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Festival Ready: A Neurodivergent-Friendly Guide to Festivals

29 May 2025

Festivals can provide an incredible experience; however, for neurodivergent individuals, they may also present additional challenges.

That’s why, together with Dan Bird (Star of Season 3 of Traitors and author of Go Neuro Way), we’ve created a simple, supportive guide designed to help young neurodivergent people feel more confident, comfortable, and prepared when heading to a festival.

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been before and found it overwhelming, this guide is full of practical tips—written by and for neurodivergent people. From what to pack and how to find quiet spaces, to sensory-friendly tools and ways to avoid burnout, this isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what works for you.

You don’t need to change yourself to fit the festival. You get to shape the experience around your own needs.

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What’s Inside the Guide?

  • Tips for planning ahead, picking the right campsite, and connecting with others

  • Advice on what to pack for comfort, calm, and sensory support

  • Guidance on how to take breaks, manage energy, and avoid overwhelm

  • Encouragement to rest, regulate and recharge—without guilt

  • Bonus: How to get involved and support neurodivergent young people volunteering at Glastonbury Festival

Why We Made This Guide?

At Petty Pool, we work closely with young neurodivergent people to build confidence and independence through meaningful experiences. And this year, we’re proud to say that some of our learners will be volunteering at Glastonbury Festival 2025, thanks to an exciting partnership with WaterAid.

This is more than just a trip to a festival—it’s a chance for them to grow, gain real-world experience, and be part of something extraordinary.

Help Us Make It Happen

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend, family member, or festival buddy who might benefit too.

Support our learners on their Glastonbury journey:

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With your help, we can continue creating inclusive opportunities for neurodivergent young people, and help make festivals feel like a place for everyone.

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