Headliners
The Po’ Boys
The Po’ Boys bring the sounds of the deep south to European shores. Fronted by award-winning accordionist, Lil Jim, who is tipped by his
A joyous celebration of Cajun, Creole and Louisiana roots music, dance and culture set in the heart of the beautiful North Shropshire Lakelands!
13th - 15th August 2021
We are proud to present a rich variety of music, dancing and cuisine at this year’s Big Weekend festival. Featuring the very best of our own homegrown UK Cajun & Zydeco bands– a truly hot and spicy Gumbo of dancing delight!
Covid Update
We are very confident that the new proposed date for the lifting of Covid restrictions on the 19th July still gives us plenty of time to safely go ahead with the Big Weekend in August.
We will of course follow whatever new government guidelines emerge on the 19th, but in addition we will be implementing our own festival advice and guidelines to keep our festival goers safe and reassured throughout the weekend.
2021 Lineup
Headliners
The Flatville Aces
The Flatville Aces play traditional Cajun music from south-west Louisiana, a potent mix of fiddle and accordion, French singing and infectious dance rhythms, and
Headliners
The Zydeco Diamonds
The Zydeco Diamonds have a musical pedigree and collective history in Zydeco music which spans over 100 yrs. Featuring top musicians, well respected as
Lineup
Lil’ Roosters
As the fiery heart of the Cajun Roosters, Chris Hall and Hazel Scott are no strangers to festival stages. But here, as a duo
Lineup
The 309s
The 309s bring their stunning version of high quality swing jive dance music to the Big Weekend. Twin lead vocals, swinging fiddle, soaring lap
Lineup
Diz Watson
Diz Watson, singer, piano player and entertainer, presents his exuberant mix of rhythm and blues and boogie woogie, often in the New Orleans style,
Lineup
Joe Le Taxi
“Hot Zydeco Dance Music from the Welsh Frontier!” Joe Le Taxi & The Zydeco Band play hardcore Louisiana Zydeco, authentic Creole blues, sleazy shuffles
Lineup
Hank JD Sleek
Hank JD Sleek is the alias of Matt Nunn, DJ, Artist, Texas Two Step & Swing dance teacher, and most importantly lover of Cajun,
Lineup
The Boat Band
The Boat Band have been sailing around for more than 30 years, delivering their distinctive brand of downhome Cajun to harbours around the Seven
Lineup
Rough Chowder
Fronted by husband and wife, Ian and Cheryl McIlroy, Rough Chowder have been homing their Cajun sounds and amassing a following through playing European
Lineup
The Hotfoot Specials
The Hotfoot Specials play traditional Cajun music from Southwest Louisiana. Our influences vary from the Balfa Brothers, Marc Savoy to Steve Riley and Cory
Latest News
Festival Info
The 2021 Big Weekend Digital Guide
There are only a few weeks left until we welcome you to the 8th North Shropshire Big Weekend and we’re getting VERY excited about it!
Big Weekend
July 19, 2021
Announcements
Big Weekend Covid safe implementations
Hi everyone, just checking in with you all with an update following the latest government announcement. We are very confident that the new proposed date
Big Weekend
June 20, 2021
Announcements
Big Weekend lineup news
Hi friends and supporters of the Big Weekend For some months now we have been deliberating and debating the feasibility and sensibility in bringing international
Big Weekend
May 1, 2021
And if that’s not enough, we can also offer you:
- Cajun & Zydeco dance workshops
- Festival campsite and late-night camp fire area including the festival tent which will be hosting jam sessions, workshops and informal gatherings.
- Jam sessions in the bar area lead by prominent UK Cajun & Zydeco musicians to keep the party rolling
We look forward to welcoming you to the hottest weekend of Louisiana roots music, dance and cuisine on the UK Summer calendar!
Location
Welshampton Parish Hall
Station Road A495
Ellesmere
SY12 0PY