Camden Crawl

Following its expansion to a two day event last year, the 7th annual Crawl festival relocates from midweek to weekend and is to be renamed the Red Stripe Camden Crawl in 2008. As well as hosting its trademark melting pot of hotly tipped and breaking new artists alongside special guests and seminal greats each evening, this year's festival will grow to include an extensive daytime arts programme including acoustic sessions, live showcases, unsigned band competitions, pop quizzes, fan forums, comedy, performance art, film screenings, exhibitions and more. Furthermore, the planned addition of an outdoor stage in central Camden Town will add a new carnival-style dimension to this already electrifying event.

The 2008 Crawl programme kicks off from noon on Friday 18th April along the mile-long stretch from Chalk Farm to Mornington Crescent. This strip of pavement will play host to 130 artists performing across the event's 25 official venues over 2 days and evenings and into the wee hours of the mornings. One low cost ticket, available as single or two day passes, will allow up to 15,000 music fans unlimited access to all Crawl venues, after show parties and daytime activities. The price also includes a free music programme featuring a core selection of the artists appearing at the event.

Not unlike last year, 40 bands will appear on the bill both days, alternating venues on Friday and Saturday to allow die-hard Crawlers two opportunities to see their most coveted artists. All other artists will perform on one day or evening of the event only. Upon arrival, each 'Crawler' will be presented with an all-access wristband and music programme featuring a guide map and timetable for each day's proceedings. In keeping with the exploratory spirit and musical democracy of past Crawls, the full line-ups and stage times remain a closely guarded secret until each night. Surprise guests may appear at any time or any venue, so festival-goers are advised to arrive early.