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UK festivals artists can apply to play at in 2024
By Pirate Staff / March 06, 2024
Demos and mixes at the ready. These are some of the best UK festivals to apply to now if you want a slot in 2024.
Say whatever else you like about this country, there’s no match for the UK’s appetite for summer festivals. From as early as April, through September, there are seemingly limitless opportunities to attend world-class EDM festivals, drum and bass festivals, indie festivals, and everything in between. From boutique, holistic, ambient retreats, to epic, chaotic, hedonistic experiences, there’s no reason to spend weekends indoors this summer.
If you’re a live act, DJ, or in a band, you’ve probably spent some time at music festivals fantasising about being on stage or on the other side of the decks. To avoid being in the exact same position this year, apply to play at summer festivals in 2024 early.
Many UK festivals this year have a bespoke application process, most of which are quick and easy, but with strict closing dates. Other upcoming festivals ask that hopeful performers reach out to bookers directly via email. Below, we've put together some tips on tackling both sorts of festival applications in 2024, as well as a list of UK festivals currently filling slots.
How to apply to perform at music festivals
To apply to perform at music festivals in 2024, you’ll either need to fill out a custom application form or email a booker directly.
In both cases, it’s important to include everything the festival needs to properly consider your pitch. Even bookers for small UK festivals review hundreds of applications each year; they don’t have time to chase you for missing information.
With a custom form, it’s much easier to know exactly what information to include, but even with the application divided into neat little sections, it can be difficult to know how much detail to go into in your bio, what sort of file to send your music as, how many press images to include, and so on.
You need to nail your pitch to stand out from the crowd, so here are some tips to help you do just that:
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Record your music. It goes without saying that to get booked, you need to show the festival team what you can do. Make sure your demo is good quality, and uploaded to a streaming service. Don’t make bookers download your music. Make accessing your demo as easy as possible by sending a Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud or Mixcloud link. (Sending unreleased material? You can send private links on most platforms.)
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Use social media. If you don’t have an Instagram account dedicated to your act, set one up. An account with few followers is still better than none at all. You don’t need to have Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and TikTok profile, though this would be optimal. Just set up as many accounts as you’re comfortable with, and have time to maintain. If you’re in a band, this is a responsibility you can all share with posting and content ideas.
Tiktok can be a powerful marketing tool, with artists able to share their creative progress with a seemingly unlimited audience. It seems that a lot of independent artists are active on TikTok nowadays - PinkPantheress probably being the most famous TikTok certified star, but that doesn’t mean there’s more of the pie for everyone. Regular posting and casual Tone of Voice perform best.
Instagram can be a great way to share your behind the scenes photos, headshots and stories of gigs. Utilise this as your “face” - think polished images, fun stories and engaging with your community.
Facebook and X should be used for news opportunities, upcoming gigs and funny thoughts.
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Get professional press shots taken. When you do get booked, it’s likely that you’ll be asked for press photos to feature on the festival’s website and social media. Having these already shows the booker that you’re prepared. If you’ve got a friend with a camera, book them in for an hour. It’s as easy as that.
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Write an artist bio. There are many different ways to approach writing an artist bio. You want to get your personality across, in exactly the right amount of words. There’s quite a lot to consider when it comes to summing yourself up, so we’ve put together separate comprehensive guides on how to write a music artist bio and how to write a DJ bio. Both are available on the Pirate website.
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Create an EPK (electronic press kit). This is a document that contains all the information above, along with your upcoming gig schedule, tech rider and links to your website, any music videos etc. It’s essentially a one-stop shop for information about your band. There are lots of great platforms online that will help you structure your own EPK easily and professionally, such as ReverbNation, Bandzoogle, Sonicbids and LoudUp. You don’t need any graphic design skills, I promise.
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Performance Videos This can be key for DJs / Bands / Solo acts. It doesn’t have to be squeaky clean professional quality, though that helps. Some festivals need to see you performing to get a taste of your energy on stage and in your performance - so if you have a killer video of your first gig, Include this to stand out from the crowd.
Choosing your best music
It’s always important when submitting applications to send a track or a mix that both represents yourself, and has to fit in with the overall line up of the festival/gig you’re playing.
Research current and past headliners and if you haven’t heard of them, give them a listen! Do any of your tracks fit the similar vibe? It’s all about a sound profile for festivals - you won’t find Dua Lipa and Carl Cox on the same line up really, so be sure that your sound and artist bio fits in with the line up you’re applying to be a part of. It’s better to take your time applying to less festivals that fit your sound rather than anything and everything going.
Finding the right contacts
This is key to networking in the music industry, and it seems like an impossible task. To make it easier, here are some quick tips.
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Go to as many newcomer and underground gigs as you can. This is a tale as old as time but if you’re in the right place at the right time you’re in for a winner. Strike up those conversations (don’t force them), and the next manager/booker/venue owner might be who you’re talking to.
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Research labels that you enjoy and who runs them. Although artists are the magnetic force, the behind the scenes team is just as important.
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Attend Pirate Events: As a shameful self-promo, we host regular artist opportunities events with industry professionals. Why not come down to one? This might be the chance to meet your next bandmate, or get your next set at that club you’ve been dying to play.
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Take a chance on a newcomer just like you: Sometimes the best people to work with are also the ones just starting out. Does a friend of a friend produce, or wants to be a manager? Talk to them about it, you might grow together and who knows, it might actually work!
The Pirate Residency Programme
Every year, Pirate launches a Residency Programme which is an open portal of new artist opportunities, providing the know how and opps for newcomes and industry professionals alike. If you need your next festival slot or gig, check our Artist Hub regularly.
Other opportunities tend to come from collectives in your city. Research if there are any collectives or venues that are offering new gigs or open decks. Finding that new collective or artist run space might be the ticket to cementing your live career and starting your journey.
How To Apply To Festivals via the Pirate Residency
Pirate are hosting an open call DJs and Live Acts for festivals across the country. Why couldn’t it be you?. To apply, submit one of your recent mixes or tracks (hopefully recorded at our DJ studios or recording studios), and give us a feel of what your set will sound like. It doesn’t matter your level of experience - we want to hear it!!
Just fill in the typeform, going through our short questionnaire to help us find the right opportunity for you. You’ll need to provide a link to a vid of you performing, a track and your socials. We also ask for an EPK (Electronic Press Kit, see above) if possible.
Best Time To Apply
Some festivals start planning years ahead, but the best time to apply is around Jan - April for newcomer slots. Most festivals reserve line ups on smaller stages for new talent, offering slots to artists in collaboration with a brand or collective. If you’re applying on your own, try Sept-Dec for the best chance of nabbing a slot whilst the festival is planning next year’s line up.
2024 UK Festivals Open For Applications Now
- Parklife – Manchester, England
- Dot to Dot – Bristol & Nottingham, England
- Kite Festival – Oxfordshire, England
- Isle of Wight – Seaclose Park, Isle of Wight
- Green Man – Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales
- Kendal Calling – The Lake District, England
- El Dorado – Herefordshire, England
- 2000 Trees Festival – Cotswolds, England
- Worchester Music Festival – Worchester city centre, England
- Equinox – Lincolnshire, England
- The Great Escape – Brighton, England
- End Of The Road – Dorset, England
- Cross the Tracks - London, England
- City Splash - London, England
- Forbidden Forest - Leicestershire, England
- Tramlines - Sheffield, England
- Wide Awake - London, England
1. Parklife
Heaton Park, Manchester, England
8 June – 9 June 2024
OPEN TO: DJs
Manchester's wildest weekend and biggest annual celebration of modern youth culture, Parklife, is back for 2024. Embodying the essence of summer with its epic lineup — including Doja Cat, Disclosure, Kaytranada, Four Tet, Pawsa, Nia Archives, and J Hus — Parklife 2024 promises an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're on the cusp of your big break or you're a seasoned artist aiming for new heights, Parklife offers the ideal stage for what could be the best gig of your summer.
2. Dot To Dot Festival
Bristol & Nottingham, England
25 May – 26 May 2024
OPEN TO: Live artists and bands
Championing local talent, this mulit-venue event spans indie rock, post punk, electro pop and everything in between. Launched in Nottingham in 2005, the festival has since launched in Manchester and Bristol, now programming over 100 eclectic acts each year — previously welcoming Jockstrap, Snapped Ankles and Squid, to just a few.
To apply to perform at Dot To Dot 2024, get in touch with the organisers via the contact form on their website. They ask that you include the city you'd like to perform in, links to your music, an artist bio and a summary of your gigging experience to date.
3. Kite Festival
Kirtlington Park, Oxfordshire, England
7 June – 9 June 2024
OPEN TO: Live artists and bands
Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2022, which spotlighted acts like Black Country, New Road, The Orielles, Confidence Man, and Gwenno, KITE Festival has quickly established itself as one of the UK's best small festivals. It's a great place to cut your teeth if you can get a slot.
To apply, the festival team ask that you email with information about your act and some examples of your music. Video footage is a big plus.
4. Isle of Wight Festival
Seaclose Park, Isle of Wight
20 June – 23 June 2024
OPEN TO: Bands
With The Prodigy, Pet Shop Boys, and Green Day announced as this year's festival headliners, the Isle of Wight's annual talent competition offers you the chance to join an iconic lineup at this rite-of-passage weekender.
To apply, fill in the dedicated form with your band's name, genre, music, and a video of your performance. There's also space to provide any additional information you'd like, so make the most of it and inform the judges about your prior experience and accolades. If you've had some airplay or played on festival stages before, don't keep it to yourself.
5. Green Man Festival
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales
15 August – 18 August 2024
OPEN TO: Live artists and bands
For Green Man Festival 2024, aspiring performers have the opportunity to join a prestigious lineup in the stunning surroundings of the Brecon Beacons. Celebrated for its enchanting atmosphere and diverse range of music, arts, and cultural experiences, Green Man is the perfect platform for emerging talent to gain recognition alongside established artists.
To apply for a performance slot, you should email the artist submissions team directly. Your submission should include an electronic press kit (EPK) containing an up-to-date bio, high-resolution photos, links to your music, and video footage of a live performance if you can.
6. Kendal Calling
Lowther Deer Park, the Lake District, England
1 August – 4 August 2024
OPEN TO: Live artists and bands
Kendal Calling 2024, set amidst the stunning scenery of the Lake District, is once again inviting talented artists to perform at one of the UK's most cherished festivals. Celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and eclectic mix spanning various genres, the festival serves as an unmatched stage for emerging talent to stand out alongside renowned performers.
'Apply to Play' submissions will officially open in Spring 2024, well before the festival happening in August. While you wait, now is the ideal time to begin assembling a detailed electronic press kit (EPK)!
7. El Dorado
Eastnor Castle Deer Park, Herefordshire, England
11 July – 14 July 2024
OPEN TO: Bands, DJs & performers of all disciplines
Situated in lush, dense countryside, El Dorado is loved for its eclectic programming of live acts, DJs, cabaret, comedy and food. Previously hosting Kojey Radical, Enny, Riot Jazz, Sherelle, LCY and Zaltsman, you can find a perfect soundtrack for an afternoon hang or late night dancing, whatever your mood.
You can apply for a live performance or to DJ using the dedicated form on the El Dorado website.
8. 2000 Trees
Cheltenham, England
10 July – 13 July 2024
OPEN TO: Bands
Small but mighty, this multi-award-winning festival is one of the rock highlights of the year. The Gaslight Anthem, Manchester Orchestra, Kids in Glass Houses, Boston Manor, and many more have been announced for 2000 Trees 2024.
By simply filling out the application form on the 2000 Trees website, you and your band could perform at this eagerly anticipated upcoming music festival.
9. Worcester Music Festival
Worcester, England
13 September – 15 September 2024
OPEN TO: Bands
Worcester Music Festival, a September highlight in the city centre, showcases emerging bands across more than 20 venues. This volunteer-run, non-profit event offers around 250 bands the chance to perform over three days, all within walking distance in the heart of Worcester. Entry to the festival is free, emphasising its community and charity focus.
New bands can apply to join the line-up by applying via a dedicated form on the festival's website. However, gigs are unpaid to maximise the event's fundraising efforts. Worcester Music Festival offers a unique opportunity to cut your teeth as a performing band on a smaller stage and contribute to a good cause.
10. Equinox
Chalk Farm, Lincolnshire, England
19 September – 23 September 2024
OPEN TO: Bands, DJs & Live Performers
Equinox Festival, the season's ultimate party, combines live music, dance, and a vibrant atmosphere in a unique celebration. Featuring the Crispy Disco Stage, Soundscape Stage, and The Big Dub Pub, plus dance tents Sunrise, Lunar, and Half Moon Hotel, it caters to a wide range of musical tastes.
Artists, bands, and DJs interested in joining this eclectic mix can apply through the festival's dedicated submission form. This is your chance to be part of a community-driven festival that celebrates music, arts, and crafts with their dedicated following each year.
11. The Great Escape
Brighton, England
10 May – 13 May 2024
OPEN TO: Live artists, collectives & DJs
Unanimously considered the most important festival in the UK for new bands, artists, DJs and MCs, The Great Escape is attended by the most influential names in the music industry.
As well as being the best annual networking opportunity, The Great Escape is also a seriously good party. Apply to be in with a chance of joining over 500 emerging artists at Brighton's most famous music festival.
12. End Of The Road Festival
Larmer Tree Gardens, Dorset, England
29 August – 1 September 2024
OPEN TO: Artists & bands
Arguably the best medium sized festivals doing it, End Of The Road’s lineup is reliably peppered with acts about to blow up every year. Focusing on the coolest indie live acts, with a small but interesting electronic music offering, each year End Of The Road garners rave reviews, with good reason. Read our End Of The Road 2022 review if you’re still unsure.
Apply today and you might just find yourself opening a stage at this idyllic Dorset music festival, come August.
13. Cross the Tracks
Brockwell Park, London
Sunday 26th May, 2024
OPEN TO: DJs
Cross the Tracks have been one of the UKs leading indie festivals since it’s inception. Hosted in Brockwell Park every year, the festival has showcased some of the best artists in the world, as well as the cutting edge musical talent from across the country. This years line up includes Erykah Badu, BADBADNOTGOOD and En Vogue.
Cross The Tracks is perfect for anyone wanting experience at Day Festivals, playing amongst some of the greatest jazz, electronic and soul artists the world has to offer. With it’s laidback vibe and community focus, Cross The Tracks is a perfect festival set to add to your EPK.
14. City Splash
Brockwell Park, London
27th May 2024
OPEN TO: DJs
City Splash in Brockwell Park is dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Black British culture through music, dance and food. The festivals line up celebrates Black British music, featuring Garage, Jungle, Afrobeat, Dancehall and more artists from across the city and the world.
With headliners Dancehall/reeggae legends Beenie Man, Busy Signal and heavyweight Capleton with multi-genre talent Shenseea, your set needs to reflect the sound of City Splash this year.
15. Forbidden Forest
Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, Midlands
30th May - 2nd June 2024
OPEN TO: DJs
Forbidden Forest is set deep in the forest of the midlands, with underground sounds from some of the worlds biggest electronic artists and brands. The festival has been gaining in popularity as one of the best UK festivals on offer right now, with this years selling out in 36 hours.
Expect incredible sets this year from headliners Carl Cox, Shy FX, Andy C and Gorgon City. The 22,000 strong festival calls for a DJ with high energy sets and underground taste to compliment its immersive sets and incredible production value.
16. Tramlines
Hillsborough Park, Sheffield
26th - 28th July 2024
OPEN TO: Bands/Solo Artists
Tramlines is back this year in Sheffield with a huge celebration of music, art, comedy and more. The festival is now in its 16th year at its iconic Hillsborough Park location - providing Sheffield and Yorkshire some of the best UK bands, musicians, comedians and artists from across genre spectrums.
We’re looking for a Pirate Resident to take a slot on their ‘Library’ stage - perfect for newcomers that showcases emerging UK talent. Are you a solo artist, band, musician or collective that can sit amongst headliners Paolo Nutini, Jamie T, Snow Patrol and Holly Humberstone? Be sure to apply below to get your big festival break.
17. WIDE AWAKE
Brockwell Park, London
Saturday 25th May, 2024
OPEN TO: DJs
Wide Awake, the scuzzy indie counterpart to Cross The Tracks, happens in London’s Brockwell Park on 25th May 2024. With juggernaut headliner’s King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard and dreamy shoegaze legends Slowdive plus loads of Electronic offerings from the lights of MODESELEKTOR, OK Williams and more. This year you could be on the lineup with some iconic acts to say the least.
This opp is perfect for DJs looking to share their left-field electronic offering. The festival also partners with The Shacklewell Arms, KEXP and Moth Club so to be there is to network with some of the best venues, radio stations and managers in the city.
Don't see what you're looking for? These aren't your only opportunities to perform at festivals this year.
As more festival applications for 2024 in the UK open, they'll be added to this list. Some of the largest music festivals run talent competitions each year, so make sure to keep an ear to the ground (or an eye here).
Lastly, if there's somewhere you're dying to play, and they don't seem to be looking for artists at all, try visiting their website, find a contact form or email address, and reach out. The worst thing that could happen is you won't get replied to. The best thing that could happen is you end up performing at your favourite music festival in 2024. Sound worth the risk?
