Festivals

After the closure of Tacheles Arts Academy, ufa Fabrik remains an important ‘alternative arts’ space in Germany’s Berlin in Tempelhof. They describe it as a ‘cultural oasis’. It started life as a squat back in 1979 when the old Universal film studios were occupied. There are still a core of permanent residents and it is described as an eco-village. It hosts many diverse events and festivals.

This is the link to the official site.

Germany has an interesting, vibrant tradition of intentional communities and squats utilising/re-building old railway wagons and similar. Sometimes referred to as ‘mobile home squats’. Links also with 'party' and sound systems and activism.

Here are links to a couple of interesting pieces and pics. Also links to other articles from within Nicolette Stewart’s blog. And a great film about the residents at Freiburg.

Wikifestivals offers links to a mix of festivals, not necessarily very alternative, but certainly spread across the world.

Much more than a folk festival, Woodford Festival, north of Brisbane in Queensland, Australia - is an annual place of celebration and exploration of music, cultures – lots of discussions especially about environmental concerns, in addition to theatre, dance and the usual festival goodies. It takes place in Woodfordia, an ancient tribal space of the Jinibara people.