Three is definitely the magic number for St Albans’ very own music festival, as Meraki prepares for its third spectacular summer next month.

Herts Advertiser: Young fans at Meraki Festival 2018.Young fans at Meraki Festival 2018. (Image: Archant)

Returning to its trusted home at Herts Showground, the three-day event has moved to a slightly later date around the late summer bank holiday from August 23-25.

With hopes for a sunshine-soaked weekend, this year's family-focused festival promises something for everyone, with all activities completely free.

The music line-up features a Friday night flashback to the 'eighties with performances from Paul Young, Carol Decker (T'Pau), Katrina (of The Waves fame) and Garry Christian, while country sensations The Shires headline on the Sunday.

Meanwhile, dance music pioneer Judge Jules will be joined by a 10-piece band to present the iconic tracks which have defined his career in a style unique to this live show.

Herts Advertiser: Meraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDSMeraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDS (Image: ©2018 Kevin Richards - all rights reserved)

This year's Meraki sees a new focus on comedy, with laugh-out-loud performances from the likes of Sean Lock (8 Out of 10 Cats), Lou Conran (I Love Lou-C), Hal Cruttenden (Have I Got News For You) and Jared Christmas (Mock The Week).

Away from the music and comedy, there are loads of activities to keep festival-goers of all ages amused throughout the weekend, including the legendary Flying Seagulls with their mix of live performances, comedy and kids theatre.

Powder Paint Parties will be taking place every day from 7pm, and there are free workshops covering everything from slime and archery to Lego and circus skills.

And for the ultimate party night, don't miss five hours of Carwash on Sunday night, offering a fresh mix of disco and 1980s and 1990s pop anthems surrounded by fire performers, stilt walkers and more.

Herts Advertiser: Delightful hands give neck and shoulder massage at Meraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDSDelightful hands give neck and shoulder massage at Meraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDS (Image: ©2018 Kevin Richards - all rights reserved)

Meraki founder Kerry Marks explained her ethos behind the festival: "We are not a corporate company, I am a local business with a passion for happiness, so I do Meraki with the incredible support of many friends and family. I can't wait to see what year three and Meraki 2019 will bring.

"Thank you everyone for all the ongoing amazing support you give to me, without which this festival just wouldn't be possible."

Herts Advertiser: Go faster! Meraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDSGo faster! Meraki Festival 2018. Picture: KEVIN RICHARDS (Image: ©2018 Kevin Richards - all rights reserved)