ABSTRACT
Feminism in the context of festivals from a Western perspective has been examined across disciplines but rarely synthesised within the festival studies literature. This chapter addresses the role of feminist politics specifically in the production of festivals within the arts sector. Whilst scholars are dependent on the wave narrative to articulate the evolution of feminist thought, they are consciously critical of its usage, citing that the waves are generationally divisive. The chapter briefly offers an overview of the wave narrative in order to place subsequent discussions in context. It offers a comprehensive social and political history of feminist movements to understand the contemporary relevance in order to analyse feminist festivals. The chapter presents illustrative critical case studies of UK festivals which place feminist politics to the fore. It examines the festivals that are helping women become more confident in engaging in both feminist politics and general politics by providing them with an accessible introduction to politics.
