Lessons from Glastonbury: Should We Miss What Makes It Great?

Glastonbury Festival has been a cornerstone of the UK’s music and culture scene for decades, but as it has grown in size and popularity, questions about its future have emerged. Some are beginning to ask if the festival has become too large and expensive for the average music lover to enjoy. In this article, we explore the changes and improvements needed at Glastonbury to maintain its essence while addressing the drawbacks.

The Evolution of Glastonbury

Glastonbury has grown significantly since its humble beginnings in 1970. What started as a weekend of music and hippie spirit has evolved into a five-day festival that attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year. While this growth may seem impressive, it has also brought about challenges.

Size vs. Experience

The festival's sheer size and expense have become significant concerns. Beyond the high ticket prices, festival-goers are often slammed with exorbitant costs for food, drinks, and merchandise. Attendees find themselves spending more on these necessities than on the actual performance, which detracts from the overall experience and value.

The Big Chill: A Comparison

Compared to Glastonbury, events like The Big Chill in Larmer Tree Gardens offer a more intimate and manageable setting. This festival, once celebrated for its beautiful grounds and diverse lineup, attracts only a fraction of the crowd that Glastonbury does, yet it still manages to provide an incredible experience. The setting is picturesque with peacocks roaming freely, and the atmosphere is peaceful and intimate. The Big Chill manages to balance cost and quality while still delivering a fantastic musical experience.

Other Alternatives

There are many other smaller festivals across the country that, while lacking some of the star power of Glastonbury, offer a more affordable and enjoyable alternative. Events like OnlyprimaryKey, Melt!, and Boomtown Fair are smaller in scale and offer a more authentic festival experience. These festivals are a great option for music lovers who want to enjoy live music without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Does Glastonbury Festival need a makeover? It certainly could benefit from some adjustments to make it more accessible and enjoyable for music lovers. Should we miss the festival if it continues to grow at its current pace? It ultimately depends on whether the festival can find a way to balance its popularity with the need for a truly immersive and cost-effective experience. If not, smaller, more intimate festivals like The Big Chill and the many others around the country may become a better option for those who cherish the festival spirit without the overwhelming expenses.