Music Critic Ffion Haf takes a look at whether UK Festivals are likely to take place this summer in light of new government announcements
The Government have accounted that if all goes well with infection rates and vaccine emissions, then festivals will return, along with all other lockdown restrictions, by June 21st. Although guidance on what safety measures will have to be put into place have not yet been announced, it is clear that social distancing will be impossible at such large-scale events. Initiatives such as rapid testing or vaccine passports may be a possibility as to reduce the transmission of COVID.
almost 40 per cent of the night-time and live music economy workforce have been made redundant
The nightlife and live music industry have been under immense pressure over the past year due to the pandemic as no events have gone ahead. A recent survey by the NTIA and All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Night-Time Economy, investigated the impact of COVID-19 on UK nightlife. It states that almost 40 per cent of the night-time and live music economy workforce have been made redundant, and 85 per cent of people working in nightlife considering leaving the industry.
While some may be disappointed to hear that Glastonbury 2021 has officially been cancelled, many of the other big music festivals have actually announced their line-ups for summer 2021. Festivals such as TRNSMT, Reading, Leeds, Creamfields, Green Man, Boomtown, Notting Hill Carnival, Parklife, Isle of Wight, Download, Lovebox, and Bestival have announced that as long as it is within the Government guidelines that they will indeed be going ahead.
it comes as no surprise that the sale of festival tickets has reached record levels this year
It is vital that the industry gets the support it needs to continue in the future, as many will agree that live music and festivals make up a large part of the music-listening experience. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the sale of festival tickets has reached record levels this year, as people prepare to make up for lost time, people are finally being allowed the chance to get their lives back and have some fun. Pete Jordan, festival director of MADE festival, the longest-running dance music festival in the West Midlands, says ‘it is pleasantly surprising but we can tell there is a lot of pent-up demand. Young people, who have been affected by this more than most in a social situation, they just really want to get back to living life.’
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson states that he will work hard to ensure younger people will not miss out on events this summer. He said: ‘I think from a dad’s point, I’m very desperate to make sure they’re able to enjoy the benefits of opening up society.’ Festivals not only give people the opportunity to listen to amazing live music, but it also allows people the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones and be surrounded by people after a long period of loneliness.’ Live music events have always brought about the feeling of unity and community between people, and I believe that this year will be no exception. The only difference this year will be that along with your wellies and face glitter, you may need to pack some hand sanitiser, plenty of wet wipes, and your most fashion-forward face mask.
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