Ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through festival lineups, wondering which one’s actually worth the ticket? Same. With so many amazing events out there, it can feel impossible to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in — a few simple tips to help you figure out which festival is your perfect match.
1. The Lineup
If you ask me, the first thing to check when you’re picking a festival is the lineup. What kind of music do you actually want to hear all weekend? Start with the genres you love, then have a look at who’s playing. Don’t just focus on the big names either — some of the best moments come from smaller acts you’ve never heard of before but end up talking about for months afterwards.
2. The Location
Think about where the festival takes place. Are you after something local and easy to get to, or would you rather turn it into a bigger trip and explore a new city—or even a new country? It’s worth checking what the weather’s usually like at that time of year too. Sweltering heat, heavy rain, or chilly nights can all change the vibe completely, so ask yourself if you’re happy to embrace whatever nature throws at you, or if you’d rather stick to somewhere with a milder climate.
3. Festival Size
Size matters as well. Some festivals feel almost like private gatherings, with just a few hundred people and a cosy, community feel. Others are sprawling, multi-day spectacles with endless stages and a crowd the size of a small city. Which atmosphere excites you more? Do you want the intimacy and slower pace of a smaller event, or are you ready to dive into the buzz and chaos of something on a much bigger scale?
4. The Cost
Festival costs can swing wildly. Some are free, others will eat up a big chunk of your savings before you’ve even got your wristband. Be clear on how much you’re willing to spend—and not just on the ticket. Factor in travel, a place to sleep, food, drinks, and all those unplanned extras that somehow always happen.
5. Camping and Accommodation
Accommodation is another big one. Plenty of festivals offer camping, which can be half the adventure (or half the struggle, depending on your style). If you’re up for it, check what the setup’s like—facilities, shade, whether you can park nearby. If tents aren’t your vibe, you’ll want to lock in a hotel or Airbnb early, especially for the big-name events where rooms vanish months before the gates even open.
6. Amenities and Services
Think about the little things that can make or break your weekend—good food, clean loos, somewhere to refill your water bottle, a place to chill if you need a breather, and decent medical support just in case. Check the festival’s site, but also dig into reviews from people who’ve actually been there. They’ll tell you if the queues are worth it, if the veggie options are any good, and whether the toilets hold up past day one.
7. Safety and Security
Safety and security should always be a top priority when attending a music festival. Research the festival’s policies and procedures for ensuring the safety and security of attendees, as well as its history of security incidents or problems.
By considering these factors, you can determine the right music festival for you and have an enjoyable and memorable experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – you may discover a new favourite festival you never knew existed!
At the end of the day, the “right” festival is the one that ticks your boxes. Maybe that’s a dream lineup, maybe it’s being able to walk from your tent to the stage in under five minutes, maybe it’s knowing there’s shade when you need it. Weigh up the music, the location, the cost, the amenities, and the overall vibe. Once you find the one that feels like your perfect match, go all in—you’ll come home with memories, stories, and probably a few new friends for life.
