Y Not Festival 2025

Y Not Festival is an independent music festival held annually in Derbyshire, England. The festival typically takes place in late July or early August and has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the UK’s popular medium-sized music festivals.

The festival began in 2005 as a small gathering of around 500 people in Derbyshire. What started as an informal party among friends in a local pub garden has evolved into a significant event that now attracts thousands of attendees and features major musical acts.

Y Not is primarily known for showcasing both established and emerging indie rock and alternative music artists. The festival typically features multiple stages, including the Main Stage, Big Gin Stage, and various smaller venues spread across the festival grounds. Over the years, it has hosted notable performers such as Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Elbow, Wolf Alice, Two Door Cinema Club, and many other prominent British and international acts.

The festival is held in the scenic Peak District, specifically at Pikehall in Derbyshire, offering attendees a beautiful rural setting. Besides music, Y Not features a variety of entertainment options including comedy acts, silent discos, cinema screenings, and various food and drink vendors. The festival is known for maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere despite its growth.

Y Not has won several awards throughout its history, including “Best Medium Festival” at the UK Festival Awards, recognizing its successful balance of growth while maintaining its independent spirit and community feel.

The festival offers various ticket options, including weekend camping passes and day tickets. It’s particularly popular with young music fans and families, with dedicated family camping areas and activities for children.

Despite facing challenges common to UK festivals, such as weather conditions (notably in 2017 when extreme weather forced partial cancellation) and the impact of COVID-19 in recent years, Y Not has maintained its position as a significant event in the British festival calendar. The festival continues to evolve while staying true to its independent roots and commitment to providing a platform for both established and emerging musical talent.