Glastonbury’s legendary mud and magic arrive early—Day 1 (Thursday, 26 June 2025) is all about settling in under shifting skies, finding hidden rituals, and chasing surprise performances before the main stages roar to life. Here’s your in-depth guide to make the most of Arrival Day, packed with weather intel, insider tips, and the can’t-miss pop-up moments that set the tone for the weekend.
Arrival & Festival Vibe
Gates opened at 8 AM, and tens of thousands of fans flooded Worthy Farm to pitch tents, explore the labyrinthine site, and sample early street-food delights. Although the main stages stay quiet until Friday, the buzz in the campsite villages and Green Fields is electric. Use this calm before the storm to locate your nearest water point, scout out late-night food trucks, and sync your wristband to the official Vodafone-powered Glasto app for real-time updates.
Weather & Packing Tips
- Forecast: Light rain showers tapering off by midday, high of 22 °C, low of 13 °C, with a 70 % chance of drizzle through the morning.
- Essentials: Waterproof layers (poncho or jacket), quick-dry trousers, wellies or sturdy trainers, and a small daypack with snacks and a reusable water bottle.
- Pro Tip: Pack a lightweight folding stool or sit-mat—green fields get muddy fast, and a dry seat makes all the difference.
“Biggest Mantra for Peace” in the Sacred Space
At 12:30 PM, head to the Sacred Space for the Biggest Mantra for Peace, a thousand-voice meditation circle lit by global peace flames. This year’s art by Stanley Donwood frames the circle, making it a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re chanting along or simply taking in the serene atmosphere, this communal ritual is a rare chance to dial down the festival frenzy and connect with fellow Glastonbury pilgrims.
Pop-Up Performances & Secret Set
While main-stage headliners await Friday, Thursday’s real action happens off the grid:
- Acoustic drops at Woodsies and Strummerville throughout the afternoon—local emerging artists often surprise with guest appearances.
- Midnight–1 AM Secret Set by the mysterious duo Yessir in Strummerville—mark it on your Clashfinder and arrive early to snag a front-row spot under starlight.
Food Courts & Village Collaborations
West Holts and Jazz World open at 11 AM, featuring everything from vegan barbecue to Somerset’s artisanal cheeses. Don’t miss the new WaterAid & Greenpeace collaboration bar, pouring limited-edition eco-cocktails and showcasing festival-funded water projects. A perfect pit-stop for nourishment and a cause-driven cheers.
Art Installations & Wellness
Meander the Green Fields art trail to find the year’s Stanley Donwood sculptures and interactive lantern installations. For a midday recharge, drop into wellness workshops—yoga, sound-healing, and guided breathing sessions run hourly from 10 AM. These pockets of calm are essential prep for a marathon weekend of nonstop music.
Looking Ahead: What’s on Friday
Tomorrow (Friday, 27 June) the Pyramid, Other, and Acoustic stages ignite with big-name acts—The 1975, Olivia Rodrigo, Neil Young, Charli XCX, and Rod Stewart. Bookmark your Clashfinder, charge your power bank, and rest up tonight to hit the ground running when the music truly begins.
