Glastonbury Festival is the world’s largest greenfield music festival, held every few years at Worthy Farm in Pilton, Somerset, England. It brings together music, arts, culture, and sustainability for around 200,000 people. Many wonder: who actually owns Glastonbury? Let’s explore in clear and easy way.
Glastonbury Ownership Details
| Person / Entity | Role / Details |
|---|---|
| Sir Michael Eavis | Founder, director, knighted in 2024, still guides the festival |
| Emily Eavis | Co‑organiser, director, taking over daily operations and future ownership |
| Glastonbury Festivals Ltd | Company that owns and runs the festival, directed by Michael & Emily Eavis |
| Festival Republic | Former partner from 2002 to 2012, now no longer involved |
Founder and Festival Visionary – Sir Michael Eavis
The festival was started by Michael Eavis, an English dairy farmer, back in 1970, after being inspired by a music event nearby. As of 2024, he remains a director of Glastonbury Festivals Ltd, the company that runs the event. In recognition of his contribution, he was knighted by the Princess Royal in early 2024 for services to music and charity.
Co‑Organizer & Future Leader – Emily Eavis
Michael’s daughter, Emily Eavis, has taken on increasing responsibility and now co‑organises the festival. In 2024, Michael transferred most of his shares to Emily as part of planning for the future. She continues to handle day-to-day organisation, including selecting artists and managing logistics.
Festival Organization and Ownership
- The festival is managed by Glastonbury Festivals Ltd, originally set up in 1992. Michael and Emily Eavis are both listed as directors.
- Festival Republic (Live Nation + MCD) previously held a 40% share in the company to handle logistics and security, from 2002 to 2012.
- Since 2012, the festival has been independent and wholly owned by the Eavis family.
Profit and Charity Contributions
Although a major event, Glastonbury is run as a charitable and community-focused festival:
- Pre-tax profits doubled to £5.9 million in the year ending March 2024.
- Of those profits, £5.2 million was donated to charities like Oxfam, Greenpeace, and WaterAid.
- Its profits support local causes, including restoration projects on Worthy Farm.
Festival Capacity and Impact
- The festival attracts about 210,000 attendees each time.
- In 2025, headliners included Olivia Rodrigo, Rod Stewart, and Neil Young, as Festival founders welcomed fans.
- It raises significant support for local farmers and businesses—around £168 million generated in 2024.
FAQs
Q. Who owns Glastonbury Festival?
It is owned and run by the Eavis family—Sir Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily—through Glastonbury Festivals Ltd.
Q. Did Live Nation ever own part of the festival?
Yes, Live Nation and MCD (as part of Festival Republic) held 40% ownership from 2002 to 2012, but since then, the festival has been fully family‑owned.
Q. Will Emily Eavis take over completely?
Yes, Emily is gradually taking full control, having received most of Michael’s share in 2024 and leading daily operations.
Q. Is Glastonbury a charity?
While not a registered charity, the festival profits are donated to charity and local causes, making it strongly community-focused.
Q. How much profit did the festival make in 2024?
It made £5.9 million pre-tax, with £5.2 million donated to charities.