Camp Bestival Fancy Dress Day
2026 Theme: At The Seaside • Fancy dress is traditionally on the Saturday
Camp Bestival fancy dress day 2026 is the most colourful part of the weekend, with thousands of families joining in on the Saturday. Whether you go all-out or keep it simple, it’s one of those moments that makes the festival feel properly special.
What happens on the Saturday?
Fancy dress is traditionally on the Saturday. Expect group outfits, loads of photo moments, and a real “everyone joins in” feel across the site. The best costumes are usually the ones people can actually dance and walk around in all day.
2026 theme: At The Seaside
The 2026 theme is At The Seaside — think classic British beach vibes: beach huts, deckchairs, ice creams, seagulls, and bucket-and-spade energy. For official updates, see the organiser announcement here: campbestival.net.
Costume ideas that are easy (and look great)
These are simple, comfy ideas that still look brilliant in photos:
- Seaside holiday makers: stripy tops, shorts, sun hats, sunglasses, beach towels
- Lifeguards & swimmers: red outfit + whistle, or goggles + inflatable ring
- Cheeky seagulls: grey/white outfit + beak hat (kids love this one)
- Fish & chips crew: one “fish”, one “chips”, one “salt”, one “vinegar”
- Mermaids & pirates: instant seaside storybook vibes
- “Knotted hanky” dads: classic British seaside look (simple and funny)
- Beach huts: cardboard front + shoulder straps (surprisingly easy)
Easy family outfit combos
- Family beach day: towels + sunglasses + inflatable rings + face paint “sunburn”
- Seaside food stall: fish, chips, ketchup, salt (plus a paper “menu” sign)
- Under the sea: mermaid + pirate + seagull + crab (cardboard claws)
- Deckchair squad: matching stripy tops + little flags
Quick checklist (comfort first)
- Comfort first: trainers/wellies that can handle grass and dust
- Layers: mornings and evenings can be cooler than you expect
- Keep props light: if you carry it all day, it needs to be easy
- Backup bits: safety pins, tape, wipes, spare accessory
Past themes (for re-using costumes)
| Year | Theme |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Sets Sail! |
| 2019 | Heroes Vs. Superheroes |
| 2021 | Goes to the Movies |
| 2022 | Desert Island Disco |
| 2025 | The Dream Factory |
| 2026 | At The Seaside |
FAQ
Is it just for kids?
No — everyone joins in. You’ll see toddlers, teens and parents all going for it, especially in group costumes.
Do we need to spend loads?
Not at all. A stripy top, hat, sunglasses and one fun prop can look brilliant (and you’ll be comfortable all day).
Which day is it?
It’s traditionally the Saturday at Camp Bestival.