Are US and UK festivals that different?

Partying in the UK and US has always had its differences, from the age restrictions on drinking to the general nature of Brits versus Americans. When it comes to festivals, the differences between these two nations can be even more apparent.

In general, there are a few key differences between the UK and US festivals, their clientele and the way people behave, which are often highlighted in hilarious memes. But are US and UK festivals that different? Here are some points to consider…

BRITISH SILLINESS
One thing that Brits do way better than Americans is silliness. This can range from fancy dress and toilet humour, to straight-up weirdness and eccentricity. The famed British sense of humour – dry, witty, silly, self-deprecating and all-out strange – is foundational to many of its festivals and their communities.

THE WEATHER
Besides the odd occasion where there’s a freak downpour (like Burning Man 2023 or the Secret Garden Party flood), US summer festivals generally benefit from way better weather. Sunshine, high temperatures and a feel-good atmosphere all around. In Britain, it could be the height of summer and you might still end up shivering and damp, wearing a disposable poncho in the middle of a muddy field.

CAMPING
Your average British festival-goer is typically more than comfortable with spending four days in a two-man tent, sleeping head to foot with a friend. Meanwhile, in the States, RVs and camper vans are pretty much the norm. So, while UK festival campsites are likely to be filled with cheap tents, the US has parking areas full of what are essentially mobile homes.

FASHION VS PRACTICALITY
In Britain, you have to be prepared for any weather. So, while you might get dressed up to look your best, it will always be with a practical, ready-for-anything edge. Meanwhile, in the US, events like Coachella and Lollapalooza are full of Instagram-ready fits that epitomise the image-conscious nature of festival-goers.