ONE of the country’s last free music festivals gets under way in Charlbury tomorrow.

Riverside Festival could get about 9,000 visitors over two days and organisers are hoping the rain holds off as much as possible.

Festival director Andy Pickard, pictured getting ready for music fans and the bands, launched the event 24 years ago.

Oxford Mail:

It now features music on two stages and there are also acoustic sessions.

New bands such as Kanadia will join The Knights of Mentis, The Deadbeat Apostles, Flights of Helios and Outer Blue on the main stage today.

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On the main stage tomorrow music fans can watch Brickwork Lizards, 2 Tone Skas and Mighty Redox.

Oxford Mail:

Indie rock band The Other Dramas are one of acts playing on the second stage on Sunday.

This year’s theme follows the band Pixies, with groups singing covers of the indie-rock legends.

READ MORE: Riverside Festival brings music lovers to Charlbury

Mr Pickard said: “It’s nice to have something free especially in this day and age.

Oxford Mail:

“We may not have big names but the music is every bit as good.

“Riverside Festival is like a family, as a lot of people who move away will come back like a sort of social gathering.

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“People just enjoy it and always come back. People go to other festivals but say they are not as homely and friendly as ours.

Oxford Mail:

“Riverside is very much a community-run family event and it’s great for kids. As well as having a dedicated Kids’ Zone where youngsters can try their hand at different activities, they can find out more about traditional crafts and meet local artists in the Green Field site.”

Music fans are asked to make donations.