Glastonbury Reduces Capacity After Crowding Concerns
Festival Organizers Prioritize Safety with Fewer Tickets and Site Changes
The world-renowned Glastonbury Festival is taking steps to improve attendee experience and safety following reports of severe overcrowding at smaller stages last year. Organizers have reduced ticket sales and are implementing changes to site layout, aiming for a more comfortable festival environment.
Capacity Reduced to Ease Congestion
This year, previous issues with overcrowding prompted festival organizer Emily Eavis to sell “a few thousand less tickets” for the upcoming event. Eavis explained, “It’ll be interesting just to see how that affects the dynamics on site … to see if a few thousand less can make an impact on some of the busier times.”
The festival typically welcomes 210,000 people.
According to a 2024 report by the UK Festival Awards, 83% of festival-goers prioritize safety and comfort as key factors in their overall experience, highlighting the growing demand for well-managed events. (UK Festival Awards 2024 Report)
Shangri-La Area Gets a Green Makeover
Beyond reducing capacity, significant changes are planned for the Shangri-La area. Eavis revealed the area is “going full trees and green space”,
a departure from its previous aesthetic. The festival has also acquired land adjacent to the main site to provide dedicated space for crew members. Eavis suggested making some of this new land accessible to the public, stating, “I kind of suggested that they make some space for the public there because I think it’s really important to try and make space, particularly in the south-east corner because it gets really busy at night.”
A new area, Dragon’s Tail, will offer a more relaxed viewing option.
Lineup Features Established Stars and a Mystery Act
The 2025 lineup boasts headliners including the British pop band The 1975, Neil Young and his band the Chrome Hearts, and US pop singer Olivia Rodrigo. Other performers include US rapper Doechii, British singer Raye, the Irish rap trio Kneecap, and Rod Stewart, who will perform in the legendary slot.
