The first Social Festival kicks off in Maidstone this weekend, organised by the County Town’s own super DJ Nic Fanciulli. And the two-day music event is sure to offer something for all ages and tastes, as What’s On reports.

Maidstone’s picturesque Mote Park will be turned into a mini Glastonbury this weekend for the first Social Festival.

The fun starts on Saturday, September 28 with The Social, an electronic dance event for over 18s, before the Family Social on Sunday, September 28, a family-friendly boutique festival headlined by legendary soul and funk outfit the Earth, Wind & Fire Experience featuring Al McKay.

It is the brainchild of Maidstone-born Nic Fanciulli, a Grammy-nominated producer and renowned DJ, who has worked with names including Underworld and Kylie Minoague.

Nic, a married father-of-one who now lives in West Malling, has his own independent music label, Saved Records, which organises Saved Parties in the county featuring the latest international underground house and techno tracks.

He came up with the idea of the two-day festival as The Social allowed him to continue to push boundaries, while he could also share his love and passion for music with the local community in the Family Social.

He said: “I’m really excited to be creating a boutique festival in my home town. The Family Social is a great excuse to bring the music I love to Maidstone and share it with my friends and family.”

Nic will be among the DJs performing at The Social, which will also have a selection of classic fairground rides for festival-goers to enjoy during the day.

There will be also be stalls and a petting zoo on offer at the Family Social, which, in addition to the headline act, features performances from the Brand New Heavies, Shapeshifters Live and Sister Sledge.

Visit www.thesocialfestival.com

What’s On at The Social?

Acts performing include Andrea Oliva, Carl Craig, Dixon, Guti (Live), Guy Gerber, Hector, Loco Dice, Luciano, Mark Fanciulli, Nic Fanciulli, Robert Dietz, Russ Yallop, Seth Troxler and Tale of Us.

It runs from noon to 11pm on Saturday, September 28, and is open to over 18s only. Tickets from £40.

What’s On at the Family Social?
11am: Doors open

3.30pm: Brand New Heavies

4.30pm: Shapeshifters Live

6pm: Sister Sledge

7.30pm to 9pm: Earth, Wind & Fire Experience featuring Al McKay

Intervals between acts will feature performances by local bands, DJs and comedians.

The Family Social is taking place from 11am to 9pm on Sunday, September 29, and is open to all ages. Tickets are £25 for adults, £15 for under 16s, free for under fives and £60 for a family.