As any veteran will tell you, Electric Picnic is about a lot more than just music. Following on from this afternoon's initial line-up announcement, we thought it wise to shine a torch on some of the other elements to the traditional EP experience which will be returning once more this August and September.
The ever-popular Body & Soul area will be returning once more with all its extra trimmings, bespoke stages and quirky installations. Whether it be some late night music, food or a 1am hot tub you're after, the Body & Soul area is where you'll most likely find it. This section of Electric Picnic has grown so quickly that it has developed into a standalone festival of its own, which will take place towards the end of June.
Mindfield, a haven of free-thinking, performance art, poetry and debate will also return this summer and will again include the Leviathan stage, a forum for some of the most intriguing political and economic debate you're likely to ever engage in while standing in wellies.
Creativity and collaboration are themes prevalent within the Global Green, an area which draws a wide and diverse community of activists, artists and social entrepreneurs.
It's probably fair to assume that the Salty Dog Stage, a pirate ship stage set deep within the woods surrounding the festival site, has been mistaken for a drink-fueled hallucination by EP newbies. No, there really is a pirate ship in the middle of the woods and yes, you can catch some excellent impromptu unannounced gigs here from bands who have played on the main stage. That, and reggae blasting 'til 6am.
The Comedy Tent will also return again this year and will house some of the country's most beloved comic talents. They say that laughter is the best medicine, but we're not sure if that applies to Grade A hangovers. One way to find I out though, I guess.
Foodies will be enthralled once more by the gastronomic delights of the Theatre of Food. Food demos, pop up dining, panel discussions, a farmers market and much more will all be on hand to keep your tummy rumbling with anticipation. And if you hang around out the back for long enough they might even throw you a few scraps, Lady and the Tramp style.
The Soul Kids area will cater for any young 'uns in your group, just as how Trenchtown will look after anyone in your party who sports dreadlocks - either physically or in spirit. Oh, and then there's Fossett's Circus.
They've looked after everything really, haven't they?
To see the list of band's who have been announced so far, check out our article from this afternoon.
