A clothes designer has become the official merchandise partner for Chalfest 2025.
James Widdowson, from Chalford Hill, runs the xTOPIA brand of designed T-shirts and similar contemporary clothing.
“Ever since it was founded in 2017, Chalfest has been a huge part of our family life, as residents in Chalford Hill and at that time I never would have dreamt I would one day be designing clothing for it.
“This year, I have picked up the baton of involvement in my new life as a clothing designer and e-commerce founder at xTOPIA Clothing xtopiaclothing.co.uk, one of Chalfest’s business sponsors.
“I was keen to offer more help than just via my sponsorship. Merchandise is capable of being a money earner, in return for providing much-loved festival wearables and souvenirs for the customers.
“But it is also exposed to risks with the traditional model of relying on a fully-stocked stall in the event itself.
“I put a solution to the Chalfest committee and I’m delighted they supported my proposal to offer my business model of only making what we sell, with everything operated via the website and purchases delivered directly to the end customer before the event (if they order in time). Using only UK-based printers operating their own sustainable business models, I want to deliver not only in terms of eliminating waste but also a sustainable purchased product.
“This approach also enables me to prepare and offer a much wider range. From my limited research, I have not found any festival in the whole of the UK with as high a ratio of merch choices to its size, than what I have turned around for Chalfest.
“There are seven collections, one in collaboration with ruthhickson.com to bring the Chalfest Classic design that everyone knows and loves; the other six collections are “xTOPIA Originals” and tap into my feelings evoked by Chalfest and its music; there’s a story behind each one on the website.
“At time of writing there are 38 different products, loads of different colours, and the range caters for every age from newborn upwards. Every item sold raises the same cash sum for Chalfest. I really hope by working together we can bring more joy to the fans of Chalfest.”
The festival holds a special place in James’s heart: “My family has been involved every year to 2024 thanks to the wonderful opportunities brought about by Ballyhoo Dance & Theatre School.”
And James can’t wait to see Chalford transformed once again: “I can still remember how I was struck by the magical transformation of our local park into a wonderland, full of happy people enjoying music, festivities, drinks, foods and a whole range of community activities.
“Chalfest became my world for two days, and then on the Sunday – silence, and empty again. An equally magical transformation. That feeling has stayed with me every year, as the event has grown, the music acts more amazing, and the outfits more daring, regardless of the weather.”
Returning on July 18th and 19th to Chalford Hill, this beloved community-run festival continues to grow stronger, offering a vibrant, family-friendly festival with something for everyone. the festival will feature more than 40 artists including main stage headliners Kula Shaker, Judge Jules, Fisherman’s Friends, Toby Lee, Dick and Dom, The Amy Winehouse Experience and more.
The clothing range can be accessed directly from xtopiaclothing.co.uk and via the merchandise link on Chalfest.co.uk.
For best chance of receiving clothing before Chalfest on July 18, we recommend placing your orders by Wednesday, July 9th.
You can explore the full xTOPIA Festival range here: https://xtopiaclothing.co.uk/collections/festival-season
