The Glastonbury Festival is a five-day music and performing arts festival held annually in Pilton, Somerset, England. It is one of the largest and most popular music festivals in the world, with over 200,000 attendees each year. The festival features a diverse range of musical acts from various genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, and world music.
In addition to music, the festival also features other forms of entertainment such as comedy, theatre, circus, and dance performances. The festival was first held in 1970 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, with tickets typically selling out within minutes of going on sale.
History of Glastonbury Festival
The Glastonbury Festival has a long and storied history that dates back to 1970, when the first festival was held on a farm near Pilton, Somerset. The festival was the brainchild of Michael Eavis, a local farmer who had attended the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive Music the previous year.
The inaugural Glastonbury Festival was a relatively small affair, with around 1,500 attendees and a lineup that included Marc Bolan, Al Stewart, and Keith Christmas. The festival was held on the summer solstice weekend and was intended as a celebration of music, arts, and culture.
Over the years, the festival grew in size and popularity, attracting a diverse range of artists and performers from around the world. In the 1980s and 1990s, the festival became associated with the counterculture and the alternative music scene, and it became a platform for political and social activism.
In 1990, the festival was marred by violence and clashes with the police, leading to a one-year hiatus in 1991. The festival returned in 1992 with a renewed focus on environmentalism and sustainability, and it has since become a leader in the green festival movement.
Today, the Glastonbury Festival is one of the largest and most popular music festivals in the world, with over 200,000 attendees and a lineup that includes some of the biggest names in music. Despite its commercial success, the festival has remained true to its roots and continues to promote a spirit of social and environmental responsibility.
What to Expect from the Glastonbury Festival
The lineup for the Glastonbury Festival changes from year to year, and it is typically announced a few months before the event. The festival features a wide range of musical genres, as well as other forms of entertainment such as comedy, theatre, circus, and dance performances. In addition to the main stages, the festival also includes smaller stages and areas that showcase emerging artists and alternative genres.
In addition to music and performance, the festival also includes a wide range of food and beverage vendors, as well as art installations, workshops, and other activities. The festival is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, and it features a variety of green initiatives and educational programs.
Stages and Line Ups:
Here are some of the main areas and stages at the Glastonbury Festival:
Pyramid Stage: The main stage of the festival, which features some of the biggest names in music.
Other Stage: This secondary stage hosts a mix of established and up-and-coming artists.
West Holts Stage: Featuring a diverse range of music, including world music, reggae, and electronic genres.
The Park Stage: This hilltop stage features indie and alternative acts, as well as comedy and spoken word performances.
John Peel Stage: Showcases emerging artists and alternative genres, named after the late British radio DJ.
Acoustic Stage: Features acoustic performances, folk music, and singer-songwriters.
Silver Hayes: An area dedicated to electronic and dance music, featuring several stages and dance tents.
Shangri-La: A late-night area featuring immersive art installations, performance art, and electronic music.
Glastonbury Festival Lineup 2023
Glastonbury 2023 will take place at its natural home in Worthy Farm, Pilton, Somerset, UK – over a 5-day period – from Wednesday the 21st to Sunday the 25th of June.
The Festival will be headlined by Arctic Monkeys on Friday (23rd June), Guns N’ Roses on Saturday (24th June), and Elton John on Sunday (25th June) – with Yusuf / Cat Stevens performing in the Sunday Teatime ‘Legends Slot’.
The bumper festival is returning in 2023, bringing with it the usual ticket scramble, huge crowds… and probably a bit of mud.
Arctic Monkeys, Guns N’ Roses and Elton John have all been announced as Pyramid Stage headliners along with Lana Del Rey. Although the full Glastonbury Festival line-up doesn’t tend to get released until the end of May, the first Glastonbury 2023 line-up poster (seen below) was announced on Friday morning, the 3rd of March 2023.
What to Pack for Glastonbury Festival
If you’re planning to attend the Glastonbury Festival, it’s important to pack appropriately to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some things you might want to consider packing:
1. Tent: Unless you plan to stay in a hotel or other accommodation off-site, you’ll need a tent to camp at the festival. Make sure to choose a tent that’s durable, waterproof, and large enough to accommodate you and your gear.
2. Sleeping bag and camping mat: To stay comfortable and warm at night, bring a sleeping bag and camping mat.
3. Clothing: The weather at Glastonbury can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack clothing that can be layered. Bring a raincoat or poncho, warm clothes for the evening, and comfortable shoes that can withstand mud and dirt.
4. Toiletries: Bring basic toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and toilet paper. There are shower facilities on-site, but they can get crowded, so you might want to bring wet wipes and hand sanitiser as well.
5. Sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from the sun and bugs by packing sunscreen and insect repellent.
6. Water bottle: The festival has several water refill stations, so bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
7. Cash: Many vendors at the festival only accept cash, so bring enough to cover your expenses.
8. Portable charger: To keep your phone charged and connected, bring a portable charger.
9. Festival essentials: Don’t forget your festival essentials such as sunglasses, a hat, and earplugs.
Remember that you’ll need to carry all of your gear with you, so try to pack light and only bring what you really need.
Things 10 things to do at Glastonbury Festival
Here are 10 things you might want to do if you’re attending the Glastonbury Festival:
Catch a headline act
The Glastonbury Festival is known for its impressive lineup of headline acts, so make sure to catch at least one of them on the Pyramid Stage.
Explore the smaller stages
The festival also features several smaller stages that showcase emerging artists and local acts. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the main stage and discover some new music.
Take in the art and installations
The festival is a hub of creativity and features a variety of art installations and sculptures. Take some time to explore the art and take in the creativity around you.
Get involved in a workshop
The festival also features workshops and interactive experiences that allow attendees to get creative and learn new skills. Check out the program and see if there’s a workshop that interests you.
Eat and drink
The Glastonbury Festival offers a wide range of food and drink options, so make sure to sample some of the delicious offerings. From traditional British fare to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
Get involved in the community
A festival is a community-driven event, and it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make connections. Attend a meet-up or join a group to connect with like-minded individuals.
Take a dip in the hot tubs
The festival features several hot tubs that offer a relaxing break from the crowds and noise. Make a reservation and treat yourself to a soak.
Dance the night away
The festival features several dance and club areas that stay open until the early morning hours. Put on your dancing shoes and party until dawn.
Embrace the mud
The Glastonbury Festival is notorious for its mud, but it’s also part of the experience. Embrace the mud and join in the fun by sliding around and making mud sculptures.
Have Fun!
How Much are Tickets to Glastonbury Festival?
Tickets for the Glastonbury Festival are highly sought after and typically sell out quickly after they go on sale. Here are the steps to buy a ticket for the festival:
Registration: Before you can buy a ticket, you need to register on the Glastonbury Festival website. This involves providing your personal details and a passport-style photo.
Ticket Sale: Tickets for Glastonbury 2023 cost £335, plus a £5 booking fee (and coach fees, if applicable). It’s an increase of £55 from the 2022 event, which cost £280 plus the booking fee.
Confirmation: After your purchase is complete, you will receive a confirmation email with details of your ticket and instructions for collecting it at the festival.
It’s worth noting that the Glastonbury Festival operates a resale system for any tickets that are returned or cancelled, and this takes place a few months after the initial sale. Keep an eye on the festival’s website and social media channels for information on the resale dates.
Sneaking into Glastonbury Festival: The Days of Yore
There have been instances in the past where people have dug holes or used other methods to sneak into the Glastonbury Festival without paying for a ticket. Many people in the 80s and 90s even spoke about sneaking into the festival using trucks that would deliver toiletries!
Those who experienced sneaking into the festival have stated that the security was much less than today and the gates were like “mickey mouse”, very easy to sneak under or over! It is important to add that today the security is high and the fences are much more difficult to sneak under making Glastonbury an impenetrable fortress of fun!
Travel and Parking
Getting to and from the Glastonbury Festival can be a bit of a challenge, as the festival site is located in a rural area with limited public transportation options. Here are some options for travelling to and from the festival:
Driving: If you’re driving to the festival, be prepared for heavy traffic and delays, especially on the first day of the festival. Festival organizers have designated parking areas for those who are driving, but it’s important to purchase a parking pass in advance.
Public transportation: Festival-goers can take a train or bus to the nearest town or city, and then take a shuttle bus or taxi to the festival site. However, be aware that public transportation options can be limited and often sell out quickly.
Bicycle: For those who live nearby, cycling to the festival can be a convenient and environmentally friendly option. The festival offers bike parking areas, but be sure to bring a lock for your bike.
Once you arrive at the festival site, there are designated parking areas for those who are driving. However, it’s important to purchase a parking pass in advance, as parking spaces are limited and can sell out quickly. There are also shuttle buses and taxis available to transport festival-goers to and from nearby towns and cities.
Eating and Drinking at Glastonbury Festival
The Glastonbury Festival offers a wide range of food and drink options to cater to all tastes and dietary requirements. There are numerous food vendors located throughout the festival site, serving everything from traditional festival fares like burgers and fries to options like falafel wraps and sushi.
There are also plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, and many vendors use locally sourced and organic ingredients. Prices can vary, but generally, food and drink prices are reasonable and comparable to those at other festivals and events.
In addition to the food vendors, there are also bars and beer tents located throughout the festival site, serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Prices for drinks can be high, so it’s worth considering bringing your own water bottle to refill at one of the many water stations located throughout the festival site.
It’s worth noting that the festival operates a “leave no trace” policy, which means that all festival-goers are encouraged to take their rubbish with them and dispose of it in the appropriate bins provided.
Camping Options and Advice for Glastonbury Festival
Camping is the most popular accommodation option for festival-goers at the Glastonbury Festival, and there are a variety of camping options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some camping options and advice:
1. General camping: This is the most basic and affordable camping option, and is included in the price of your festival ticket. You will need to bring your own tent and camping equipment and find a suitable spot in one of the designated camping areas. Be prepared for crowds and noise, as this is the most popular camping option.
2. Quiet camping: If you’re looking for a more peaceful camping experience, you can opt for the quiet camping area. This is located further away from the main festival site and is designed to be a quieter and more family-friendly camping option.
3. Campervan and caravan camping: If you have a campervan or caravan, you can purchase a campervan or caravan ticket, which allows you to park in a designated campervan or caravan area. Note that space is limited, and you will need to purchase your ticket in advance.
4. Boutique camping: If you’re looking for a more luxurious camping experience, there are a variety of boutique camping options available, including pre-pitched tents, yurts, and tipis. These options come with a higher price tag but offer more comfortable and spacious accommodation.
Camping Top Tips
When it comes to camping at the festival, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some tips:
- Bring a good quality tent that is suitable for the weather conditions.
- Don’t forget warm clothes and bedding, as temperatures can drop at night.
- Invest in a good-quality sleeping mat or air mattress for added comfort.
- Bring a camping chair or other seating option for lounging.
- Consider earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to help you sleep through any noise.
- Pack a torch or headlamp for navigating the festival site at night.
- Be considerate of your fellow campers and follow the festival’s “leave no trace” policy by properly disposing of your rubbish.
How to Wash at Glastonbury:
Washing facilities at the Glastonbury Festival can be limited due to the large number of festival-goers, but there are still options available for those looking to freshen up during their stay. Here are some tips:
1. Showers: The festival has shower facilities available, but they can be busy and have long queues. Shower tokens can be purchased on-site or in advance, and are usually valid for one shower.
2. Bring wet wipes: Wet wipes are a convenient way to freshen up when shower facilities are not available. Pack a large supply and use them to clean your face, hands, and body.
3. Portable showers: If you’re camping with a campervan or caravan, you may have your own shower facilities. Portable shower units are also available for purchase, which can be set up in your campsite and filled with water.
4. Swim in the river: The River Glastonbury runs through the festival site, and some festival-goers choose to take a dip to cool off or freshen up. While this can be a refreshing option, it’s important to note that the water may not be clean and can be hazardous, so it’s not recommended.
5. Bring a dry shampoo: Dry shampoo is a quick and easy way to refresh your hair without having to wash it. Pack a can of dry shampoo to use throughout the festival.
Remember to bring your own toiletries, including soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste. It’s also a good idea to pack a towel or two and consider bringing a bag to carry your dirty clothes to the laundry facilities.
Who promotes the Glastonbury Festival?
The Glastonbury Festival is organized and promoted by the Glastonbury Festivals organization, which is headed by founder Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily Eavis. The organization is responsible for all aspects of the festival, including programming, logistics, and outreach efforts.
In addition to the core organizing team, the Glastonbury Festival relies on a large number of volunteers and contractors to help run the event. These include security personnel, medical staff, sound engineers, and a variety of other professionals who help ensure that the festival runs smoothly and safely.
The Glastonbury Festival is also supported by a wide range of sponsors and partners, including media companies, food and beverage vendors, and other organizations that help provide resources and support for the festival. Despite its commercial success, the festival has remained committed to its roots as a community-driven event that prioritizes social and environmental responsibility over profit.
Top 10 Performances of all time at Glastonbury Festival
The Glastonbury Festival has featured a wide range of musical acts from various genres and eras. Over the years, the festival has hosted some of the biggest names in music, as well as emerging artists and local acts.
Some of the most notable performers to have played at Glastonbury include:
David Bowie
David Bowie made a legendary appearance at the 2013 Glastonbury Festival, performing a set that included some of his most beloved hits. He opened with the classic “Ziggy Stardust,” and went on to perform “Heroes,” “Rebel Rebel,” and “Let’s Dance.” His set was met with rapturous applause and a standing ovation from the crowd, who sang along to every word. The performance was seen as a triumphant return to the stage for Bowie, who had been absent from live performances for a decade.
The Rolling Stones
Another classic was the Rolling Stones’ 2013 headline set that was absolutely historic, marking the first time the band had ever played Glastonbury. They played hits from throughout their career, including “Satisfaction” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”
Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s 2011 performance was a masterclass in the pop spectacle. She played hits from throughout her career, including “Crazy in Love” and “Single Ladies.” It has been named one of the best performances in the last decade.
Radiohead
Radiohead has played Glastonbury three times and each performance has been memorable in its own way. In 1997, the band played a set that is widely considered one of the best in the festival’s history.
Paul McCartney
In 2013, Paul McCartney made history by becoming the first Beatle to play at the Glastonbury Festival. The performance was met with wild enthusiasm from the crowd, as McCartney played some of the Beatles’ most iconic hits, as well as some of his solo material. His performance was seen as a major milestone for the festival, and for McCartney himself, who said that he was honored to be able to perform at the festival.
Adele
It wouldn’t be an iconic list without the amazing performance by Adele in 2016 which was a masterclass in vocal control and emotional intensity. She played hits from throughout her career, including “Hello” and “Someone Like You.”
Coldplay
Coldplay’s performance at Glastonbury 2013 was one of the most memorable in the festival’s history. The band played a mix of old and new songs, including hits like ‘Viva La Vida’ and ‘Fix You’, and even brought out a special guest for a surprise performance of ‘Paradise’.
Jay-Z
In 2013, the legendary rapper Jay-Z made history when he became the first hip-hop artist to ever headline Glastonbury Festival. His performance was met with a mixed reception from the audience, with some fans ecstatic to see him and others feeling that his performance was out of place at the festival. Regardless, his performance was a landmark moment for hip-hop and a testament to Jay-Z’s influence and legacy.
The Smiths
The Smiths, one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s, made a triumphant return to the stage at Glastonbury 2013. The band, which had not performed together since their split in 1987, reunited for a one-off performance that left the crowd in awe. Lead singer Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce delivered a powerful set of classic Smiths songs such as “This Charming Man,” “How Soon Is Now?” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out.”
Oasis
Oasis played Glastonbury twice, and both performances were legendary. In 1995, they played an afternoon slot that catapulted them to superstardom, while their 2004 performance saw them headline the festival.
The Glastonbury Festival is one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world and has featured many memorable performances over the years. One of the most prominent performances in the history of the festival was Bowie’s 2000 performance is often cited as one of the greatest Glastonbury performances of all time. He played a mix of classic hits and new material, including a cover of “Wild Is the Wind.”
These are just a few of the many legendary performances that have taken place at Glastonbury over the years. The festival has a rich history of hosting some of the biggest names in music, and each year brings new and exciting acts to the stage.
Closing Thoughts on Glastonbury Festival
The Glastonbury Festival is a world-renowned music and arts festival that has been held annually in the UK since 1970. The festival features an impressive line-up of headline acts as well as emerging artists, art installations, workshops, and other interactive experiences.
To make the most of your Glastonbury experience, it’s important to pack appropriately, stay hydrated, and be open to new experiences. Whether you’re a music lover, an art enthusiast, or simply looking to connect with a like-minded community, the Glastonbury Festival offers something for everyone.
Have fun!
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