First Timers Fest 2025: a one day festival where every band is playing their first show! Everybody welcome.
What is First Timers Fest?
First Timers fest is an annual series of workshops that ends in a festival where every band plays its first show! Our aim is to diversify and demystify DIY music. People of any musical experience and of any identity can attend our workshops, though they are largely aimed at beginners. To play the fest itself your band needs to meet two or more of the following criteria: One or more people have never been in a band before One or more people have never performed that role in a band before (e.g if a drummer is having a go at vocals) One or more people belongs to a marginalised group, for example, they are a woman, a person of colour, LGBTQIA+, disabled, working class, neurodivergent.
Covid Policy
We cannot provide any assurance that this event is a covid-free zone. Mask wearing is encouraged when appropriate, and we encourage attendees to take a lateral flow test within the 48 hours before the gig. If you’re feeling sick, please stay home – email us if this is the case up to 24 hours before the event and we will refund you. Please bring a mask, however there will be N95 Masks and hand sanitiser available at the venue if needed. The venue is much larger than our previous venues so that we can ensure we do not reach capacity allowing for more space and comfort. The venue has an air conditioning system to encourage better air flow.
What is the venue's accessibility like?
Nearest stations: Hackney Central (step-free access available)
Nearest bus routes: 30, 38, 55, 106, 253, 254, 277, 394
please find our accessibility guide here,: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-F2XyDr3MmOL4q-S6VRvx_po85dTCRvFnG7YvPaAEMo/edit?usp=sharing
The ground-floor bar is step-free. The upstairs venue space is accessible via two flights of stairs; an accessible lift is available. Doors can be heavy, but staff can assist.
You can watch a walk around video of the Oslo here: https://www.oslohackney.com/venue-hire/
An accessible gender-neutral toilet with grab bars is available on the ground floor (no RADAR required). Gendered toilets are located upstairs.
It is a large venue however capacity is limited for comfort and space. Seating is available on request.
No flashing or strobe lights will be used.
A designated quiet space will be available for people who need it. Please find a volunteer if you need to access the quiet space.
Earplugs will be available at the venue.
If you have an accessibility requirement (including seating and lift access) please contact access@altickets.com ahead of the gig. In this email, please include proof of purchase.
PA tickets available for free on request; email us at dsflfirsttimers@gmail.com if you need a PA ticket to ensure you are supported and well throughout the day (no evidence required).
No one turned away for lack of funds: If you need a concession or free ticket just email us and let us know what you can afford at dsflfirsttimers@gmail.com