AIBU to worry about a 16 year old going to the Reading festival?

[Ifnotdufferswontdrown]

DS1 wants to go to the Reading festival after GCSE results, DH says he can't go, I think we probably should let him but still quite nervous... Should we say yes and if so how do I (we) persuade DH? He (DS) is very sensible but will only just be 16.

That's reassuring, thank you - I did think it would be mostly the younger ones there. I think he would avoid drugs and wouldn't be able to afford to get drunk! And we are only an hour away, if there was a problem. DH has offered to take him just for the day but about 20 friends are camping so I don't think he'd want to come back after a day. I'll keep working on DH to change his mind before the tickets sell out....

I was not allowed to go to Reading at 16, however I went at 17 and my younger brother was allowed that year at just 16 which I found dreadfully unfair but the reasoning was I’d already been & could supervise if needed! A lot of underage booze & substances were consumed by both, but we were fundamentally sensible kids. He’ll hsve a great time!

Agree with previous posts especially as it is only 1 hour away. It's Boardmasters here - one hour away from us and lasts 3 days. Let him go to it - keep in touch with him (if only the odd text).I also looked at previous threads whigh had suggestions as to what he should pack - the right tent, enough waterproof stuff etc makes things go a lot smoother.

My DC went very recently age 16 - it is FULL of 16 year olds celebrating their GCSEs. They see lots of mates from lots of schools and have a blast. And yes if your DC is irresponsible there is lots of opportunity to go off the rails. Mine sensible and loved it.

Festival also well run - they know they have lots of teens drinking too much (although they do their best to check) and LOTS of water being given to them at every opportunity.

TOP TIP: Put all valuables into bum bag, tie it round your ankle inside your sleeping bag while you sleep. Then even if hands find their way through tent doors or wherever they will not find valuables.

Ooooh the memories I saw Nivarna there in 1996. She’ll be fine, cold and wet but fine

Another Reading dweller here. My girls both went at 16, they still go now too. It's definitely more geared towards the younger ones these days as it's changed a lot.
Clearly there are a few locals on this forum, so if anything major happened I'm sure one of us could be there to help until you arrived. I live 500m from the festival site!

Just found this thread on a search. Posted on Teenagers Board. DS really badly wants to go but has previous form with drugs, although since he was busted he's toed the line.

I'm a bit conflicted, but all his mates are going.

Daughter did it at that age, she's too old now she in her early 20's!!