321" data-end="629">FreeFest is the Students' Union’s annual open-air music and arts festival - a free, student-run celebration of creativity, community and summer vibes. Held by The Lake on Stag Hill campus, FreeFest is your chance to unwind and soak up the atmosphere with friends as the academic year winds down.

From local bands and student DJs to film screenings, food stalls, and glitter stations, FreeFest offers something for everyone. The annual festival was first established by University of Surrey students in 1979 and has been a wonderful free to attend community festival on campus ever since.

What is FreeFest?

FreeFest is all about celebrating student life through music, art, and shared experiences. With a chilled festival feel, the event features a diverse programme of entertainment - championing local talent, student performers, and independent creatives from across the community.

Whether you're on the grass enjoying a film by the water, discovering your new favourite band, or grabbing food with your housemates, FreeFest captures the spirit of summer on campus.

What to Expect

Live music – featuring a curated lineup of local bands, student acts, and DJs, showcasing the best of Guildford and Surrey’s music scene
Outdoor film screenings – bringing a cinematic atmosphere to The Lake, with a mix of classics and crowd-pleasers
Tasty food and drink – a variety of vendors serving everything from street food to sweet treats, plus non-alcoholic and alcoholic options
Festival extras – including glitter, face painting, games, and pop-up surprises
Chill-out zones – with picnic spaces and lakeside views for a laid-back vibe all day long

No tickets. No wristbands. Just great music, good company, and that classic FreeFest energy.

A Summer Send-Off

FreeFest is one of the last major events before summer, giving you the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of term with the whole Surrey community. Whether you’ve had a hectic year or a brilliant one, this is your chance to enjoy a well-earned break and create memories with friends before the campus quiets down.

Get Involved

FreeFest is built by students, for students. From performers and DJs to stallholders, volunteers, and film curators - there are plenty of ways to get involved and shape the experience.

Keep an eye on Students’ Union channels to find out how to apply to perform, showcase your work, or help bring the festival to life.

Currently there is no event planned for 2026.

FreeFest

Surrey’s Free, Feel-Good Music Festival