In 2013, Matt Blumberg launched GlastonBarry, a tribute festival, with the goal of providing a positive and joyful experience for his hometown of Barry, Wales. What started as a local event with 500 attendees has grown into a three-day festival attracting 18,000 people. Blumberg, a former primary school teacher, described the transformation of the community initiative into a “monster” event.
GlastonBarry, named after Glastonbury, is part of the growing trend of tribute festivals in the UK. Other popular events include Glastonbudget, Tribfest, and Big Fake Festival, which showcase tribute acts such as Oasish, Antarctic Monkeys, Coldplace, Badness, the Fillers, Stereotonics, and Blondied. According to the Entertainment Agents Association (TEAA), ticket sales for tribute festivals have been steadily increasing over the past five years, leading to some events moving to larger venues due to high demand.
This week, Steps star Ian “H” Watkins had to change the name of his Cowbridge tribute festival, Cowchella, after the organizers of the California event made an official complaint.
The popularity of tribute events can be attributed to various factors. It provides an affordable alternative to traditional concerts, especially during the current cost of living crisis. Additionally, there is a nostalgic factor and the accessibility of these events for families.
At GlastonBarry, weekend tickets cost £65 and the festival features 22 acts over two days, ensuring something for everyone from Eminem to Bad Manners. Organized by Blumberg’s company Mack Events, the festival encourages fancy dress and attracts groups such as hen
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/jun/07/want-to-see-oasish-play-glastonbarry-well-you-can-how-tribute-festivals-grew-into-a-monster
