Glastonbury: Why is it so special?
Glastonbury Festival, held annually at Worthy Farm in Pilton, England, is more than just a music festival—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Since its inception in 1970, Glastonbury has grown into the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. What makes Glastonbury so special? It’s a combination of its rich history, diverse offerings, and the intangible sense of community and magic that permeates every corner of the festival.
Glastonbury has a storied history of hosting some of the most iconic artists of all time. From David Bowie’s legendary set in 2000 to Beyoncé’s groundbreaking 2011 performance, the festival has cemented its status as a stage for the greatest acts across genres. Its Pyramid Stage, a cultural symbol in its own right, has welcomed artists like Paul McCartney, Adele, and Stormzy, blending rock, pop, rap, and electronic music seamlessly.
This rich legacy attracts both artists and fans. For musicians, playing Glastonbury is a career milestone. For attendees, witnessing such performances is to be part of music history
While music is the centerpiece, Glastonbury’s appeal lies in its diversity. Beyond the headliners, the festival hosts smaller stages featuring niche genres, spoken word poetry, political debates, and experimental art. The Healing Fields offer yoga, meditation, and wellness workshops, while Shangri-La transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination filled with immersive installations and boundary-pushing performances. The Festival really comes alive after midnight.
Attendees often describe the festival as a microcosm of the world, where you can wander from a reggae dancehall to a classical orchestra performance in minutes. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, whether they’re there for chart-topping headliners or obscure underground act.
Perhaps what sets Glastonbury apart most is its atmosphere. There’s a palpable sense of unity and positivity, where strangers bond over muddy wellies and shared love for music. This communal spirit extends to the festival’s ethos: environmental sustainability and charity. Founder Michael Eavis has always emphasized giving back, with millions raised for organizations like Greenpeace and Oxfam.
The festival’s “anything-goes” attitude fosters creativity and spontaneity. It’s a place where people feel free to express themselves, whether through wild costumes or impromptu performances. Attendees often recall unforgettable moments of connection and serendipity that seem uniquely possible at Glastonbury.
Glastonbury isn’t just a festival; it’s a pilgrimage. For many, it’s about escaping the everyday and immersing themselves in a temporary utopia where art, music, and humanity converge. The rolling hills of Worthy Farm, the iconic stages, and the ceaseless surprises create a magic that keeps people coming back year after year. Me included.
In essence, Glastonbury is special because it’s more than a sum of its parts—it’s a feeling, an experience, and a testament to the power of creativity and community. It is truly one of the most magicals places on earth.
If only it wasn’t so hard to get tickets..
Glastonbury 2025 takes place 25th-30th June 2025
