The UK festival scene has seen 36 cancellations so far in 2026, a figure that represents the lowest annual total since the Covid pandemic. This number is also less than half the festivals cancelled in 2024.
Festival promoter James Scarlett, known for 2000 Trees and ArcTanGent, discussed the various hurdles faced by festival organisers. These can include issues such as licensing, absent bands, and extreme weather events.
Scarlett shared insights into hypothetical disaster scenarios, including bands demanding more money, norovirus outbreaks, beer shortages, activist sit-ins, and major storm disruptions. He noted that his festival, 2000 Trees, experienced a beer shortage on a Saturday evening last year.
ArcTanGent, celebrating its 12th edition next week, is fully sold out. Scarlett's 2000 Trees festival had its 19th outing last month.