CarFest, the family fundraising festival founded by broadcaster Chris Evans, is preparing for a major change after more than a decade at Laverstoke Park Farm. Evans has confirmed that from 2026 the popular event will relocate to Silverstone Circuit, one of the UK’s most iconic motorsport venues.
Since its launch in 2012, CarFest has become a highlight of the British summer, combining fast cars, live music, food, family entertainment, and fundraising for children’s charities. The festival has been hosted at Laverstoke Park Farm, near Overton, for the past 14 years, drawing thousands of visitors annually to Hampshire.
Explaining the move, Evans said the festival’s core values will remain unchanged, but Silverstone will allow CarFest to expand. He commented:
“This move opens up possibilities we’ve never had before – more space, more cars, more ways to surprise and delight our audience, and most importantly an opportunity to raise even more money for UK children’s charities. The heart of CarFest will always be the same, with charitable fundraising and entertainment at the centre.”
Silverstone’s chief executive, Stuart Pringle, welcomed the announcement, saying:
“CarFest has become a firm favourite in the festival calendar, and we’re excited to be its new home. Silverstone is now a year-round destination for world-class events, and with CarFest’s unique mix of music, motors and family fun, we believe the festival can grow even further here while continuing its fantastic fundraising work.”
While Hampshire will no longer be the home of CarFest, its legacy will remain. Clare Scheckter, owner of Laverstoke Park Farm, expressed pride in the role the venue has played since the festival’s beginnings. She said:
“It has been a privilege to host CarFest for the past 14 years, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. Whilst it is sad to see the final CarFest at Laverstoke, I believe Silverstone offers an exciting opportunity for the festival to reach new heights. I look forward to continuing to work with Chris and the team on its charitable mission.”
CarFest 2026 will take place at Silverstone from 27th–30th August. Meanwhile, this weekend (22nd–24th August) will be the last chance for festival-goers to experience CarFest at its original Hampshire home. Evans encouraged fans to join the farewell, adding:
“Anyone who wants to be part of our final party at Laverstoke should grab the last tickets while they’re still available.”
