Part 6: How many stages are there?
Navigating the stages at Glastonbury is like exploring a musical world in microcosm, with each stage offering its own unique flavour and atmosphere. From the iconic Pyramid to the intimate Acoustic Stage, the dance driven Silver Hayes to the politically-charged Left Field, there's a stage to suit every musical taste and curiosity. These stages are loud. Protect your ears, get yourself some ear plugs. I wear Alpine Party Pro (external affiliate link).
Pyramid Stage: The iconic Pyramid Stage is Glastonbury's heart, showcasing the world's most famous acts. It's a behemoth of steel and canvas, resembling a futuristic pyramid, and represents the peak of Glastonbury's musical landscape.
Other Stage: A hefty rival to the Pyramid Stage, the Other Stage offers an equally impressive lineup, with big-name bands and artists routinely gracing its vast platform, often encompassing a slightly edgier, more alternative vibe.
West Holts Stage: Formerly the Jazz World Stage, West Holts champions a global mix of funk, soul, world music, and more. It's the place for those seeking an eclectic musical experience away from the mainstream.
John Peel Stage: Named after the legendary radio DJ and renamed ‘Woodsies’ in 2023, this stage is renowned for showcasing emerging talent and a few surprise big-name acts. It's the go-to stage for new music discovery.
The Park Stage: Located in the festival's more bohemian area, The Park Stage offers a blend of established acts and fresh talent. Its breathtaking views and surprise guests make it a must-visit.
Silver Hayes: Home to six different areas, it's a pulsating hub of dance music, DJs, and electronic acts, offering everything from drum and bass to house, techno, and more.
Acoustic Stage: As the name implies, this stage offers a platform for unplugged performances. Its intimate and often heartfelt sets provide a soothing contrast to the festival's more raucous areas.
Avalon Stage: Set within the festival's 'Fields of Avalon', this stage presents a mix of folk, country, and roots music, featuring both rising stars and seasoned performers.
Glade Stage: Tucked within a copse of trees, the Glade Stage offers a fairy-tale setting for a range of electronic acts, from ambient to psytrance.
Left Field: This is the festival's political hub, where music and debate meet. Expect passionate performances and rousing discussions in equal measure.
BBC Introducing Stage: This stage is the breeding ground for the stars of tomorrow. Offering a platform for unsigned, undiscovered, and under-the-radar musicians, it's the place to catch future headliners first. Listen to our interview with Maya Lakhani who appeared on this stage in 2024
Croissant Neuf Stage: One of the oldest areas at Glastonbury, the Croissant Neuf marquee, powered entirely by solar energy, showcases an array of folk, acoustic, and world music.
Kidzfield Big Top: Don't let the name fool you; the performances here are as serious as they come. This family-friendly stage features a range of child-centred entertainment, from storytelling to magic shows, and occasionally plays host to some big-name acts too.
The Unfairground: A surreal, nocturnal wonderland of underground dance music and radical art installations. The music here is raw, unfiltered, and best experienced when the sun goes down.
The Green Fields: Not just one stage, but a collection of smaller venues and attractions, hosting everything from folk and world music to speakers and workshops, all with an eco-friendly twist.
