The Pilton Party. The organisers of Glastonbury Festival organise more than one festival each year. There is the main one, which is officially called The Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts. Then there is The Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza, and finally there is The Pilton Party.
I went to my first Pilton Party in 2024 and loved it. It felt like a goodbye gig to summer and to Worthy Farm itself before the dark, cold days kick in. I was having flashbacks of past Glastonburys as I watched each set. Just like the main festival, I vowed to go every year after my first one. The tickets are a lot easier to get hold of, thankfully!
What is The Pilton Party?
The Pilton Party is an annual fundraising event as a thank you to the villagers of Pilton, who have to put up with a lot of disturbance during the main Glastonbury Festival. The money raised goes towards community projects, groups and charities.
When did the Pilton Party begin?
The first Pilton Party was held in 1984, making 2024 the 40th anniversary.
Where is the Pilton Party held?
It is held at Worthy Farm, like the main festival. To be more precise, the stage is located near where the Woodsies stage is at Glastonbury Festival.
Who has played the Pilton Party?
Here are just some of the acts that have played:
- Coldplay
- Placebo
- Foals
- The Stone Roses
- Massive Attack
- The Streets
- Liam Gallagher
- Wolf Alice
- Fatboy Slim
- Catatonia
- Bastille
- Plan B
- Rudimental
- The Libertines
- CMAT
What is the crowd like at the Pilton Party?
It is a great mix of Glastonbury veterans, locals, Glasto addicts and newbies who are sussing Glastonbury out for the first time. Last year, I got talking to a woman who had been coming to Glastonbury festival since the 80s. The first time she arrived at Worthy Farm, she was riding a shire horse! (She was part of the Battle of Beanfield.)
You might also meet some really nice people, who help put the shows together! See below.
Is there food and drink at the Pilton Party?
Yes, there are quite a few food vendors and one bar selling alcohol.
Can I take my own food and alcohol to the Pilton Party?
Yes, you can.
Will there be the longdrops at The Pilton Party?
Oh yes! They are a part of Worthy Farm now, and you can’t avoid them. I was actually happy to see them! hahaha.
Is the Pilton Party on during the fallow years?
Yes, it has been held during Glastonbury’s fallow years, so hopefully that will still be the case.
Is there camping at The Pilton Party?
No, there is no camping. You have to book your own accommodation if you are visiting.
Is there car parking at The Pilton Party?
Yes, there is free on-site parking for ticket holders.
Are there shuttle buses to the Pilton Party?
Yes, there are shuttle buses from Glastonbury Town and Shepton Mallet. You need to purchase these bus tickets when buying the Pilton Party tickets.
Conclusions
If you are a lover of live music, Glastonbury Festival and a relaxed crowd, then The Pilton Party is for you. It is one last hurrah before we all head into indoor gigs over the autumn and winter.
See you on the farm!
The 100% Unofficial Glastonbury Festival Guidebook Is Now Available
Hey there, Glasto Newbie!
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PDF Version:
