Featured Image: Camilla Whitfield
The significance of Glastonbury as a global cultural phenomenon has long been ingrained into my brain. Every Summer it became a ritual to watch Glastonbury through the BBC’s coverage – the brightly coloured flags and ethos of uniting the masses through music were hallmarks of the event. After becoming an Emerging Talent Judge for Glastonbury Festival’s Emerging Talent Competition, I received a ticket and press pass for the festival – meaning I could finally experience it first-hand and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Wednesday 22nd June
After arriving at the site, we made our way to the Bronze gate. It was the most difficult part of the week as we didn’t have a car, so we had to carry everything in one trip – it also happened to be the hottest day of the week too. After soldiering on, it wasn’t long before we checked in and picked up our wristbands. All that was left to do was to pitch the tent. The stewards at hospitality were very lovely and a special mention has to go to the one, who insisted on regular sunscreen application.
After exploring the food vans and the site, I settled on mac and cheese before picking up a press pass from the press tent. In the Hospitality area, the Oxfam store became a favourite stop and I still regret not picking up a velvet embellished jacket. We also visited The Spirit of Glastonbury Exhibition there, which was really special. Displaying past posters and memorabilia, one of the most striking was a poster with Micheal Eavis on it and the quote, “Are you the fellow who started it all? – The Queen”. Cultural royalty being recognised by the monarchy felt quite apt. During the evening, viewing the beautiful sunset from the stone circle and the fireworks from Silver Hayes was a real highlight.
Thursday 23rd June
Waking up to another lovely day of weather, we were basking in the sun while waiting for the showers. We took a closer look at The Park and the Rainbow Ribbon Tower which was incredible. William’s Green certainly proved variety is the spice of life at Glastonbury – from screening ‘Summer of Soul’ to showcasing Melanie C on the decks, it was certainly memorable. Simply streaming ‘Spice Up Your Life’ just won’t cut it anymore.
After picking up a falafel wrap, a copy of Glastonbury Free Press, and one of the Guardian tote bags – it was time to discover more of the site. Catching a glimpse of the explosive rock band Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs on the Truth Stage and walking through the whimsical buzz of the Unfairground, kept reminding us how expansive the site actually was.
Strolling through the more serene Greenpeace fields, we got to see Nadia Sheikh on the Lizard Stage. Her ethereal indie-rock set was certainly a stand out from the festival and her track ‘Love Is Undefined’, has been on heavy rotation since.
Friday 24th June
Almost halfway through the festival already, we caught parts of The Libertines’ and Ziggy Marley’s sets on the Pyramid Stage, which were each incredible. There was also a powerful video message from the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, which reminded us of our privilege and the power of communities coming together.
On the BBC Introducing stage, Lewis McLaughlin proved exactly why he’d won the Emerging Talent Competition. His confidence radiated throughout his performance and the audience consistently reflected his energy. His uplifting folk track, ‘Summer’, was his winning ETC track and a real joy to experience live. Sunshine and undeniably talented musicians, this is what summer is all about.
Reminding us of what we almost missed due to their flight being cancelled, Wolf Alice exuded strength as they took us through their spectacular set on the Pyramid Stage. We were also treated to a performance by industry legends, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss. Hearing ‘Rock and Roll’ live was certainly a moment to remember.
Given the 5* performance we’ve come to expect from him, Sam Fender used a smattering of pyro, however, the emphasis really was on his powerful vocals and lyrics. His emotional set was heightened by his talented band mates, especially the soulful addition of the saxophone – courtesy of Johnny ‘Bluehat’ Davis.
The first and youngest weekend headliner ever, Billie Eilish put on a flawless performance for the ages – from immediately captivating the audience with ‘bury a friend’ to fireworks exploding while she belted out her final track, ‘Happier Than Ever’.
Saturday 25th June
Finally getting to see Holly Humberstone on the John Peel Stage after having ‘Scarlett’, on repeat was a highlight. Pushing through the understandable nerves, she gave an incredible performance driven by soul. Swiftly followed by Self Esteem, who handed out black cowboy hats emblazoned with ‘Prioritise Pleasure’. It is not only an eye-catching souvenir but also an important reminder that is often forgotten. Everyone left the tent feeling empowered and revitalised, especially after witnessing ‘I Do This All The Time’, live.
Before Haim could take to the stage, we heard from climate activist Greta Thunberg, which reminded us of Glastonbury’s long-standing environmental roots and the importance of coming together as a collective. Taking on the Pyramid Stage, Haim’s set was utterly electric. Standing for feminism and uplifting others, there’s nothing more important than that. After seeing Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and experiencing some of his old Oasis hits and new fan favourites – it wasn’t long before it was time for Paul McCartney to take to the stage.
After spotting Kate Moss and Aaron Taylor-Johnson watching along from the barrier, it was our first indication of how star-studded this affair was. Throw in two surprise guests in the form of Bruce Springsteen and Dave Grohl, and it was certainly an unforgettable evening. We continued our night by visiting Arcadia to see Calvin Harris. Where else could you see red strobe lights, blazing fire, and a giant metal spider?
Sunday 26th June
After seeing Sports Team’s wonderfully energetic set at the John Peel stage in the morning, it was time for the secret set. Not that it was the best-kept secret, as George Ezra had already shared far and wide that he would be appearing. Listing off hits from ‘Green Green Grass’ to ‘Shotgun’, he certainly delivered the fun summer atmosphere he’d promised. Similarly, hearing Lorde sing ‘Green Light’, was another wonderful moment as it reminded you of the joy of being surrounded by the sound of wonderfully unexpected artists.
Food highlights of the day included an ice cream while catching part of Fontaines D.C, and vegan nachos while sitting in the sun. Certainly worthy of the ‘Teatime Legend’ slot, it was no surprise that Diana Ross drew such a large crowd. Everybody was dressed head-to-toe in sequins and belted out the words to, ‘I’m Coming Out’.
One of the final things on my Glastonbury bucket list was a visit to Glastonbury-On-Sea. Taking pictures in the fun house mirrors, sliding down a helter-skelter, posting postcards home, and seeing a rock band made of metal, was another surreal facet of Glastonbury. Finishing off the evening with back-to-back slots of Kendrick Lamar and the Pet Shop Boys, the novelty of seeing such prominent artists never dwindled.
Monday 27th June
After almost a week at the site, it was sadly time to go home. There’s nothing that can prepare you for the dramatic rollercoaster that is Glastonbury. Taking home a few Guardian tote bags, a cowboy hat, and a lot of new memories, it was the most surreal experience. Full of surprises and never once ceasing to be boring, I’m already keeping my eyes peeling for potential artists headlining next year. Hopefully, I’ll be there for a second dose of Britain’s biggest festival, and believe what people tell you – there’s nothing like the magic of Glastonbury.
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