hippy here. The vast selection of musical talent on offer is complimented superbly with the mind-expanding and often trippy visual displays. For the active amongst you, head to Loopy Lou’s hoola hoop workshop. Those who simply wish to chill, the Anahata Relaxation Dome provides the ideal background soundtrack.
What: Meltdown 2013
When: 14-23 June
Where: Southbank Centre, London
How Much: Ticket prices vary
Yoko Ono adds her name to the prestigious list of cultural aficionados that have curated Meltdown at London’s 21 acre Southbank Centre. The octogenarian faces quite a challenge in order to match former spectacles such as Bowie playing his entire Low album or when Morrissey reformed the New York Dolls in 2004 specifically for the festival. Often unfairly disregarded as John Lennon’s other half or the one who (according to certain schools of thought) broke up The Beatles, Ono’s CV speaks for itself on closer inspection. A lengthy career in music collaborating with an impressive selection of artists from Paul Simon to Eric Clapton and her achievements across visual arts, feminism and peace activism will generate plenty of inspiration for a stimulating few days.
July
What: Random Acts of Kindness Festival
When: 19-21 July
Where: Clonakilty, Co.Cork
How Much: Free
Clonakilty is a town that prides itself on a strong sense of community. When the town was hit with disastrous floods in 2012 the residents struck back with the début Random Acts of Kindness Festival and the motto “cut the misery, spread the positivity”. Not only did it make the Six One News but even got a shout out via Twitter from Hollywood’s eternal optimist Goldie Hawn. This year the town has linked up with groups from the UK, United States and New Zealand, bringing an international dynamic to the festival. Expect a variety of workshops, musical collaborations and some fine local food produce.
