Published: July 22, 2021 | Updated: 23rd July 2021
One of Dorset’s favourite charities will benefit when the popular Shake & Stir Vintage Festival makes a triumphant return after a two-year absence.
The celebration of vintage, which is staged in Southbourne, is raising money for MYTIME Young Carers.
The charity supports children and young people caring for family members.
Shake & Stir features vintage fashion, local traders and live music playing the sounds of the 1920s, 1970s and everything in between.
It has delighted visitors for almost a decade, attracting 34,000 people to the last physical event.
The festival’s popularity is attributed to the range and quality of the live music, vintage themed workshops and classic car displays.
Perfect for vintage lovers, families, holidaymakers and locals, Shake & Stir Festival on August 7 and August 8 will include performances from fan favourites, The Fifinellas, DJ Dave and Retro Rita, as well as previous X-factor contender Russell Jones Jr.
There will also be the crowning of this year’s Vintage King or Queen, an appearance from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and dance classes for all ages.
Visitors even have the pick of three evening events: a launch party at Ludo Lounge on Friday, the Saturday night party at Brewhouse & Kitchen, and the Sunday wrap party at The Grove Tavern.
Mandy Polkey, pictured right, Managing Director of Stir Events, who has organised this year’s event, said: “Last year we had a fantastic virtual festival, which was a great success; however, I am excited to get back out this year and see people face to face.
“Community is such a massive part of Shake & Stir; it’s the heritage and origin of the festival.
“Things are going to look slightly different this year, as the event will mostly be taking place on Fisherman’s Walk.
“With live music stages and over 120 local businesses getting involved through performances and stalls, it will be the fabulous, fun-filled weekend we know and love.”
This year, there will also be an art trail and auction to raise money for MYTIME Young Carers.
Local artists, Dhanraz Ramdharry and Lucan Art, will be exhibiting vintage music-themed pieces created specifically for the occasion.
Before being auctioned at Brewhouse & Kitchen at 6.30pm on the Saturday, the art will be dotted around Southbourne high street and the festival site to form an interactive trail for families and those looking to purchase a piece to follow.
Maria Tidy, pictured left, Community Development Manager at MYTIME Young Carers, said: “We’re so pleased to be involved with Shake & Stir this year.
“Children and young people who care for family members face a difficult task at the best of times, and over the past year, where social isolation has been worse than ever, especially for those living with vulnerable individuals, it has been far from the best of times.
“So, we want to thank the Shake & Stir team, and all the artists involved, for supporting our work, it means so much to us and our young carers.”
Mandy said: “After a challenging year, especially for local businesses and performers, it feels like Shake & Stir is just what we all need: great music, feel-good fun and, hopefully, some sunshine.
“Roll on August 7, we’re ready to start the party!”
