Get ready for the South’s greenest festival, as Out of the Ordinary (OOTO) makes a welcome return to the festival scene. Held over the autumn equinox, from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th September 2011, Out of the Ordinary is a three-day celebration of the elements, held at Knockhatch Adventure Park in the stunning Sussex countryside between Brighton and Eastbourne. This year’s festival takes place in a tree lined, organically farmed pasture backing on to enchanting woodland.

Families, club kids and the eco aware can expect to be treated like extended family at the intimate festival. A small, non-corporate event, OOTO prides itself on ethics, community and creativity. Refreshingly, you won’t find sponsored tents or branded arenas here. Boasting solar powered stages and facilities run on a combination of wind and solar power, it promises to bring festival goers top quality live music, DJs, art installations, performance, workshops, shopping, films, poetry, cabaret, delicious organic food and much more. 

Underground dance band System 7 headline on Saturday night: previously collaborating with dance heavyweights such as Laurent Garnier and Alex Paterson (The Orb), this is one performance not to be missed. But it’s not all about dance music – Fujiya and Miyagi will be on hand to appeal to the artistic, kitsch crowd and Solo Banton will deliver some hard-hitting roots reggae.

There will be educational activities for the kids, and silly games to help adults forget they ever grew up. You’ll also be wowed by feats of the incredible in the Circus Arena, hosted by Brighton’s own Poi Passion and the Shambolic Sideshow. Breathtaking circus performances range from tightrope walking and trapeze to spectacular fire shows – with opportunities to learn the skills yourself. Conscious Cabaret will also be on hand, dispensing its unique blend of avant-garde entertainment.

The more health conscious amongst you may prefer to head to the central Peace Circle, where you are invited to join in yoga sessions in the morning and ecstatic celebrations at sunset. The Healing Area is a place to relax and try out a range of therapies: whether you want to learn more about how treatments work or experience a purifying sweat lodge, this area aims to promote inner peace for body, mind and spirit.

Festival Director Jim Mitchell says, ‘Out of the Ordinary is now in its fifth year, and we are gradually evolving into the festival of choice for people who are tired of corporate festivals with no soul. It’s the last festival of the season, which always creates a unique atmosphere.

‘We are proud of our eco credentials and artistic angle, and urge anyone who’s never been to book a ticket, come with an open mind and get involved with everything the festival has to offer. We have created our very own OOTOpia here at Knockhatch –  you certainly won’t be disappointed.’ 

Out of the Ordinary Festival Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th September 2011

Knockhatch Adventure Park, Hailsham Bypass, Hailsham, BN27 3GD

Price: Early bird three-day adult pass (inc. camping): £55 / rising to £66 / £77 on the door; children: £20; Campervan: £20