The UK Festival Awards return on 2nd December 2025 at DIECAST Manchester, with Ticketmaster confirmed as Headline Sponsor. The event remains a key moment in the industry calendar, bringing together organisers, agencies, production teams and partners to recognise excellence across more than 20 categories.
Awards span from Festival of the Year (Small, Medium and Large) and Artist Agency of the Year, through to the Sarah Nulty Community Impact Award and Industry Recognition Award. This year’s categories also highlight sustainability initiatives and the role of technology in shaping the future of live events.
Alongside the awards, the evening will feature a drinks reception and banquet-style dinner, offering valuable time for industry networking.
Tim Goom, Client Development Director – Music, Ticketmaster said “Festivals play a central role in the live music industry, increasingly reflecting how fans want to experience events. Our State of Play research highlights trends such as family attendance, sustainability, and inclusivity. The UK Festival Awards provide an opportunity to recognise these achievements and the innovation shaping the sector’s future.”
Fran Begaj, Commercial Director, Festival Insights said “The UK Festival Awards have always been about more than just trophies – they’re about shining a spotlight on the people, ideas and innovations that push our industry forward. With Ticketmaster as our Headline Sponsor, we’re excited to deliver an unforgettable night that both celebrates and inspires the festival community.”
Festivals in 2025: A Changing Landscape
Ticketmaster’s recent State of Play: Festivals 2025 report highlights a sector in transition:
- Festivals as family holidays: 73% of parents said festivals now outshine traditional family holidays, with nearly half considering them a replacement for a summer trip abroad.
- Multigenerational attendance: Over half of UK festival-goers attend with family, or say they want to in future.
- Sustainability and values: Audiences are placing greater importance on environmentally conscious practices and social responsibility when choosing which events to attend.
- Experience as a driver: Comfort, amenities and on-site experience are influencing purchasing decisions as much as line-ups.
These insights reflect a broadening of the festival market and underline the importance of adapting business models, programming and fan experiences to meet evolving expectations.
Entries for the UK Festival Awards 2025 are open now and close on 16th September 2025.
