The First Glastonbury Festival

On September 19, 1970, the first Glastonbury Festival took place at Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset, England. Originally called the Pilton Pop, Blues & Folk Festival, it was organized by farmer Michael Eavis and drew about 1,500 attendees. The event featured T. Rex as the headline act and marked the beginning of what would become one of the world's largest music festivals.

Historical Context

By 1970, the outdoor music festival had become a significant cultural phenomenon in Britain, following the success of events like the 1969 Isle of Wight Festival and the Woodstock festival in the United States. These gatherings reflected the counterculture movement's emphasis on peace, love, and community, often featuring rock, folk, and blues music. In this climate, Michael Eavis, a dairy farmer from Somerset, was inspired to organize a small festival after attending the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive Music earlier that year. He envisioned a modest event that would bring together local residents and music fans in a rural setting.

What Happened

The festival was held on September 19, 1970, at Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset. Billed as the Pilton Pop, Blues & Folk Festival, it attracted approximately 1,500 people. The headline act was the British rock band T. Rex, then known for their folk-rock sound and fronted by Marc Bolan. Other performers included Stackridge, a local band, and Al Stewart. Admission was £1, which included free milk from the farm. The event ran smoothly and concluded without major incidents, setting a precedent for future gatherings at the site.

Significance & Legacy

Although small in scale, the 1970 festival laid the foundation for the Glastonbury Festival, which has since grown into one of the most famous and largest music festivals in the world. It established Worthy Farm as a permanent venue and demonstrated the viability of hosting large-scale cultural events in rural areas. Over the decades, Glastonbury has hosted countless legendary artists and become a cornerstone of British music culture, influencing festival organization globally.

Conclusion

The first Glastonbury Festival in 1970 was a modest beginning that would eventually evolve into a cultural institution. From its humble origins with 1,500 attendees and a £1 ticket, it has expanded to host over 200,000 people annually, featuring diverse musical acts and attracting global attention. The event's enduring success is a testament to the vision of Michael Eavis and the enduring appeal of live music in a communal setting.