Last weekend, the Y Not Festival drew festival-goers from all over to the heart of the Peak District, eager to experience its impressive lineup and vibrant atmosphere. The festival offered something for everyone, with food stalls, bars, kid-friendly activities, and even an all-day cinema screening films of all genres. As night fell, classic festival rides lit up the arena, and events like the paint fight and fancy dress day added an extra layer of excitement.
Although the weekend started with sunny skies, day two brought a storm with heavy rain and strong winds. Despite the challenging weather—which even caused the closure of the VIP area for half a day—festival spirits remained high. Many artists expressed their gratitude to fans for enduring the weather, with the message: “We won’t let a little rain ruin our fun, right?”
Due to safety concerns, some main stage performances were relocated to The Quarry—a tented stage that offered both shelter from the rain and an unbeatable atmosphere. Notably, Superfood delivered a show-stopping performance, proving that bad weather was no match for their energy. Tom Grennan was another clear fan favorite at The Quarry, electrifying the audience with his onstage presence and confidence. Even those unfamiliar with his music likely left as newfound fans.
One of the most surprising and talked-about acts of the weekend was Sam Fender. Though relatively unknown to some in the audience, Fender’s powerful vocals and impressive range left everyone in awe. “You don’t know who I am anyway,” he joked, but by the end of his set, it was clear that he had made a lasting impression.
The main stage also boasted an incredible lineup, with headliners The Libertines, Catfish and the Bottlemen, and Jamiroquai drawing huge crowds. Despite the rain cutting Jamiroquai’s set short, fans were treated to unforgettable performances. Acts like The Wombats, who brought dancers dressed as wombats onstage, and Tom Walker, whose powerful voice captivated the audience, further elevated the festival experience. Rock legends Manic Street Preachers and Kaiser Chiefs kept the energy high with their dynamic performances, ensuring that fans were thoroughly entertained.
The Allotment Stage, hosted by This Feeling, became a hidden gem of the festival. Featuring up-and-coming talent, it quickly filled with curious festival-goers. Each act was unique, and the stage served as a launching pad for new fans to discover the next wave of musical talent.
In the end, Y Not Festival 2018 was a resounding success. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the festival’s organisation, and the dedication of both fans and artists, made it an unforgettable weekend. Would I return? Absolutely—though next time, I’ll come prepared with a stronger tent!
