Festivals for 17 year old

[Ginfa]

My son is desperate to go to a festival with his friends this year - he will be 17 by then. Latitude is closest but he has a clash so I was wondering if anyone else had any reccomendations for suitable ones in August at all? I was wondering about reading or even board masters

I was going to suggest Green Man but they’ve sold out already for 2026! Try Camp Bestival.

Does it not depend on what music he likes, who the headliners will be ?

This! Plus where his friends are going. Not sure he’ll need or want your input. Probably your cash though!

I agree with what others have said, at 17 I’d expect him to be deciding himself.

Definitely not Camp Bestival for a 17 year old, unless they’re very into Mr Tumble. The line up can be fun but it’s rammed with under 8’s.

Boardies is fun, but weather can be challenging and it’s getting a reputation. Reading is traditional and a decent site for a first time festival goer. Things like Truck or Why Not (both run by Substruct) can be good for first time festival goers but Truck has no mobile signal so don’t expect to hear from him!

Remember there is no Glastonbury next year so I’d expect things to book up earlier than normal. We are going to Truck and have bought tickets without knowing the line up as it’s clear it will sell out sooner than ever.

I know it probably won't be checked but some festivals insist on an adult with under 18year olds so at worst make sure you get an adult ticket not a teen one.

I went to Reading as an adult a few years ago (band I love were headlining) and I was the oldest person there by several decades! I think its generally considered to be where kids go to celebrate finishing their GCSEs so it will be perfect for a first timer, presuming there are bands he likes on next year. Good mix of different types of music, felt very safe and friendly. I’d be happy with DD going if she wanted to.

Check the age limit carefully. A lot won't let in under 18s without an adult

Almost all festivals allow over 16’s without an adult. I can’t think of any that don’t.

Isle of wight. Bearded theory. Glastonbudget. End of the road.

Reading, Leeds or Creamfields for that age, depending on his music preferences Is he planning on going with friends? They all need to agree!