There’s no doubt that we’re all missing one thing, scorching in the sun, going to bed with a headache, wondering if that’s slightly warm beer that’s been thrown over your jacket or the contents of an acquaintance’s bowels – but still waking up and doing it all again the next day regardless. We’re all fed up with indefinite reschedules, and the classic ‘do you want a refund or keep your tickets for next year (which probably won’t happen anyway)’, but finally the time has come. And yes, it is long overdue, no thanks to our ever-mutating frenemy Covid-19.
Long gone are the days where we can share a drink with a stranger, openly cough without a care in the world, or even barge past an unwitting music lover to get to the front of the stage. But hopefully, this Summer will see the return of waving arms, screaming fans, over-zealous performers, and wickedly overpriced booze.
Now comes the real problem, the question lingering in all our minds, which Festival to choose? With the abundance of rescheduling, postponing, and everything in between, most festivals (unfortunately) overlap, meaning it will be almost impossible to go to all your favourites – and that’s where we come in.
To ease your decision-making process and give you a nudge in the right direction, us over at Dead Head Merch are here to give the low down of all the latest info on the best picks of this Summer’s numerous shows and parties, and it’s gonna be a good one…
When? August 11-15th
Where? Derbyshire
Headliners: Devin Townsend, Kreator, Judas Priest
Known for its juxtapose relaxed atmosphere and well-run family feel, Bloodstock is one not to look over this summer. With its ever-expanding line-up and plethora of the best metal and rock bands, it’ll be a shame if this doesn’t go ahead.
9/10
When? August 27-29th
Where? Leeds / Reading
Headliners: Stormzy, Liam Gallagher, Queens Of The Stone Age
Tickets: Reading and Leeds Festival 2021
A firm, fan favourite every year, the pair of annual shows take place simultaneously over a sun-soaked weekend. The love of R&L comes from their ability to cater to every genre, hosting rock legends such as Liam Gallagher and British rapper Stormzy, to putting on a show for all the indie rock lovers out there with the likes of Catfish and the Bottlemen, Sports Team and Beabadoobee.
7/10.
When? June 2-5th
Where? Galicia, Spain
Headliners: Deftones, System of a Down, Korn
Tickets: SOLD OUT
Taking place in sunny Spain, Resurrection Fest allows the pleasure of seeing the best heavy metal and punk bands all in one place. Emerging as one of the most important music festivals in Spain, it is no wonder so many people attend with a history of performers such as theirs. Think Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Sabaton, Bullet For My Valentine and you have the recipe for an unforgettable weekend of music.
6/10.
When? June 9-12th
Where? Sweden
Headliners: Guns n Roses, Megadeth, In Flames
Another of the best festivals Europe has to offer, Sweden Rock is hailed for its diversity across the metal and rock genres. 30 next year, Sweden Rock has seemingly cemented the ability to snag some of the best artists for their line-up, known for their roaring line-ups and electrifying shows, you’d be a fool to pass up the opportunity to attend.
8/10
When? July 23-25th
Where? Wales
Headliners: Anthrax, Europe
Tickets: Steelhouse Festival Tickets
Set against the backdrop of the hilly Welsh countryside, this year’s line-up looks to be the festivals biggest to date. This family-friendly independent rock festival is held annually and since its inception has hosted a whole hoax of rock legends such as The Darkness. Despite being relatively small compared to the rest of the fun-filled fetes on this list, Steelhouse has well earned its place.
6/10
When? June 16-19th
Where? Copenhagen
Headliners: KISS, Judas Priest, Korn
Only being a decade old, Copenhell takes its place as one of the newest festivals amongst its cohort. A dazzling achievement is the festivals’ ability to host the most prestigious metal and rock acts, despite being only recently established. Its extensive lineup boasts a range of bands old and new – offering something for everyone.
7/10.
When? July 9-11th
Where? London
Headliners: Duran Duran, Pearl Jam, Pixies
Hosted in the heart of central London, BST boasts its ability to host some of the biggest names in music. Usually, a ten-day event, this year the festival is cut down to three days, two of those hosted by Peal Jam with varying supports. With headliners such as these, it will be a weekend not to miss.
7/10.
When? September 2021 (to be confirmed)
Where? Somerset
Headliners: To be confirmed
Yet to be confirmed, but all too good to miss of our list. With notable alumni such as David Bowie, The Cure and The Kinks, there is no doubt that Glastonbury will put on the biggest festival of the year – and it’s long overdue. Despite cancellations, the organisers are hoping a two-day festival can go ahead in September – pandemic pending of course.
What we’re wearing this festival season:
And now comes the second tricky part. If like me, you have a wardrobe with every item of clothing you could possibly fathom, yet still have nothing to wear (it’s a daily struggle), then you might benefit from our Dead Head Style guide for Festival Season 2021…
Mens:
Womens: