SOKA Fest

Soka Fest brings together the Reading and Berkshire music communities, to fundraise in memory of Sophie Sheehan.

In 2025, Reading lost a much-loved member of its music community, Sophie Sheehan. Sophie brought energy, passion, and personality to the local scene. She regularly performed live, helped organise Reading Pride, and strongly supported Reading’s LGBTQ+ community. In recognition of this, she was awarded the Berkshire Artistree Award in 2024. 

This special event honours Sophie’s life and celebrates the community she helped build.

TICKETS

SOKA ALL ACCESS WRISTBAND EARLY BIRD
Includes:
• Entry to all venues

SOKA PASSPORT
Includes:
• Access to donation-entry venues
• Collect stamps across participating venues
• Complete the passport challenge for prizes

Road to Soka events

Several events will be held in the run up to the main event, click each link to find out who’s playing where:

The Butler

One of Reading’s most active grassroots music venues. It sits at the heart of the local scene and hosts the well-known Butler Open Mic Night.

The Oakford Social Club

Located near Reading Station, this long-standing venue has supported live music for more than 25 years, continuing to give artists a platform to perform and grow.

The Boundary

One of Reading’s most vibrant and quirky pubs, located in the town centre around the corner from the Purple Turtle.

Milk

A cosy bar just off Friar Street, Milk is known for its modern atmosphere, quality cocktails, and welcoming setting.

Market House

A lively social venue that hosts open mic nights, live sport, and community events throughout the year.

Local artists

Local artists from across Berkshire will come together to perform and raise funds for the cause.

Country powerhouse Nicole Allan has spearheaded the event, with the support of local musicians from all over Berkshire. Collectively they are aiming to raise over £10,000 in memory of Sophie.