Brad Pittance and the Pirates group entertain on Saturday Photo: Ray Duff
By Ray Duff – Folkestone was buzzing with music and energy as the Skabour Festival took over the town last weekend.
Friday kicks off with festivalgoers dancing to the group ‘Heroes’ Photo: Ray Duff
The festival, which celebrates ska and reggae music, was held at The Grand Burstin Hotel and other venues along the seafront. It was organised by the Skabour Collective and supported two charities: MINDSouthEast and Sue Ryder.
The main check in stall which also sold merchandise Photo: Ray Duff
The festival featured a variety of bands and DJ’s who performed in front of enthusiastic crowds in The Burstin ballroom. Acts included Heroes, The Skalites, The Skatonics, Legend, Les Calcatoggious (from Germany), 2Tones, Brad Pittance and the Pirates, Easy Dread, Special Kinda Madness, Susan Cadogan, Altones, Certified Madness and Localmotives.
The music continued in nearby pubs including The Ship, The Mariner and The Royal George, where more ska and reggae acts entertained the fans. There were also Skabour Fringe events at The Chambers, The Quarterhouse, Speedway and Arc House.
The Mariner Inn, held Skabour DJ’s all weekend on The Stade Photo: Ray Duff
The festival also attracted many scooter enthusiasts who brought their ‘mod’ scooters and motorbikes to display outside The Burstin and The Royal George. On Sunday, they took part in the annual Scooter Ride – Out, which was led by piper Chris Bone. They rode to Romney Marsh and back, creating a spectacular sight.
The scooter ride-out on Sunday was well attended Photo: Ray Duff
The festival also showcased an art exhibition at Folkestone Museum, which will run until 31 October 2023.
The audience enjoys music by another ska music group Photo: Ray Duff
The exhibition features artworks related to ska and reggae music and culture.
More stuff- www.skabour.co.uk