The Festival Lowdown
THE FESTIVAL LOWDOWN
Summer is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing — festival season is calling. Whether you’re dreaming of dancing to sun-drenched beats on a Mediterranean beach, catching legendary headliners under the British sky, or discovering the next big thing at a cosy city fest below, it’s a simple bite size go-to guide for an unforgettable summer.
From hidden electronic treasures to iconic rock legends, we’ve handpicked the top festivals lighting up the UK and Europe in 2025.
If you don’t fancy the crowds or can’t make an event, why not organise your own?
Quinn Artistes can help you create your very own ‘mini fest’, whether it be ‘Taylor Swift’ or ‘Justin Timberlake’ headlining or ‘Billy Joel’ in the legend spot. Quinn Artistes have a range of ‘acts’ that can help you soak up the summer sun. We can tailor your day to suit your requirements.
For inspiration or to get your summer diary sorted, have a look at the most reputable and fun festivals of 2025.
Wide Awake Festival
23rd May – Brockwell Park, London
Fresh off its win for Festival of the Year at the 2024 Rolling Stone UK Awards, Wide Awake continues to prove you don’t need a sprawling site or dozens of stages to deliver one of the UK’s best music experiences. This one-day celebration of leftfield indie, post-punk, and underground electronic music has become a must for fans looking to discover their next obsession. From Kneecap’s riot-starting Irish rap to CMAT’s theatrical pop and Daniel Avery’s immersive DJ sets, every act on the bill is carefully chosen — even the earliest slots feel like headline moments in the making.
2025 Line-up Highlights:
Kneecap, CMAT, English Teacher, Peaches, Daniel Avery.
Insider Tip:
Take time to explore the indie gems around Brockwell Park — from cosy cafés to old-school barbers, it’s the perfect way to support the local community while you’re there.
Mallorca Live Festival
12–14th June – Calvià, Mallorca
If you’re after legendary acts, electric energy, and a dose of Mallorca’s unmistakable magic, Mallorca Live is the one. As the biggest cultural celebration in the Balearic Islands, it blends world-class performances with the island’s vibrant local spirit. Whether you’re rocking out to the raw power of Iggy Pop, immersed in Massive Attack’s cinematic set, or discovering rising stars on the La Plaza Electronic Stage, this festival delivers moments you won’t forget.
2025 Line-up Highlights:
Iggy Pop, Massive Attack, Suede, Bad Gyal, Ralphie Choo, Chloé Caillet, TSHA
Insider Tip:
Book early — nearby accommodations fill up quickly. With three-day pass and hotel packages from just €282, it’s a no-brainer for a sun-soaked festival escape.
We Love Green
6–8th June – Paris, France
True to its name, We Love Green is as passionate about the planet as it is about great music. Set among the lush trees of Paris’s Bois de Vincennes, this eco-conscious weekender blends a future-focused lineup with serious sustainability creds — think solar-powered stages, zero-waste food stalls, and climate-focused talks between sets. But don’t let the green values fool you — this is still a proper party. Expect boundary-pushing electronic sets, big-name headliners, and a crowd that’s effortlessly stylish (it is Paris, after all). Beyond the music, there’s art, sharp-witted comedy, and talks from some of France’s most compelling voices.
2025 Line-up Highlights:
Charli XCX, LCD Soundsystem, Laylow, FKA twigs, Gesaffelstein
Insider Tip:
Pack a tote — you’ll want it for the organic wine, next-level street food, and maybe even a spontaneous picnic in the park.
Meltdown Festival
12th–22nd June – Southbank Centre, London
For its 30th anniversary, Meltdown Festival is passing the torch to none other than Little Simz, making her the youngest curator in the festival’s storied history. Renowned for breaking boundaries across hip-hop, soul, and beyond, Simz is set to infuse the Southbank Centre with her bold, future-facing vision. While the full line-up remains under wraps, expect a carefully curated mix of cutting-edge talent, unexpected collabs, and genre-defying performances — all reflecting her fearless musical spirit. Meltdown has always been a space for discovery, and with Simz at the helm, one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be epic.
Download Festival
13th–15th June – Donington Park, Leicestershire
Download Festival is where rock and metal’s titans clash for three days of unrelenting mayhem. This year’s lineup features heavyweights like Green Day, Sleep Token, Korn, Weezer, and Bullet for My Valentine. Set against the legendary backdrop of Donington Park—sacred ground for headbangers—Download always delivers unforgettable moments: from explosive sing-alongs and pyrotechnic-fueled sets to anthems that hit with seismic force. Beyond the pit, the festival village is a paradise of iconic merch, alt-style vendors, and enough grub to keep even the most hardcore moshers going strong.
Glastonbury Festival
25th–29th June – Worthy Farm, Somerset
There’s nothing on Earth quite like Glastonbury. It’s not just the sheer scale—over 100 stages, hidden corners at every turn, and 200,000 people—it’s the atmosphere, the energy, the magic. Every artist dreams of playing here, and this year, Neil Young finally makes his long-awaited debut on the iconic Pyramid Stage, adding a new chapter to its legendary history. But Glastonbury is just as much about the unexpected: secret sets in tucked-away tents, sunrise parties at the Stone Circle, or stumbling into a 4am drag show at NYC Downlow. It’s a place where the unplanned becomes unforgettable.
Confirmed artists: The 1975, Neil Young, Olivia Rodrigo, Doechii, Charli XCX, Raye, Noah Kahan, Rod Stewart
Insider tip: Make a plan if you must—but be ready to toss it out. Say yes to the unexpected. That’s where the real Glasto magic happens.
Montreux Jazz Festival
4th–19th July – Montreux, Switzerland
Montreux isn’t just a jazz festival—it’s a musical pilgrimage. Framed by the Swiss Alps and overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva, it’s one of the most breathtaking settings in the world. While jazz is still its soul, Montreux’s stages have hosted legends from Prince to Radiohead, making it a haven for music lovers of every genre. Beyond the main acts, the whole town comes alive with free performances and a laid-back, sun-drenched vibe that’s uniquely Montreux.
Line-up drops 10 April.
Insider tip:
Some of the festival’s most magical moments happen off the official bill—look out for late-night jam sessions in bars, hotels, and tucked-away corners of town.
NOS Alive
10th–12th July – Lisbon, Portugal
If you’re after a festival that pairs world-class headliners with the charm of a city escape, NOS Alive is hard to top. Located just outside Lisbon, it’s only a short train ride from sun-kissed beaches by day to epic performances by night. With its legendary organisation and a consistently stellar lineup, NOS Alive is one of Europe’s most seamlessly run festivals. And let’s not forget—Portuguese food and wine outshine soggy chips and warm cans any day. Take a break in Lisbon for a pastel de nata or a fresh seafood feast before the music starts.
Confirmed artists: Olivia Rodrigo, Kings of Leon, Nine Inch Nails, Sam Fender, St. Vincent
Insider tip: NOS Alive’s venue at Passeio Marítimo de Algés is just 8 minutes from downtown Lisbon and a quick 15-minute hop to the beaches.
Exit Festival
10th–13th July – Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad, Serbia
Once again, EXIT Festival will take over the historic Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, Serbia—Europe’s second-largest fortress and a cultural landmark. Known as the “Gibraltar of the Danube,” this 17th-century stronghold is famous for its labyrinth of underground tunnels and sweeping views of the Danube River. Now, as the festival celebrates its 25th year, the fortress serves as the iconic home of EXIT, a cultural hub where arts and music collide. What were once the defensive walls of the fortress now amplify the crisp, powerful sound that echoes throughout the festival grounds.
Confirmed artists: Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter, Tiësto, Eric Prydz, Loreen, Hurts
Insider tip: The mts Dance Arena is legendary—pace yourself for the sunrise sets, they’re truly otherworldly.
Mad Cool
10th–13th July – Iberdrola Music, Madrid, Spain
Mad Cool Festival is Madrid’s ultimate summer experience, offering the perfect blend of unforgettable music, electrifying energy, and an atmosphere that pulses through the entire city. Every year, it strikes the ideal balance: huge headliners rocking massive stages alongside more intimate performances in smaller spaces. This year’s lineup is as diverse as ever, with industrial legends Nine Inch Nails, rock icon Alanis Morissette, and chart-topping Olivia Rodrigo all sharing the stage. While the music takes center stage, Mad Cool also stays true to its roots—get ready for mouthwatering Spanish food, stunning art installations, and a welcoming crowd that adds to the magic.
Confirmed artists: Olivia Rodrigo, Kings of Leon, Nine Inch Nails, Alanis Morissette, Justice
Insider tip: Plan your transport ahead of time. Madrid’s metro is solid, but festival crowds can turn it into a sweaty squeeze.
Electric Castle
16th–20th July – Bánffy Castle, Transylvania, Romania
Electric Castle returns to the iconic Bánffy Castle in Transylvania for its 11th edition, bringing five days of electrifying beats and live performances. Set against the backdrop of this historic venue, the festival blends cutting-edge sound with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Expect a dynamic lineup that spans mainstream hits and underground gems, enhanced by jaw-dropping visuals and a tight-knit community vibe. With multiple stages and the castle’s unique atmosphere, Electric Castle offers an experience that’s as innovative as it is unforgettable.
Confirmed artists: Justin Timberlake, Queens of the Stone Age, Justice, Bicep presents Chroma AV/DJ set
Insider tip: Secure your camping spot early and pack plenty of layers—Transylvanian nights can get unexpectedly chilly.
Truck Festival
24t–27th July – Hill Farm, Steventon, Oxfordshire
Truck Festival has long shed its “small festival” label, but it still carries the same DIY spirit that made it legendary, now with bigger bands and even wilder crowds. This year’s lineup includes heavy hitters like Kasabian, Courteeners, Nothing But Thieves, Blossoms, The Last Dinner Party, and Bloc Party, who’ll perform Silent Alarm in full—be sure to arrive early for that iconic set. Year after year, Truck proves why it’s one of the summer’s best weekends, thanks to its mix of indie legends, rising stars, and those unforgettable Oxfordshire farm vibes.
Insider tip: Bloc Party’s Silent Alarm set is a must—get to the main stage early to grab a good spot.
Maiden Voyage Festival
9th August – Burgess Park, London
Small but packed with power, Maiden Voyage is a one-day exploration of the finest electronic, hip-hop, and leftfield sounds. Forget overcrowded line-ups and stage conflicts—this festival keeps it intimate with four expertly curated stages and a crowd that truly knows their music. Whether you’re vibing to a marathon techno set, diving into cutting-edge rap and R&B, or discovering a new favourite DJ in the sun, Maiden Voyage delivers. Add top-tier street food, a picturesque park setting, and a lineup that consistently punches above its weight, and you’ve got one of London’s most sought-after underground festivals.
Confirmed artists: Azealia Banks, Amaarae, Ben Klock, Shanti Celeste, Or:la
Insider tip: There’s a no re-entry policy, so be sure to eat, charge your phone, and grab everything you need before entering the festival grounds.
Green Man Festival
14th–17th August – Bannau Brycheiniog, Wales
While many festivals promise an escape, Green Man truly makes it happen. Nestled in the stunning hills of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), this indie-focused weekend festival offers as much charm in its setting as it does in its lineup. Blending alternative icons with up-and-coming folk and psych acts, this year’s confirmed artists include Wet Leg, Kneecap, Underworld, and TV On The Radio. But it’s not just about the music—Green Man also features thought-provoking science talks in Einstein’s Garden, along with comedy, films, and late-night vibes at the Far Out stage. With families, festival regulars, and newcomers all sharing the space, it’s one of the most relaxed weekends of the summer. And don’t miss the final ritual burning of the Green Man effigy—a truly magical moment.
Insider tip: The Settler’s Pass transforms Green Man into a week-long adventure, where you can camp in the mountains, explore nearby forests, and unwind by the Settlement bonfire.
Victorious Festival
22th–24th August – Southsea Seafront, Portsmouth
The UK’s largest family-friendly metropolitan festival takes place at the stunning Southsea Solent, one of the country’s most picturesque festival settings. This year’s headliners include Grammy-winning Kings of Leon, Queens of the Stone Age, and Vampire Weekend—who’ll be performing their only UK festival show of the summer. Also joining the 2025 lineup are the multi-talented Michael Kiwanuka, Madness, Nelly Furtado, The Last Dinner Party, and Travis. With some of the best value tickets around, Victorious offers something for everyone, including top-notch comedy from Joel Dommett and Ruby Wax.
Confirmed artists: Queens of the Stone Age, Vampire Weekend, Kings of Leon, Michael Kiwanuka, Madness
Insider tip: Make your way to the waterfront and soak in the sunset at the fan-favourite Seaside Stage, with breathtaking views of Southsea Solent.
Reading & Leeds Festival
21th–24th August – Reading (Richfield Avenue) & Leeds (Bramham Park)
Reading & Leeds are known for delivering some of the summer’s most unforgettable festival moments. Whether it’s wild mosh pits, massive sing-alongs, or chaotic campsite antics, these twin festivals bring the energy every year. The 2025 lineup is no exception, featuring a powerhouse mix of rock, hip-hop legends, and breakthrough artists. Get ready for Travis Scott’s only European festival appearance, Chappell Roan’s exclusive UK set, and a lineup full of icons and rising stars ready to dominate the main stages. With legendary late-night parties and a crowd that never quits, it’s one of the best ways to spend a bank holiday.
Confirmed artists: Chappell Roan, Hozier, Bring Me The Horizon, Travis Scott, AJ Tracey, Becky Hill, Bloc Party, Enter Shikari, The Kooks, Amyl and The Sniffers
Insider tip: The festivals have revamped their camping for 2025—head online to design the perfect experience for you.
Contact Quinn Artistes to create your own Mini Fest this summer!
All of our acts are fully self-contained (with PAT certificates and Public liability insurance), so you won’t need the added expense or concern of hiring an AV company.
Maybe you are a budding event organiser and need a ‘go-to’ company that can take responsibility for sourcing the perfect tribute bands or acts. Quinn Artistes are the perfect solution!
