About
- Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is one of the UK’s most iconic music festivals, held annually in Reading, England.
- Known for hosting both legendary acts and emerging artists, spanning genres like rock, punk, metal, and pop.
- Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is famous for its energetic atmosphere, camping experience, and long-standing music culture.
- It has a twin festival in Leeds, known as Pepsi MAX presents Leeds Festival, sharing many headline acts.
The Essentials
Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival 2026 will take place on Thursday, 27th – Sunday, 30th August 2026 at Richfield Avenue in Reading. Weekend Early Entry Ticket holders can access the campsites from Wednesday 26th August.
Campsites:
- Weekend + Early Entry Ticket holders: 18:00 Wednesday 26th August 2026
- Weekend Ticket holders: 08:00 Thursday 27st August 2026
- Campsite is open 24 Hours, individuals can arrive at any time after the above
- Campsite closes at midday Monday 31st August 2026.
If you are leaving and returning after 8pm on Sunday evening, don’t forget to get your hand stamped on your way out to be able to return later on.
Arena:
- Friday 28th – Sunday 30th August 2026
- Opening time: 11:00
- With a day ticket, once you leave you cannot re-enter the arena.
- With a weekend ticket, you can leave and re-enter the arena and campsites.
We welcome all ages to the festival. However, there are entry restrictions for under 16s and we do advise not bringing young children. Anyone 15 and under must be accompanied by a ticket holder over 18 years old at all times. Children under 13 years are admitted free. ID may be required upon entry to the event.
For information purposes only, age checks will also be carried out on the entrance gates.
Please note our policy has changed from Challenge 21 > Challenge 25.
Please bring ID if you look under 25 years old and remember that legally there is no automatic right to be served alcohol. Service is always at the discretion of the licensee for whatever reason they decide, and the licensee is under no obligation to explain the reason.
The following forms of identification are accepted:
- A Passport (Not a photocopy)
- Full Driving Licence or Provisional Licence
- A Proof of Age Card bearing a PASS hologram
- A Ministry of Defence identity card
- A National identity card issued by an EU member state
- Please bring the original document as you won’t be able to use a photocopied version. If you don’t have any of these, or don’t want to lose valuable documents on site, we suggest that you apply for a PASS approved ID, some of which are free to get.
We do not accept any parental or supervisory duty of care or liability for any under 18’s on site.
Young Children
Whilst we do allow under 13s to attend for free, we do suggest that this event is not suitable for young children. If you do want to bring children along we advise camping in the White Campsite which is expected to be our quietest campsite.
On entering the event, children will be given Tyvek wristbands which have space for you to write your telephone number (as a parent or guardian). We can use this as a primary contact to reunite you. Replacements can be picked up at the Wellbeing Tent.
We operate a Challenge 25 policy. The following forms of identification are accepted:
- A Passport (Not a photocopy)
- Full Driving Licence or Provisional Licence
- A Proof of Age Card bearing a PASS hologram
- A Ministry of Defence identity card
- A National identity card issued by an EU member state
Please note: This may vary with certain establishments/traders onsite. Please be aware that bar staff always reserve the right to ask for proof of age if you look under 25.
Make sure you download the official festival app to keep up to date with set times, announcements, maps and special offers.
There will be no receipts issued for any confiscated/surrendered items and they will not be available to collect after the festival.
You may be subject to more enhanced searches of bags and personal belongings. We request that you cooperate with any security requests and searches. Please pack light!
Please note, campfires and disposable BBQs are banned from both the campsite and the arena. For detailed guidance on camping stoves and fuels please see here.
This list is subject to change:
Stove fuel limited to a maximum of 1L per stove and a maximum of x4 gas canisters of 250mls or less per stove.
Any liquid fuel such as Meth Stoves (with 1L methylated fuel/spirit max) and/or Trangia Stoves (1L Trangia fuel max) should be in an appropriate approved container to ensure that it can be used and stored safely.
Prohibited Items
- It is now illegal to be in possession of a firework, flare, or smoke bomb at a music festival. Do not bring these items to site.
- Professional cameras and video / audio equipment are strictly prohibited.
Accessibility Customers – Prohibited Item Policy
Food:
All customers are permitted to bring a small amount of food for personal consumption into the arena.
Accessibility customers are permitted to bring additional food in excess of the usual amount into the arena.
(This increased allowance applies to accessibility customers only and not to essential companions or friends and family).
Drink:
All customers are permitted to bring a sealed, unopened 500ml bottle of water or soft drink into the arena.
Accessibility customers are permitted to bring one sealed, unopened bottle up to 1.5l of water or soft drink into the arena.
(This increased allowance applies to accessibility customers only and not to essential companions or friends and family).
Bag Restrictions in the Arena:
For security reasons, we ordinarily only permit customers to bring a small bag (A4 size) into the arena.
Accessibility customers are entitled to bring a bigger bag into the arena.
(One bag only per accessibility customer).
Festival Republic do not condone any usage of drugs at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival. Drug Detection Dogs will be operating throughout the event. Please don’t be alarmed; they are here for the safety of everyone.

Portable chargers will once again be provided by 3Charging with multiple locations across the arena and campsite. 3Charging is available to everyone, and Three customers get half-price charging via the Three+ rewards app. Just show the app on-site to claim your discount.

Entry into campsites:
We do not have bag size restrictions for first time entry although, we advise packing as light as possible. Please take note of our full list of prohibited items (in ‘What You Can and Can’t Bring’ category above).
Arena:
We strongly advise you do not bring a bag into the Arena as there will be long queues while all bags are searched. If you do wish to bring a bag, please ensure that it is no bigger than A4 sized 8.27”x11.69”. There is a limit to one A4 sized bag per person permitted into the Arena.You and your bag maybe subject to a search upon entering the campsites and arena. CCTV is in operation throughout the festival site. Please be patient if there are longer queues than normal. We request that you cooperate with any security requests and searches.

You and your bag maybe subject to a search upon entering the campsites and arena. CCTV is in operation throughout the festival site. Please be patient if there are longer queues than normal. We request that you cooperate with any security requests and searches.
At Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and safe. We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment, discrimination, or violence. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Harassment or abuse based on race, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender presentation, sexual orientation, age, body size, disability, appearance, religion, citizenship, or any other personal characteristic.
- Sexual harassment, unwanted physical contact, or threatening behaviour.
- Any act of violence, intimidation, or aggressive behaviour.
- Anyone failing to comply will be evicted from the festival.
We encourage everyone to look out for each other and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. If you see or experience inappropriate behaviour, report it to festival staff, security, or your nearest AIR Hub.
Let’s work together to ensure Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is a space where everyone can enjoy themselves in an environment built on respect and inclusion.
We hope it doesn’t, but if your phone goes for a walk over the weekend, make the situation the best you can by writing down your IMEI number for your phone – on a piece of paper, not in your phone’s notes! – and, if you have an iPhone, install the Find My iPhone app in advance. This will really improve the chances of us reuniting you with your phone.
Not sure how to find your IMEI number? It depends on your phone, but Google has a long list of helpful articles to point you in the right direction.
If you have a lost property enquiry after the event please contact Readinglostproperty@wavesltd.org or by post to: WAVES lost Property, 13 Orchard Close Stourport on Severn. Worcestershire DY139BQ
Please Note – lost property can be retrieved within 28 days post show.
The Event is produced for the enjoyment of all those persons who attend. Any person who disrupts the Event under any of the below sections will leave themselves liable for eviction from the Event. The decision as to the eviction will be at the discretion of the Eviction Team / Security Coordinator following advice from security personnel. Persons will be liable for eviction under the following circumstances:
Reasons for eviction:
- Entering or being inside the Event without a ticket or relevant pass/ wristband;
- Unacceptable, disruptive or anti-social behaviour; *
- Having been arrested or cautioned in connection with a criminal offence, pending or post-hand-over to the Police.
*Unacceptable behaviour that can lead to eviction includes but is not limited to:
- illegal activity;
- breaching the terms and conditions of entry;
- failing to submit to a search as a condition of entry:
- offensive behaviour;
- throwing hard objects in the direction of people;
- encouraging others to behave badly by incitement;
- preventing security or emergency responders reacting to a situation; committing a criminal offence but not arrested by the police; in possession of unlawful drugs;
- unofficially selling alcohol, tobacco, counterfeit goods or any other unauthorized goods;
- ticket scalping;
- any other behaviour that leaves the Event open to prosecution or is not conducive to maintaining a safe Event.
All evictees will be processed via Eviction Team / Security Coordinator, and their wristbands / tickets will be removed to prevent them from re-entering the Event.
All persons presented for eviction by security will be interviewed by the Eviction Team / Security Coordinator who are independent of security, and their details will be recorded in a database with their full personal details, a photograph, date and time and the reasons for eviction.
All evictees will be able to make a free telephone call if they do not have a cell phone to contact members of their group and/or family.
Evictees will need to phone a friend at the Event to collect their belongings before their eviction as they will not be permitted back into the Event to find them. We will not be responsible for ensuring that they leave the Event with their belongings.
Evictees will receive a letter detailing the eviction process and details of onward transportation.
Evictees are normally evicted from the Event via the public transport hub/taxi rank.
Evictees are liable to receive a life time ban from purchasing tickets or working/volunteering for any LNE Events.
Tickets
We welcome all ages to the festival. However, there are entry restrictions for under 16s and we do advise not bringing young children. Anyone 15 and under must be accompanied by a ticket holder over 18 years old at all times. Children under 13 years are admitted free. ID may be required upon entry to the event.
For information purposes only, age checks will also be carried out on the entrance gates.
Please note our policy has changed from Challenge 21 > Challenge 25.
Please bring ID if you look under 25 years old and remember that legally there is no automatic right to be served alcohol. Service is always at the discretion of the licensee for whatever reason they decide, and the licensee is under no obligation to explain the reason.
The following forms of identification are accepted:
- A Passport (Not a photocopy)
- Full Driving Licence or Provisional Licence
- A Proof of Age Card bearing a PASS hologram
- A Ministry of Defence identity card
- A National identity card issued by an EU member state
- Please bring the original document as you won’t be able to use a photocopied version. If you don’t have any of these, or don’t want to lose valuable documents on site, we suggest that you apply for a PASS approved ID, some of which are free to get.
We do not accept any parental or supervisory duty of care or liability for any under 18’s on site.
Young Children
Whilst we do allow under 13s to attend for free, we do suggest that this event is not suitable for young children. If you do want to bring children along we advise camping in the White Campsite which is expected to be our quietest campsite.
On entering the event, children will be given Tyvek wristbands which have space for you to write your telephone number (as a parent or guardian). We can use this as a primary contact to reunite you. Replacements can be picked up at the Wellbeing Tent.
Weekend tickets allow access to campsites from Thursday, 27th August 2026 until close of campsite on Monday, 31st August 2026 – and access to the Arena on all show days. Weekend Tickets will be swapped for a wristband that allows for unlimited re-entry to and from the site for the weekend wristband holder
There will be no individual early entry passes sold for Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival 2025 and you will not be able to upgrade at a later date.
If you want early access to the festival, you must purchase the “Weekend Ticket Plus Early Entry Pass 2026” ticket type. There will be no refunds given for this ticket type if you arrive later than 8am on Thursday 27/08/26.
All tickets must be exchanged for a wristband on first entry. Wristbands are not transferable between people and are void if cut, removed or tampered with.
Want to upgrade your ticket from Day to Weekend? Fill out the form below
Please complete this form only if you have purchased tickets for Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival and wish to exchange or upgrade your ticket(s) to a different day or from single-day to weekend tickets.
TRUSTED TICKET PARTNERS
The only authorised sellers for Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival are:
- Ticketmaster (the primary agent)
- No other agents are authorised to sell and any listing on unauthorised site cannot be guaranteed to gain entry to the events.
Please click here for a list of unauthorised ticket agents. We recommend you do not use any of these sites to purchase Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival tickets.
Beware of unauthorised ticket agencies and listings (including Viagogo, TicketSwap, Tixel, Stubhub, eBay, Gumtree and social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram or TikTok). Action Fraud have some good advice on how to spot a fraudulent ticket and how to report it. We do not sell tickets at the event site and do not buy from ticket touts as you are unlikely to get in with whatever they sell you.
If you have been the victim of a ticket scam please report your case to Action Fraud.
We have compiled a guide to avoiding touts and unauthorised websites and agents. We recommend you DO NOT BUY from these sites. We the promoter (Festival Republic) have not supplied any of these sites with any festival tickets and cannot guarantee the authenticity of any tickets they may be offering for sale. For more information see our guide here.
If you would like confirmation that a website is authorised or not, please reach out to info@readingfestival.com.
We monitor the internet and do what we can to prevent fraudulent activity but the best way to prevent fraud is to not risk buying from unauthorised sources.
For more information and advice on unauthorised ticket agents please click here.
Accommodation
Buy a durable tent that you can use again each year, it will save you money in the long run – Check out our ultimate Tent Guide for more information.
Only bring what you can take home with you. When packing ready for the festival weekend, remember to pack wisely and only bring essential items. Check out our essential packing guide.
Your weekend ticket includes camping in The Fields (Main Camp) – just turn up and pick your spot.
There is no requirement to camp if you would prefer to stay off site and travel in each day.
You are unable to camp with a day ticket.
At Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and safe. We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment, discrimination, or violence.
Campsites:
- Weekend + Early Entry Ticket holders: 18:00 Wednesday 26th August 2026
- Weekend Ticket holders: 08:00 Thursday 27st August 2026
Campsite is open 24 Hours, individuals can arrive at any time after the above
Campsite closes at midday Monday 31st August 2026.
If you are leaving and returning after 8pm on Sunday evening, don’t forget to get your hand stamped on your way out to be able to return later on.
Secure your campsite bookings soon, more info coming later.
Campervan and Caravan Passes for 2026 are available here.
Every occupant of the campervan must also be in the possession of a valid Weekend Ticket to the event.
The campervan mirror hanger (your pass) must be displayed inside your vehicle windscreen before you arrive on site, so that we are able to direct you to the right place.
No vehicles are permitted in the standard campsites and only towing vehicles for caravans are permitted in the campervan fields.
You will not be permitted to sleep in the standard car parks.
There are no electrical hook-ups for campervans anywhere on site.
Campervans cannot be parked with tents in the campsite. They will be located in one end of the campsite to comply with non-negotiable licence conditions.
If you are not clear if your vehicle constitutes a campervan, see our terms and conditions.
Campervan Size Restrictions
Due to space restrictions at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, White Campervan passes must be booked in advance and are not available to purchase on the gate.
Delivery fees will apply for campervan passes to receive your mirror hanger by post. You will need to be in possession of this mirror hanger BEFORE departing for the festival. This will be delivered to the address associated with your Ticketmaster account. If this address does not match your preferred delivery address, please contact Ticketmaster Support to change the address on your Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival order. https://help.ticketmaster.co.uk/.
Hotel rates are more expensive during festival time and get booked up very quickly. Please book in advance or consider camping (included within your weekend ticket) which we recommend for a full festival experience.
Travel
Looking for the easiest and most sustainable way to get to Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival?
Our official travel partner Big Green Coach returns for 2026 to offer carbon-neutral services directly to the festival’s coach park.
Secure your weekend or day return travel from one of 53 UK pick-up locations in advance for just £1 and split the rest in bitesize monthly instalments.
WEEKEND RETURN COACH: Choose to arrive on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday and return on Monday, hassle-free. You can view the timetable here.
Travel sustainability with the UK’s largest events travel company from just £50. BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment.
Reading train station is a 15-20 minute walk from the festival site. There are many routes from throughout the country to the station, including from London Paddington.
The last trains leaving Reading train station are often incredibly busy and do not run late on Friday and Saturday night. Please leave extra time if you’re planning on using these services.
To check train times and service providers, please visit the National Rail website.
Please visit the Network Rail website here to check for planned engineering work prior to travelling.
When going home by train, make sure you leave at least an hour to get to your train from the festival site exit gate.
TRAVELLING BY TRAIN? MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A VALID TICKET WITH YOU
Things to remember when travelling to and from the festival by train…
Great Western Railway (GWR) conduct a full scale revenue protection exercise for the entirety of the event.
This means that they are looking for people without valid tickets
If you can’t produce a valid ticket you are likely to face significant extra costs and the possibility of criminal prosecution
TO AVOID SPOLING YOUR WEEKEND:
- Make sure you have a valid ticket with you
- Make sure you have enough charge in your phone so that you can show your ticket when asked.\
- If you are aged 16 or over you must purchase an adult ticket
- If you apply a railcard discount when you buy your ticket you must posses that railcard and present it when asked
- You must have a ticket for the entirety of your journey
- If using CPay (your bank card within the Transport for London scheme) then make sure you tap in at the station you joined the train (any station between London Paddington and Reading)
- Oyster cards are not valid at Reading Station
- GWR LOOK FOR ALTERED RAILCARDS AND TICKETS:
Do not copy and share your ticket or railcard with others
GWR can see when they are/have been used by someone else
More info coming soon!
Drop off/pick up point
There are numerous drop off/pick up points for the festival:
- Private hire taxis drop off/pick up on Cremyll Road, off Tessa Road
- Hackney carriages / black cabs drop off/pick up on Tessa Road
- Minibuses drop off/pick up point is at Kings Meadow car park
- Parents/friends drop off/pick up at Hills Meadow car park
- From 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Monday, 26th August, Hackney carriages/black cabs will also pick up from Thames Side Promenade (the road next to the Crowne Plaza Hotel)
Once you’ve arrived, follow the signs to the festival entrance.
FREE BOATS SERVICE
Shuttle boats will run from Green Gate to Green Car Park and from Green Car Park to Green Gate at the times below:
- WED 26th: 13:00 – 22:00
- THURS 27th: 08:00 – Midnight
- FRI 28th: 08:00 – 01:00 (Saturday)
- SAT 29th: 08:00 – 01:00 (Sunday)
- SUN 30th: 08:00 – 02:00 (Monday)
- MON 31st: 08:00 – 14:00
There is a FREE boat service that will take you from Kings Meadow (Green Car Park) to Green Gate where you get onto the festival site. More details here. It’s operated by Thames Rivercruise.
Please don’t use other boats as they may be unsafe, unlicensed, dangerous and charge you ££££!
SWIMMING AND BRIDGE JUMPING – Our advice is don’t. Just don’t. Here’s why…
- rubbish in the river (broken glass, metal, shopping trollies (lots of shopping trollies) etc.
- strong currents – too strong for you to fight against.
- cold water – it always is in the Thames, even in summer – hypothermia and drowning can follow boats! Do you want to get pulled under or hit by a boat propeller?
- locks or weirs – it would be plain daft to swim here wouldn’t it!!
- depth of water? – dive or jump into shallow water and you can get paralysed from your spinal injuries
- never, ever, push someone in. Something terrible could happen to them which you’ll regret for the rest of your life. Please see here for a link on how to use the throw lines located along the river bank: Learn more about how to use a water rescue throw line
Locations of throw lines are as follows:
- Thames Prom (Cow Lane)
- Thames Prom (Thames Side Promenade)
- Christchurch Meadows (entrance by Wolsey Road)
- Christchurch Meadows (by lamppost 11767 outside children’s play area)
- Thames Side (east side of Reading Bridge – by Reading Bridge House)
- Thames Side (Kings Meadow adjacent to mooring F near Caversham Lock)
- County Lock (by bench / notice board)
- Fobney Lock (adjacent Island Road)
- Green Car Park: Thames Lido – An urban retreat located in Reading – right next to green car park. You can book a 2 hour guest swimming slot, and cool off in a beautifully restored Edwardian lido in complete safety -no boats, no rats, no waterborne diseases, no submerged objects to hurt you – perfect!!

Taxis will be available from Reading train station. The main festival taxi pick up/drop off point will be on Tessa Road, near Red Gate and will cost approx. £5-6. Busy traffic/slow journeys will increase the price.
Taxis are not allowed access to drop off at the White Campsite (Mapledurham). If you want to get to the White Campsite without parking there you should access the site at Red or Green Gate and walk through the campsites to the bridge.
Queues for taxis leaving site are often quite long, particularly on Sunday night/Monday morning, so consider pre-booking a private hire to collect you from the designated pick up area at the far end of Tessa Road.
We strongly recommend people don’t drive to Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival but take public transport or, if driving is a must, car share where possible to limit traffic on the roads. The train station is very close to the festival site and shuttle buses run back and forth for £1.50 single. See the above section ‘by Shuttle Bus’ for more information.
If you do drive, please follow the AA signage and directions on your car pass and not your Sat Nav. Please be aware, some of our car parks are located on grass fields which may not be suitable for certain car suspensions. If you would like more information, please see ‘contact us’.
CARPARKING SUMMARY:
Parking
We have two public car parks which open as per the times of the campsites. See below for more information. Follow the colour-coded AA signs to park.
Weekend Car Parks (White & Green Carparks)
- Weekend ticket holders can park in both the Green and White Carparks.
- White & Green Weekend Car Park passes are valid from Wednesday – Monday for Early Entry Pass (in conjunction with a Weekend Ticket).
- Weekend Ticket holders (without an early entry pass) can park Thursday – Monday.
- You must display an actual car park pass in your car – printed booking confirmations will not be accepted as a car park pass.
Day Car Parks (Green Carpark Only)
- Day Ticket Holders can park in the Green Carpark ONLY. The White Carpark is for Weekend Ticket holders ONLY.
- Car Parks are open from 8am for Day Ticket holders with a ticket for that day. Day Car Park Passes are available on the gate, subject to availability.
- The Green Car Park is the only day car park. Day Car Park Passes often sell out in advance in which case there would be no passes available to buy on the gate and you would be directed to a public car park in Reading town which may cost more.
- You must display an actual Car Park Pass in your car – printed booking confirmations will not be accepted as a car park pass – if you do not receive an actual pass from your ticket agent, you must contact them before leaving for the festival, otherwise you will be charged for a replacement pass on the gate.
THE CARPARKS:
White Car Park
- The White Car Park is situated in Mapledurham, next to the White campsite.
- Any weekend vehicles coming north or west of Reading should go to the White Car Park.
- All public campervans and caravans should follow signs for White Car Park. Please note: There is no access to the festival for Day
- Ticket holders from the White Car Park, nor for those who need to visit the Guest or Access Check-In points.
- There is also strictly no drop-offs or pick-ups allowed at any time.
Directions to White Car Park
- FROM M4 EASTBOUND – Junction 11 or 12
- FROM M3 – Junction 6
- FROM M40 COMING FROM THE WEST – Junction 9
Green Car Park
- Green Car Park is situated in Kings Meadow which is off site. There is a free shuttle boat to take you from the car park to Green Gate.
- Any weekend vehicles coming from the East or South of Reading should go to the Green car park which is situated close to Napier Road, Reading.
- All day ticket holders will go to Green car park. No access for drop-offs or pick up.
Should carpark space run low, further information on alternative parking options will be found here.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Drop off/pick up point
There are numerous drop off/pick up points for the festival:
- Private hire taxis drop off/pick up on Cremyll Road, off Tessa Road
- Hackney carriages/black cabs drop off/pick up on Tessa Road
- Minibuses drop off/pick up point is at Kings Meadow car park
- Parents/friends drop off/pick up is at Hills Meadow car park
- From 6:00am -2:00pm on Monday 26th August, Hackney carriages/black cabs will also pick up from Thames Side Promenade (the road next to the Crowne Plaza Hotel)
- Do not attempt to drop off or pick up anywhere near Richfield Avenue or the White or Green Car Parks.
- Once you’ve arrived, follow the signs to the festival entrance.
Leaving the site
- Our peak exit times are between 8:00am and 1:00pm on Bank Holiday Monday, 31st August. Please plan ahead and organise leaving arrangements before you arrive at the festival.
- Please ensure you have a good exit planned, with a sober and well-rested driver by the time you are ready to leave.
- Important parking information for Day ticket holders & guest/disabled access ticket holders – there is no access from the White Car Park to the Green Day Gate for Day Ticket holders or the guest/disabled access check in because both of these are situated on the other side of the river.
- You will not be able to access the festival site from the White Car Park unless you have a standard Weekend ticket (+ Early Entry Pass for access on Wednesday).
- If you have a Day Ticket, you must either purchase a Green Day Car Park Pass for the corresponding day to your ticket or, once these are sold out, either travel to the festival using public transport or utilise one of the public car parks in Reading town detailed below. You can only enter the festival site via the Green Day Gate.
- If you have a Guest (Day or Weekend) or disabled access ticket, you will be provided with the relevant parking information for your ticket type closer to the festival, please do not purchase a White Car Park Pass or attempt to access the site via the White Car Park/Pedestrian entrance as you will be turned away.
Railair operate a direct Reading to London Heathrow bus service which uses Reading Train Station as a drop-off and pick-up point. This service is best when pre-booked, which can be done at the Railair website (https://www.railair.com/).
Please note this bus service does not stop at any other locations other than Reading and the London Heathrow terminals.
If you plan to book a coach for you and your friends from a private operator to drop you off / pick you up at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival please go ahead and book your coach.
Depending on the capacity of your coach, you may need to purchase/book a slot for your pick up/drop off near the festival site at a later date, see below for more info.
Not all vehicles require a booking. Descriptions of vehicles:
- (A) ) A Minibus: is a vehicle which holds up to 16 passengers (+ driver).
- (B) A Coach: is a vehicle which holds from 17 passengers (+ driver) up to 49 passengers or more (+ driver)
If (A) applies, you do not need to purchase any extra tickets. Your driver can pick you up and drop you off at Kings Meadow, RG1 8DF between 8:00am 26/08/2026 and 31/08/2026 17:00pm.
If (B) applies, you will need to book/purchase a pick up and drop off slot check back here for link to book 2026 slot
Accessibility
Our accessible campsite is located close to the arena and has its own dedicated entrance.
If you require accessible camping you will need to please select this option when completing your Reading Accessible Facilities Application form.
FACILITIES
There is a dedicated accessibility team and stewards based in the campsite to assist you during your stay as well as with your bags on arrival.
The following facilities are available within this campsite:
- A dedicated accessibility information hub
- Wheelchair accessible and standard gender neutral toilets
- Wheelchair accessible and standard gender neutral showers.
- Accessible routes
- Changing places unit featuring an adult changing bed, toilet, sink and hoist. (Please note that hoist slings will not be available. Please remember to bring your own.)
- Charging facilities for wheelchairs and medical equipment.
- Accessible sink and drinking water points.
- Secure cold fridge to store medication.
- Essential electric power supply (if requested and approved)
- A Get Ready with Me (GRWM) station
- Food trader
ARRIVAL
- We provide an internal transport service to the accessible campsite.
- The accessibility team will also be available to help you transport your luggage from the car park to the campsite.
PITCH SIZE, GROUP SIZE AND GAZEBOS
We aim to accommodate as many customers as possible in the accessible campsite. To assist us with this, please be aware of the following:
- Please be respectful of your fellow campers and only bring tents appropriate for the size of your party.
- You will be permitted to camp with a maximum of three other people (this includes your essential companion).
- You may be asked to move or remove your gazebo if it is taking up too much space. We ask that you consider fellow campers when pitching your gazebo.
We do not handle the hire of mobility scooters directly. Please make your own arrangements with your chosen provider.
The general campsites are located further from the arena than the accessible campsite. More information about other campsites at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is available on the ‘Accommodation’ webpage.
BSL INTERPRETING SERVICES
A British Sign Language performance interpreting service will be provided on request and at no extra charge, providing reasonable notice is given in advance of the festival.
Please make sure you request this service on the Reading Accessible Facilities Application form.
Customers who have requested this service will be contacted by the interpreting team for an understanding of which performances they would like covered; this is not guaranteed and subject to change.
HEARING LOOPS
Hearing loops will be installed at the Accessibility box offices and information hubs.
If you have any queries that aren’t answered here, we have a dedicated Accessibility Team working all year round to assist customers. Please don’t hesitate to contact them using the Reading Accessibility Contact Form.
ACCESSIBLE CAR PARKING
Accessible parking can be requested as part of your application.
The accessible car parks are located in close proximity to the accessible campsite and the arena:
- Accessible parking must be requested on your application form.
- Blue badge holders do not automatically qualify for accessible parking. This must be requested on your Reading Accessible Facilities Application form.
- Accessible parking is limited to 1 parking pass per accessiblity customer.
- By way of clarification, friends and family arriving in separate vehicles will not be able to park in the accessible car park and will need to park in the general car parks.
- Pink Moon customers should follow the parking instructions included with their package.
Please note that parking is extremely limited at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, and we encourage customers to use public transport where possible.
If you chose to travel to the festival using public transport, there is a shuttle bus stop at Reading Train Station North Interchange on Trooper Pots Way. This will then drop you at Thameside Promenade Car Park which is by Red Gate. All buses are accessible, however please note that some buses only have one wheelchair space (others have two).
Alternative Blue Badge parking may also available in Reading. Information about Blue Badge parking in the local area can also be found on the Reading Borough Council Parking webpage.
DROP OFF PASSES
If you are being dropped off at and picked up from Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, please let us know in your application form. We will then send you a pass so you can be dropped off and picked up in the accessible car park. This will be sent closer to the festival date and will need to be clearly displayed on your dashboard when arriving to the accessible car park.
ACCESSIBILITY GUIDE
Customers who have applied and been processed for accessible facilities will be sent an Accessibility Guide prior to the event.
GROUND CONDITIONS / WEATHER
The site has the benefit of existing hard standing and temporary trackway routes, in certain areas.
However, please be aware that the festival primarily takes place on grass fields with some sloping areas.
It is also important to be aware that, during wet weather, the site is likely to become muddy and become more difficult to navigate.
EFFECT LIGHTING
Smoke machines, strobe lights, lasers, fireworks, and other effects may be in use at this event. Anyone affected by these should bear this in mind.
MEDICAL AND WELFARE
Medical and welfare facilities are available throughout the festival.
Doctors, paramedics, first aiders, and fully equipped ambulances are based at the medical centre.
SECURITY AND STEWARDS
In the unlikely event of an emergency or site evacuation, Security and Stewards are deployed throughout the festival. They will assist in moving everybody to a place of safety.
They are also briefed to offer information, help and support.
If you are unwell or require assistance, please approach a member of the Security and Stewarding Team who are clearly identifiable by their numbered tabards/shirts.
Assistance dogs will be approved on a case by case basis by the accessibility team. If you want to bring an assistance dog, please request this in your application. Your request will be reviewed by the accessibility team and we will let you know if it is approved.
A spending area will be available for assistance dogs.
We look forward to welcoming you to Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival 2026. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our customers.
Here you will find details of the accessible facilities available at the festival, as well as information about attending as an accessibility customer. A site plan, showing the location of all our facilities, will be made available at a later date.
Please note, there is no separate Accessible Ticket type. Please buy a standard ticket first and then apply for additional accessible facilities. There is no need to buy a ticket for your Essential Companion.
Before applying for the use of accessible facilities.
You need to have bought your Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival ticket before you apply. (Please note that there is no separate ‘accessibility’ ticket category).
Please do not buy a ticket for your essential companion. Essential companion tickets are allocated through the application process.
You will also need either to have a Nimbus Access Card or Digital Access Pass from one of the Live Nation events listed on the Nimbus website. If you don’t have one, you can register with Nimbus for a free Digital Access Pass.
Please note that registering for a Nimbus Access Card or Digital Access Pass is not the same as applying for the use of accessible facilities at the festival. You must still complete the application form once you have your Nimbus Access Card or Digital Access Pass.
Applying for the use of accessible facilities
- Have your ticket booking reference and your Nimbus Access Card or Digital Access Pass ready.
- Complete the Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival Accessible Facilities application form (link coming soon)
- The Reading Accessibility Team will review your application.
- You’ll receive an email once it’s processed. The email will tell you what facilities you are approved to use. You should get the email within 5 working days.
If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the Reading Accessibility Team.
Notes on completing the application form
- Please make sure you enter your personal details on the application form exactly as they appear on your Nimbus Access Card or Digital Access Pass. This includes the spelling of your name(s). If they don’t match exactly, it may delay your application being processed.
- Each accessibility customer wishing to apply for use of the accessible facilities should submit an individual application. Please do not include more than one person per application. This helps us ensure that everyone in your group gets the facilities they require.
Temporary impairments
Please note that our accessible facilities are unable to cater for people with temporary impairments. A temporary impairment is anything that affects an individual for less than 12 months such as broken bones, healing injuries or pregnancy. If you have a question relating to a temporary impairment, please contact the Reading Customer Service Team.
An essential companion ticket is provided, free of charge, to those customers who would be unable to attend without the help and support of another person.
Please do not purchase a ticket for your essential companion. These are allocated through the application process.
Your essential companion must be aged 18 or over. They must be willing and able to perform all your requirements and must provide assistance to you during the unlikely event of an evacuation or other emergency.
If your essential companion wishes to bring a child into the festival, then the child must be accompanied by another adult who has purchased a ticket.
If the customer approved for an essential companion is a child of 12 years or under, they must also be accompanied by an adult that has purchased a ticket. The child cannot attend the festival with the essential companion alone.
If you need different people to assume the role of your essential companion throughout the festival, please indicate this your application in the Additional Information section.
ACCESSIBLE VIEWING AREAS
There are various accessible viewing areas available within the arena.
Raised Viewing Platform
- Raised viewing platforms are available for wheelchair users and those with restricted mobility. Access to the platforms will be approved as part of your application.
- Only the approved customer and their essential companion (or friend) will have access to the raised viewing platform. This allows us to accommodate as many customers, who require use of this facility, as possible.
- All raised viewing platforms have ramped access, wheelchair-accessible toilets, charging points, and drinking water, and a dedicated platform manager.
- Limited seating is also available at each platform. We will be providing chairs that have a load-bearing capacity of 250 pounds (approximately 18 stone). If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please contact the Reading Accessibility Team.
- Raised viewing platforms may get busy. Please note that these are operated on a first come first served basis.
- The raised viewing platforms are not covered so please dress appropriately for all weather conditions.
Ground Viewing Area
- Dedicated ground viewing areas are available to for those who need a less crowded area and the option of sitting for short periods of time. Access to the ground viewing area will be approved as part of your application.
- The ground viewing areas are situated in front of the raised viewing platforms and are separated from the main crowds by a barrier. These are primarily standing areas, although limited seating is available and is operated on a first come first served basis. We will be providing chairs that have a load-bearing capacity of 250 pounds (approximately 18 stone). If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please contact the Reading Accessibility Team.
- Only the approved customer and their essential companion (or friend) will have access to the ground viewing areas. This allows us to accommodate as many customers, who require use of this facility, as possible.
ACCESSIBLE TOILETS
Wheelchair accessible and standard toilets for accessibility customers are located within the accessible viewing areas. They are available to all accessibility customers and their essential companions.
CHANGING PLACES
In the arena, there is a changing places unit featuring an adult changing bed, toilet, sink, and hoist. (Please note that hoist slings will not be available. Please remember to bring your own.)
ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCE LANES
There are dedicated entrance lanes for accessibility customers to access the arena.
ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION HUB
There is an information hub in the arena and for accessibility customers, staffed by our dedicated team.
SENSORY CALM SPACE
There is a Sensory Calm Tent located onsite. The aim of this space is to provide a safe, low-level stimulation and recalibration zone for any customers who need to use it.
BARS AND MERCHANDISE STALLS
Dedicated accessible lanes and accessible serving areas are available at each main bar and merchandise stall.
You can bring prescription medication to the festival but please ensure it is in the original packaging with the dispensary sticker intact.
If you need to bring in loose medication or medication that’s not in its original packaging, please also bring the prescription(s) with you.
Refrigerated medication storage is available in the accessible campsite and arena.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA
- Medical marijuana prescribed for daily use may be brought into the event.
- Please bring the medication in its prescribed form together with the original prescription supporting its use for the entire duration of your time at the event. You may be asked to present this, along with identification matching the name on the prescription, upon entry.
FOOD
All Reading customers are permitted to bring a small amount of food for personal consumption into the arena.
Accessibility customers are permitted to bring additional food in excess of the usual amount into the arena.
(This increased allowance applies to accessibility customers only and not to essential companions or friends and family.)
DRINK
All Reading customers are permitted to bring a sealed, unopened 500ml bottle of water or soft drink into the arena.
Accessibility customers are permitted to bring one sealed, unopened bottle up to 1.5l of water or soft drink into the arena.
(This increased allowance applies to accessibility customers only and not to essential companions or friends and family.)
For security reasons, we ordinarily only permit customers to bring a small bag (A4 size) into the arena.
Accessibility customers are entitled to bring a bigger bag into the arena (one bag only per accessibility customer).
Safety
The Event is produced for the enjoyment of all those persons who attend. Any person who disrupts the Event under any of the below sections will leave themselves liable for eviction from the Event. The decision as to the eviction will be at the discretion of the Eviction Team / Security Coordinator following advice from security personnel. Persons will be liable for eviction under the following circumstances:
Reasons for eviction:
- Entering or being inside the Event without a ticket or relevant pass/ wristband;
- Unacceptable, disruptive or anti-social behaviour; *
- Having been arrested or cautioned in connection with a criminal offence, pending or post-hand-over to the Police.
*Unacceptable behaviour that can lead to eviction includes but is not limited to:
- illegal activity;
- breaching the terms and conditions of entry;
- failing to submit to a search as a condition of entry:
- offensive behaviour;
- throwing hard objects in the direction of people;
- encouraging others to behave badly by incitement;
- preventing security or emergency responders reacting to a situation; committing a criminal offence but not arrested by the police; in possession of unlawful drugs;
- unofficially selling alcohol, tobacco, counterfeit goods or any other unauthorized goods;
- ticket scalping;
- any other behaviour that leaves the Event open to prosecution or is not conducive to maintaining a safe Event.
All evictees will be processed via Eviction Team / Security Coordinator, and their wristbands / tickets will be removed to prevent them from re-entering the Event.
All persons presented for eviction by security will be interviewed by the Eviction Team / Security Coordinator who are independent of security, and their details will be recorded in a database with their full personal details, a photograph, date and time and the reasons for eviction.
All evictees will be able to make a free telephone call if they do not have a cell phone to contact members of their group and/or family.
Evictees will need to phone a friend at the Event to collect their belongings before their eviction as they will not be permitted back into the Event to find them. We will not be responsible for ensuring that they leave the Event with their belongings.
Evictees will receive a letter detailing the eviction process and details of onward transportation.
Evictees are normally evicted from the Event via the public transport hub/taxi rank.
Evictees are liable to receive a life time ban from purchasing tickets or working/volunteering for any LNE Events.
Bridge jumping is an extremely dangerous thing to do. If you are found attempting to jump off, you will be taken to the police immediately.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, highly poisonous gas that can kill in minutes. Never take a portable barbecue – or lit charcoal – into an enclosed space like a tent or caravan. Disposable BBQs and campfires are banned at Reading 2025. Make sure exhaust fumes from generators are properly vented away from occupied areas.
If you think you have potentially been exposed to carbon monoxide whilst at the festival, please contact a steward immediately.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tiredness and confusion
- Stomach pain
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
If a serious or life-threatening crime is being committed, please contact a member of staff in a bright tabard or police officer immediately. If in the unlikely event you cannot find someone, please call 999, and/or shout for help to get attention.
There are over a thousand security, stewards and campsite staff on duty, all of which wear our festival tabards. Locate a member of staff for any emergencies, who will be able to assist or locate the correct assistance.
For further information check out our ‘what to do if’ info page
In an emergency: Call 999 and alert a steward or a security person wearing a tabard who will know the way to the nearest medical facility and will be able to contact Medical by radio. Depending on the problem, you may be advised to go to a medical point, or a medical response may be sent to you. This could be an ambulance, paramedic or first responder. Our medical centres are located:
- Main Medical Centre and Pharmacy (24 hours), Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Arena Medical Centre and Pharmacy (11am – midnight), to the left of Main Stage
- Staff at the medical centre are fully qualified medics who are experienced in working at festivals. The centre is equipped to deal with everything from cuts and bruises to major trauma and cardiac arrest.
- Whenever it can be done safely, people are treated on site and very few have to be sent to hospital. As well as doctors and nurses, the medical team includes physiotherapists, podiatrists, a mental health team and an X ray unit.
Arena patrols (during Arena opening hours)
Teams of first responders patrol the arena, providing first aid, advice and basic life support.
Look here for full information about resources that will be available to keep you safe and well at Reading 2026
We will not tolerate violence against women and girls at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival. If you see something, say something and intervene where it is safe to do so. Our staff are here to help, and are never too far away.
AIM
- Safeguard women and girls from sexual violence by being proactive
- Support vulnerable people through intervention
- Identify sexual predatory behaviour to prevent offence with intervention
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR IN A VICTIM
- Does the person look uncomfortable or upset?
- Are they trying to escape or move away?
- Do they seem frightened?
- When you make eye contact, do they respond in a way that makes you think they want help?
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR IN A PERPETRATOR
- Loitering without a legitimate reason
- Making unwanted contact towards others
- Sexualised or misogynistic comments
- Harassing or stalking behaviour
- Possession of items indicative of preparing to commit sexual violence
- Aggressive & dominating behaviour
- Sexually inappropriate behaviour
- Returning despite intervention
WHERE TO GO FOR ASSISTANCE
- AIR Hubs are open 24 hours and offer assistance, information and response
- Wellbeing and medical tents are open 24 hours
- Stewards are roaming the site and can be spotted wearing high vis
- Check the festival map for locations.
HOW TO INTERVENE
- Distract and interrupt what is happening. You could ask for directions or pretend to be a friend of the victim
- Delegate and ask someone to help, seek out a member of staff
- Delay your response by checking in on the victim after the incident if you do not feel like you can intervene sooner. It’s never too late to act
- Direct response is possible by calling out a perpetrator or naming what is happening to make everyone aware that it is not ok
- Document the incident so it can be followed up later. This is best to do when the victim is already being helped by one of the other strategies as their welfare should be the primary concern
WHERE TO FIND OUT MORE
- Safe Gigs For Women are an intersectional organisation that works to fight sexual violence at live music events, and can provide advice and information about bystander intervention. They’re available from 11am – 9pm onsite. Find them on the festival map.
LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER
Thames Valley Police will be running the Consent Conversations tent, a safe, welcoming space where we’ll be engaging with young people to raise awareness and understanding around consent. Through honest, open chats, interactive tools, and short activities, we’ll explore topics like boundaries, healthy relationships, intoxication, sexting, and how consent can be given and withdrawn. It’s all about giving festival-goers the confidence to have respectful, informed conversations around sex and relationships.
#LOOKOUTFOREACHOTHER
Festival Republic Drugs Policy
Festival Republic does not condone the use of drugs. Drug enforcement laws are as applicable onsite as anywhere else in the UK and it is, therefore, illegal to buy, sell or possess drugs. All drugs are potentially dangerous — there are no harmless drugs. The only way to avoid risks is to not take drugs at all. This goes for new psychoactive substances (formerly known as “legal highs”) as well.
We still want our festival-goers to know that you can come to us for help if you or your friends need it, without fear of getting in trouble at any time.
If you or someone you are with has a bad reaction and needs medical help, talk to the nearest member of staff immediately. Let the medics know what has been taken — we are here to listen, you could save your friend’s life. We guarantee you will not get in trouble. People who are overdosing can go downhill very quickly so don’t delay in seeking help.
If you take drugs and become ill, depressed, or concerned, make sure you ask the nearest member of staff to direct you to our Medical Tent or Wellbeing Tent.
Always be honest with medics and wellbeing teams about what you have consumed so that they know how best to help you.
Medical
- Main Medical Centre and Pharmacy (24 hours): Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Arena Medical Centre and Pharmacy (11am – midnight): To the left of The Main Stage
- Wellbeing
- Arena: 11am to midnight – To the left of Main Stage
- Yellow Campsite: 24hrs – Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Purple Campsite: 24hrs – Near the entrance to Green Campsite
UK Narcotics Anonymous are situated in Purple Campsite, at the entrance to Green Campsite.
Narcotics Anonymous is a community of people who support each other to achieve and maintain a drug-free life.
At Reading, you can drop into their tent for a chat and attend scheduled meetings.
Their space is open on Thursday from 6pm – 9pm with a meeting at 8pm.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday opening times: 11am to 9pm with meetings at 1pm, 4pm, and 8pm.
Drugs Advice
We do not recommend you take drugs, but if you do please bear the following in mind:
- You don’t know the strength of what you might be taking.
- You don’t know how your body will react.
- You can’t tell what you are taking by looking at it.
- You can’t tell how you will react by the reaction others have had.
- You can’t tell how quickly it will take effect.
- Pills and drugs that look exactly the same can be very different.
- No drugs are safe and there is no safe dose.
Remember that tolerance levels can vary. You may not have the same tolerance level as your friends. It can also vary depending on whether or not you have eaten beforehand or consumed alcohol.
You can always up your dose, but you can’t reduce it. Wait at least 2 hours before taking any more. Start low and go slow.
There are drugs in circulation in the UK that have a very strong dose of active ingredients.
Some drugs can take a long time to take effect — don’t assume they are poor quality. They may contain another substance that takes longer to take effect or may have a tougher outer coating that takes longer to dissolve.
If you then take more as a result, you are at increased risk of overdose when the combined doses kick in. Start low and go slow.
Mixing drugs with other illegal drugs, alcohol, or prescription drugs can be very dangerous and is behind many drug-related deaths.
The main factors in overdose are:
- Taking large quantities
- Very strong drugs
- Re-dosing quickly
- Mixing drugs
- Taking unknown substances
- Combining with alcohol
Cheap does not mean weak.
Pure does not mean safe.
Treat all drugs as unknown.
Take regular breaks if you are dancing, exercising, or in a hot environment and rehydrate with water or soft drinks — take small sips regularly but don’t drink more than one pint an hour. Have a rest regularly to cool down.
Having an isotonic drink can help if you have been drinking a lot of water.
Use in a safe environment, with people you trust and not alone. You are more vulnerable when under the influence of drugs, so look out for each other.
Be open with your friends about what you are taking. Ask for help if you need it.
You can talk to the Wellbeing Team onsite in confidence at any time and they will have drugs advisory staff to help you.
At camping festivals, the Wellbeing tent is open 24 hours and their location will be advertised on site maps. Stewards or security will also know where to direct you.
It can be tempting to use other substances to help deal with comedowns, but think of other ways to help such as eating well and getting enough rest.
If you do use substances to sleep, sleep on your side and avoid alcohol or other drugs which can depress your breathing (like ketamine, etizolam, or benzos) as it can be easy to overdose or choke if you are sick in your sleep.
If you need help from the medics, we guarantee that neither you nor your friends will get in trouble.
Ask for help if you need it and don’t wait — getting help early can save lives.
Read our drugs policy.
More on Ecstasy Deaths
Ecstasy deaths appear to be rising year on year. There appears to be a link with the amount of MDMA found in tablets more recently.
In 2005 each pill contained around 80mg of MDMA (an average adult dose is 80–120mg). Average pill strengths are now around 160mg MDMA — twice an average adult dose — and pills are frequently tested upwards of 300mg MDMA.
In addition, your body weight, hormone levels, using other drugs or alcohol, and your underlying health can all have a significant impact on how you react to a drug.
Your friends might have taken the same drug and not had any ill effects. There is no safe dose.
More Information on the Dangers of Mixing Drugs
Mixing drugs intensifies the effects of each drug and makes them more dangerous and potentially fatal.
Mixing drugs and alcohol is common but alcohol can have a big impact on the way many substances affect you.
It could enhance the effects of the first drug but could also create a dangerous or potentially fatal chemical reaction.
Mixing ecstasy with cocaine can increase the high but also increases the risk of cardiac arrest.
The more drugs that are used simultaneously — including alcohol and prescription drugs — the greater the risk.
DO NOT MIX.
Further Information on Particular Combinations
Alcohol and Ecstasy
Alcohol can moderate the high from ecstasy and increase the intensity of the come down. Both drugs cause dehydration which increases the risk of heatstroke.
There is a greater strain on the liver and kidneys which can lead to feeling or being sick. Both drugs impair judgment.
Mixing alcohol with ecstasy has played a part in several drug overdoses at music festivals in recent years.
Alcohol and Cocaine
This combination results in the formation of an entirely new chemical in the body called cocaethylene.
This is associated with liver damage, seizures, and immune system damage.
Immediate death from cocaethylene is 20 times more likely than from cocaine alone.
Alcohol can increase the levels of cocaine in the blood by up to 30%, increasing strain on the cardiovascular system.
There is also an increased likelihood of violent behaviour and suicide.
Alcohol with Other Stimulants
A combination of alcohol with other stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall, amphetamine, some diet pills, some cold remedies, and strong energy drinks can also be dangerous.
They can obscure the sedating effects of alcohol, enabling a person to get dangerously drunk without realising.
Overheating is more likely, leading to organ damage, and is associated with many drug-related deaths.
A person taking alcohol with stimulants can lose their inhibitions but be irritable and aggressive.
Alcohol and Ketamine
Mixing alcohol with ketamine or other downers like valium is particularly risky for overdose.
Misuse of Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs are not safe if not used according to the issuing doctor’s instructions.
The benzodiazepine (benzo’s) group of drugs — valium, xanax, etizolam, temazepam, etc. — are often used to come down from other drugs such as ecstasy or speed.
This is a dangerous combination as tranquilizers can be numbing and, when taken with alcohol, the combined depressant effects can cause fatal overdose by inhibiting breathing or slowing vital organs.
Reading Experiences
In a previous year, an 18-year-old needed intensive care after being found collapsed by his friends at the festival.
He had taken several different drugs, making him unconscious. Over the next few hours, his heart rate and temperature went up to unsafe levels, resulting in liver, kidney, and muscle failure.
Following prolonged treatment, he recovered but needed repeat blood tests for some time.
He was very unwell, but luckily his friends got medical help. He now has no memory of his four-day stay in hospital.
The most important lesson for him was seeing the effect his drug-taking had on his friends and family, who thought he was going to die.
Please think twice before taking drugs, as sometimes, despite the doctors’ best efforts, the drug effects are too severe, and they can’t stop the multi-organ failure resulting in death.
Please visit Talk To Frank for more information.
Final Note
Festival Republic do not condone any usage of drugs at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival. Drug Detection Dogs will be operating throughout the event. Please don’t be alarmed; they are here for the safety of everyone.

We operate a challenge 25 policy at the festival. Although legal, alcohol still has harmful impacts on your body. Remember:
- Pace yourself.
- Try to avoid getting too intoxicated in unfamiliar situations. You can lose control, make risky decisions and become less aware of danger.
- Alcohol and other drugs can impair your judgement. Don’t feel pressured into doing anything you aren’t comfortable with.
- If you are having a bad time or struggling but don’t feel you need medical attention, visit the Welfare Team.
- If you need medical attention, visit the Medical Tent or ask the nearest member of staff to help you.
- If someone becomes unconscious or unresponsive, put them in the recovery position (on their side) and seek immediate medical attention by alerting the nearest member of security.
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks.
- If you are drinking from early in the day, try to stick to drinks with a lower ABV, for example, lager rather than spirits.
- Alcohol is the most common substance used to spike drinks. Never leave drinks unattended and don’t accept a drink from someone you don’t know.
- Mixing alcohol with drugs has been a common factor in some recent drug-related deaths connected with festivals.
Children at Reading
Whilst we do allow under 13s to attend for free, we do suggest that this event is not suitable for young children. If you do want to bring children along, we advise camping in the White Campsite which is expected to be our quietest campsite.
On entering the event, children will be given Tyvek wristbands which have space for you to write your telephone number (as a parent or guardian). We can use this as a primary contact to reunite you. Replacements can be picked up at the Welfare Tent.
If you do bring young children, please ensure that on entry you get a child’s wristband to write your contact number on so that if you are separated you can be quickly reunited.
Set an obvious meeting point in the instance you get separated.
Struggling with Drink and Want to Festival Sober?
There is a solution.
Alcoholics Anonymous will have a presence at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival from 11am to 9pm each day to support your needs. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been drinking, or how much you drink. Alcoholism is an illness.
We live it too. Which is why we can help. Or perhaps you are simply sober curious? Our purpose is to stay sober ourselves and help others who turn to us to get sober too. AA meetings are where you will feel supported, where you can feel you belong.
Each day, we will have meetings that last for one hour at 12 noon and 6pm where we will share our experience, strength, and hope. Teas and coffees will also be available throughout.
We welcome you, whatever your gender, sexual orientation, income, religion, or race. Anyone with a desire to stop drinking, one day at a time, is welcome.
It is free to attend AA. You can just come and listen. Or you can talk and share. It’s up to you.
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If you have lost a child or a person, please contact a member of staff or police officer wearing a hi viz tabard immediately. Alternatively, go to a Wellbeing Tent for assistance:
- Arena – (11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
- Yellow Campsite – (24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Purple Campsite – (24hrs)
Campfires are not allowed anywhere at the festival, including the campsites. This is to support the Air Quality Action Plan and in consideration of local impacts as set out in our Green Nation Charter. Anyone seen creating or fuelling a fire will be evicted from the festival site. We have to continue to protect our future on this planet.
Do not bring a weapon as you will pose a risk to yourself and others.
Do not bring anything that could reasonably be considered for use as a weapon including oversized lighters or any item which may cause danger, offence or disruption to any other person. Please refer to our prohibited items list here under the “what you can and can’t bring section”
Being found in possession of a flare or firework at a music event is now a criminal offence. Anyone found in possession will be removed from site and could face up to 3 months in prison and/or a fine.
If a serious or life-threatening crime is being committed, please contact a member of staff in a bright high-vis or police officer immediately. If in the unlikely event you cannot find someone, please call 999, and/or shout for help to get attention.
There are over a thousand security, stewards and campsite staff on duty, all of which wear our festival high-vis. Locate a member of staff for any emergencies, who will be able to assist or locate the correct assistance.
In the instance of a mental health emergency, when you or someone else could harm yourself or others, please find a member of staff wearing a high-vis immediately. They can radio for the right assistance. Alternatively, visit a medical tent if you are able.
Festivals can be overwhelming and can take a toll on your mental health. If you need support, a friendly chat, or a comfortable stress-free place to chill out, you can visit:
One of Our AirHubs or Get Ready With Me Tents (24hrs) – across campsites and arena
Samaritans (24hrs) – Green Campsite
The volunteer team are expertly trained at listening and providing comfort to those in need.
Reading Street Pastors (24hrs) – Brown Campsite and Yellow Campsite
The local team provide a friendly face and listening ear for festivalgoers operating within our Safeguarding teams in the campsites.
Salvation Army (24hrs) – Scott Street in Green Campsite
The Salvation Army have volunteered at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival for decades, providing emotional and practical support for festival goers at their popular tea tent.
You can also visit a Wellbeing tent for confidential chats and chillout time:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite (24hrs)
You can also visit the calming sensory tent in the arena during arena opening times.
If something is on your mind or you are struggling with the festival environment, you can visit:
One of Our Airhubs (24hrs) – across all campsites and arena
These are staffed by volunteers from local community groups and charities to provide assistant, information and support. Please do get to know your nearest AIRHUB or Get Ready With Me Tents where you are camping and others around site which will be teams from WAVES, Reading Schools, CGL, Berkshire Womens Aid, Soul Scape, Sport in Mind, Oxfam and Soulscape.
Samaritans (24hrs) – Green Campsite
The volunteer team are expertly trained at listening and providing comfort to those in need.
Reading Street Pastors (24hrs) – Brown and Yellow Campsite
The local team provide a friendly face and listening ear for festivalgoers operating within our Safeguarding teams in the campsites.
Salvation Army (24hrs) – Scott Street in Green Campsite
The Salvation Army have volunteered at Reading Festival for decades, providing emotional and practical support for festival goers at their popular tea tent.
You can also seek support from our security teams who you will see around the festival and the Wellbeing tents at the:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite (24hrs)
If someone is making you feel uncomfortable, you can go to any bar or security personnel and Ask for Angela. They will provide discreet help to get out of a situation.
You can also seek support from our security teams who you will see around the festival and at:
One of Our Airhubs (24hrs) – 17 across all campsites and arena
In 2023, we introduced AIR Hubs across our campsites at Rockstar Energy presents Reading Festival. These are staffed by volunteers from local community groups and charities to provide assistant, information and support. Please do get to know your nearest AIRHUB where you are camping and others around site which will be teams from WAVES, Reading Schools, CGL, Berkshire Womens Aid, Soul Scape, Sport in Mind, Oxfam and Soulscape.
Samaritans (24hrs) – Green Campsite
The volunteer team are expertly trained at listening and providing comfort to those in need.
Reading Street Pastors (24hrs) – Brown and Yellow Campsite
The local team provide a friendly face and listening ear for festivalgoers operating within our Safeguarding teams in the campsites.
Salvation Army (24hrs) – Scott Street in Green Campsite
The Salvation Army have volunteered at Rockstar Energy presents Reading Festival for decades, providing emotional and practical support for festival goers at their popular tea tent.
You can also visit a Welfare tent for confidential chats and chillout time:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
White Campsite
(24hrs) Between the Campsite Manager Office and Food Stalls
Purple Campsite – (24hrs)
If you think you may have been the victim of sexual assault, approach any member of staff wearing a hi viz tabard for assistance. Alternatively, you can visit a Wellbeing tent where they will be able to provide the care and support you need:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite (24hrs)
You can also visit Safe Gigs for Women in the arena until 22:00hrs Thursday > Sunday. They are an intersectional organisation that works to fight sexual violence at live music events, can provide advice and information about bystander intervention. If you have experienced a crime on site and need support on next steps, Reading Festival can help you with the next steps. Please speak to any of our support teams including, Wellbeing, medical, an AIRHUB or your nearest Campsite Manager who are positioned in all campsites 24 hour.
We still want our festival-goers to know that you can come to us for help if you or your friends need it, without fear of getting in trouble at any time.
If you or someone you are with has a bad reaction and needs medical help, talk to the nearest member of staff immediately. Let the medics know what has been taken. You could save your friend’s life. We guarantee you will not get in trouble. People who are overdosing can go downhill very quickly so don’t delay in seeking help.
If you take drugs and become ill, depressed or concerned, make sure you ask the nearest member of staff to direct you to our Medical Tent or Wellbeing Tent.
Always be honest with medics and wellbeing teams about what you have consumed so that they know how best to help you.
Medical:
Main Medical Centre (24 hours), Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Arena Medical Centre (11am – midnight), to the left of Main Stage
Wellbeing:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite (24hrs)
UK Narcotics Anonymous are situated in Purple Campsite, at the entrance to Green Campsite. Their opening hours are:
- Thursday: 2pm-9pm.
- Friday-Sunday: 11am-9pm.
Narcotics Anonymous is a community of people who support each other to achieve and maintain a drug free life. At Reading, you can drop into their tent for a chat and attend scheduled meetings.
In an emergency: Alert a steward or a security person wearing a high-vis who will know how to contact law enforcement and security services.
If you need to contact Thames Valley Police to report a non-emergency crime or to provide information on a crime while at the festival, please go to your nearest AIRHUB, Campsite Manager or Wellbeing tent at:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite (24hrs)
If you are worried about pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases, our Medical centres in Yellow Campsite, the Arena and White Campsite can give you help and advice and emergency contraception if needed:
Main Medical Centre (24 hours), Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Arena Medical Centre (11am – midnight), to the left of Main Stage
WELLBEING:
Arena
(11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
Yellow Campsite
(24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
Purple Campsite – (24hrs)
If you think you or someone you know has been spiked:
If it feels like a medical emergency: Alert a steward or a security person wearing a high-vis who will know the way to the nearest medical facility and will be able to contact Medical by radio.
If you are able, get to your nearest Wellbeing or Medical facility. They will be able to advise and support. If you still have your drink, they will be able to test it for spiking:
Wellbeing:
- Arena – (11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
- Yellow Campsite – (24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Purple Campsite – (24hrs)
Medical:
- Main Medical Centre (24 hours), Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Arena Medical Centre (11am – midnight), to the left of Main Stage
- In partnership with our bar provider, we are ensuring all staff (including our security teams) are briefed on what to be aware of with regards to spiking. Please report any suspicious activity to security or bar staff.
UK Narcotics Anonymous are situated in Purple Campsite, at the entrance to Green Campsite.
Their opening hours are:
- Thursday: 2pm–9pm
- Friday–Sunday: 11am–9pm
Narcotics Anonymous is a community of people who support each other to achieve and maintain a drug free life.
At Reading, you can drop into their tent for a chat and attend scheduled meetings.
Medical Assistance and Welfare
If you or someone you are with has a bad reaction and needs medical help, talk to the nearest member of staff immediately. Let the medics know what has been taken — you could save your friend’s life.
We guarantee you will not get in trouble. People who are overdosing can go downhill very quickly, so don’t delay in seeking help.
If you take drugs and become ill, depressed, or concerned, make sure you ask the nearest member of staff to direct you to our Medical Tent or Welfare Tent.
Always be honest with medics and welfare teams about what you have consumed so that they know how best to help you.
Medical Locations
- Main Medical Centre and Pharmacy (24 hours):
- Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Arena Medical Centre and Pharmacy (11am – midnight):
- To the left of Main Stage
- White Campsite Medical Unit (24 hours):
- This is a smaller unit staffed by nurses, paramedics, and first responders. It is set up to deal with minor injuries and illnesses.
Welfare Locations
- Arena (11am – midnight): To the left of Main Stage
- Yellow Campsite (24hrs): Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- White Campsite (24hrs): Between the Campsite Manager Office and Food Stalls
- Purple Campsite (24hrs)
Struggling with Drink and Want to Festival Sober?
There is a solution.
Alcoholics Anonymous will have a presence at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival from 11am to 9pm each day to support your needs.
It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been drinking, or how much you drink. Alcoholism is an illness.
We live it too, which is why we can help. Or perhaps you are simply sober curious? Our purpose is to stay sober ourselves and help others who turn to us to get sober too.
AA meetings are where you will feel supported, where you can feel you belong.
Each day, we will have meetings that last for one hour at 12 noon and 6pm where we will share our experience, strength, and hope. Teas and coffees will also be available throughout.
We welcome you, whatever your gender, sexual orientation, income, religion, or race.
Anyone with a desire to stop drinking, one day at a time, is welcome.
It is free to attend AA. You can just come and listen — or you can talk and share. It’s up to you.

Security checks are in place to protect you in conjunction with Action Counter Terrorism. If you spot something that doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and report it to security staff straight away. Follow advice from @TerrorismPolice and #BeSafeBeSound
If you have lost a child or a person, please contact a member of staff or police officer wearing a hi viz tabard immediately. Alternatively, go to a Wellbeing Tent for assistance:
- Arena – (11am to midnight) – To the left of Main Stage
- Yellow Campsite – (24hrs) Baker Lane in Yellow Campsite, by the Arena Gate
- Purple Campsite – (24hrs)
Our campaign to promote safety around drugs and alcohol, consent, and keeping an eye out for one another.
We want to create an environment where everyone feels safe.
Remember:
- There is no safe level of drug use.
- Tolerance can vary depending on the person, what you have eaten, and what you have done in a day.
- Get help if someone feels unsafe or unwell.
- Our staff are here to help, not judge.
- Don’t be a state – hydrate. Alternate alcohol with water.
- If your head is not in the right place, get out of the crowd and tell someone how you feel.
- Leave the mixing to the DJ. Mixing substances is always risky.
- Eat, sleep, rehydrate, check in with your mates.
- Don’t feel pressured to do anything you don’t want to do.
- Someone can’t consent if they are drunk or high.
- Stick together. Don’t leave anyone behind.
For parents/guardians
We know it can be nerve-wracking when your young person is heading to a festival on their own. We hope these tips will help your peace of mind. And please see the Full List of Resources below, to put your mind at ease that there are plenty of people onsite looking out for your young person:
- Hills Meadow Car Park is the dedicated drop off/pick up area.
- Make sure they have all the essentials before they head off: ticket, money, IDs, comfortable footwear, water bottle.
- It is always a good idea to have warm clothing and bedding if they are a weekend camper.
- Sun cream and hats will be a life saver in a heatwave!
- Make sure they can stick with their mates and have a meeting point in case they do get separated.
- Encourage them to lock their valuables in our safe storage facilities at Reapers Street or the lockers at Baker Lane.
- Make sure they know how to pace themselves if they are over 18 and will be drinking alcohol: plenty of water, food and a safe space to hang out.
- Remind them that there is no safe way to take drugs and they will be refused entry or ejected if found with them. However, if they or their friends do have a bad experience with substances, we encourage them to go to a Welfare or Medical tent as soon as possible and be honest with our staff. They will not get in trouble and will be given the right care.
Learn more about safeguarding at our festival.
Please watch this video created by our local partners, Brighter Futures:
The Arena
Campsites:
- Weekend + Early Entry Ticket holders: 18:00 Wednesday 26th August 2026
- Weekend Ticket holders: 08:00 Thursday 27st August 2026
- Campsite is open 24 Hours, individuals can arrive at any time after the above
- Campsite closes at midday Monday 31st August 2026.
If you are leaving and returning after 8pm on Sunday evening, don’t forget to get your hand stamped on your way out to be able to return later on.
Arena:
- Friday 28th – Sunday 30th August 2026
- Opening time: 11:00
- With a day ticket, once you leave you cannot re-enter the arena.
- With a weekend ticket, you can leave and re-enter the arena and campsites.
Only food for personal consumption can be brought into the Arena.
We only allow sealed water under 500ml, as well as empty reusable plastic and metal bottles of any size into the Arena.
Please refill your empty bottles at the water points inside the Arena for free.
Interested in becoming a food and drink trader at the festival? Contact Central Catering for more information (concessions@centralfusion.co.uk)
There are tested drinking water points throughout the Arena which are free to use. If you notice any issue with our water points, let a member of staff know so that they can get it fixed. Hot Water is avaliable from your Campsite Manager Hubs and AIR Hubs.
Entry into campsites:
We do not have bag size restrictions for first time entry although, we advise packing as light as possible. Please take note of our full list of prohibited items (in ‘What You Can and Can’t Bring’ category above).
Arena:
We strongly advise you do not bring a bag into the Arena as there will be long queues while all bags are searched. If you do wish to bring a bag, please ensure that it is no bigger than A4 sized 8.27”x11.69”. There is a limit to one A4 sized bag per person permitted into the Arena. You and your bag maybe subject to a search upon entering the campsites and arena. CCTV is in operation throughout the festival site. Please be patient if there are longer queues than normal. We request that you cooperate with any security requests and searches.
You and your bag maybe subject to a search upon entering the campsites and arena. CCTV is in operation throughout the festival site. Please be patient if there are longer queues than normal. We request that you cooperate with any security requests and searches.
Anything such as car keys, cash, credit cards, mobile phones, wallets, purses and other valuables should be kept on you at all times, or Weekend Ticket holders can use the pre-bookable onsite lockers. You can also leave items at Lost Property/Safe Storage for £4.00 per item, with 24-hour access as needed.
If you do decide to carry these on your person, make sure you keep them hidden and secured under your outer clothing.
Do not leave them in unattended vehicles or in your tent.
Volunteer
HOTBOX CAMPSITE AND ARENA VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer with Hotbox Events at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival and, not only will you be helping other festival-goers get the most out of their weekend, but you’ll also get to go behind the scenes, meet other volunteers from around the world and make new friends, gain valuable experience for your CV and have a whole lot of fun while helping us continue to make Reading one of the best festivals in the world!
When joining us as a volunteer at Reading, you’ll be provided with entry to the festival (including lots of free time to enjoy it), as well as free staff parking and camping, free wi-fi and phone charging close to your tent, free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, toilets, showers, and access to staff catering!
Hotbox Events volunteers work 3x 8-hour shifts, spread across the festival from the Wednesday to Monday, which means you’ll still get loads of time off to enjoy yourself! All volunteers are guaranteed at least two of the main festival evenings off to watch the bands and at least a 16-hour break (usually much longer!) between shifts. You’ll also get to select your shift preferences in advance, meaning you can make sure you’re not working when your favourite artists are playing!
As Hotbox Event volunteers assist in a wide variety of areas, it’s tricky to list everything they get up to, but some of the most common roles include…
• Helping festival-goers in the campsites and arena.
• Answering questions about festival performances and line-ups.
• Helping festival-goers carry their belongings and pitch their tents.
• Reporting any problems, such as a build-up of litter or faulty facilities.
• Working alongside Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival Fire Safety, Medical and Security teams.
• Keeping an eye on the festival campsites from the fire towers.
• Helping out with various roles across the festival site, including at pedestrian and vehicle gates, wristband exchanges, facilities sites, walkways and even stages!
If you want to find out more, head to the Reading Volunteer page on the Hotbox Events website.
Got a question?
Get in touch with Hotbox on Messenger
Email Hotbox info@hotboxevents.com
Check out the Hotbox Events FAQs

Join us as a volunteer steward with Oxfam and play a crucial role behind the scenes. Our dedicated stewards help keep the festival running smoothly while creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all our festivalgoers!
As an Oxfam volunteer, you’ll enjoy:
• A private staff campsite with hot showers
• A food voucher for every shift
• Free tea, coffee, and phone charging
All while joining a friendly, social, and welcoming community of volunteers. Whether coming along solo or with friends, you’ll meet lots of new people and make memories that last a lifetime!
What makes this experience even more fulfilling is that every shift you work raises vital funds for Oxfam’s work fighting poverty and empowering communities worldwide. And with just 3 x 8.15-hour shifts over the whole weekend, you’ll have plenty of time off to enjoy the festival and catch lots of incredible acts.
Find out more on the Oxfam Festivals website.
Ready to get involved? Register your interest now to be first to know when applications open and join our Facebook group to meet fellow volunteers and hear first-hand what it’s like to volunteer at Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival with Oxfam.

Volunteering is a great way to see a whole new side to the festival. You’ll have a great time, meet new people, and help some awesome causes. What do you get when you volunteer?
- Gain access to the best festival in the world
- Time to see some amazing acts
- Oodles of memories
For all volunteering, you’ll need to be 18 or over by the time you arrive at the festival site, have proof to volunteer in the UK (contact the respective volunteer organisation or visit their website for more information) and be available to work the shifts allocated to you throughout the weekend.
Staying Green
Our Look Out for Our Planet campaign invites everyone who attends Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival to take the Planet Pledge. This is a call to action, encouraging every festivalgoer to step up and make sustainability a shared priority alongside the festival organisers.
By attending the festival, you pledge to;
- Consider green travel options
- Thrift your outfit - buy your festival outfit second hand or reuse something you already own.
- Eat a plant-based meal.
- Use the bins provided, separate your waste, and don't drop litter.
- Visit Climate Live or the No Music on a Dead Planet stand.
If you are camping, you pledge to;
- Take your tent and camping gear home.
- Bag up your camping waste and take it to the recycling points.
- Drop any leftover non-perishable food to the air hubs for redistribution.
Remember your Planet Pledge and Look Out for Our Planet!
What WE are doing to Look Out for Our Planet
Energy
Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is powered with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel which is 100% fossil-fuel free.
We have the target of reducing our carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, and how we power Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival is a significant proportion of these emissions.
Travel
We encourage everyone travelling to Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival to consider low-carbon travel options such as public transport.
Plastic
We are reducing single use plastic. Water and soft drinks are served in cans, our cups are paper, and no virgin single use plastic is used (any plastic we have is made from recycled content).
All food packaging and cutlery is 100% compostable.
Bulk condiment bottles must be used by our food vendors instead of single-use sachets.
Recycling
We provide bins across the festival to separate waste and encourage recycling. In 2025, 87% of festival waste was recycled or composted.
A 10p deposit is included on cups, cans and bottle sales to encourage their return for recycling.
We provide free recycling bags to all campers, and run our Recycle to Win Initiative, entering customers who recycle and keep clean camps into an amazing prize draw.
We redistribute leftover food to food banks.
2026 Campsite booking’s will be available at a later date, check back here for latest information on how to secure your space!
New & Improved, THE MEADOW (ECO CAMP), stay in a clean, green field for a festival you’ll remember.
The Meadow (Eco Campsite) is for like-minded people who want to make a difference: You live life with the planet in mind, and want to stay in a clean, green field for a festival you’ll remember.
To stay in The Meadow every guest has to sign up to the following principles:
- All guests agree to respect their fellow campers: Be inclusive and curious, talk about what is important to you, and enjoy the festival together.
- All guests agree to respect the environment by protecting biodiversity and avoiding littering: Separate your recyclable materials, use the toilets provided, and don’t cause excess waste.
- All guests agree to leave the campsite exactly as they found it: Everyone here has joined the call, take your tent home, and show the way forward.
Create Your Future. Stay in the The Meadow in 2026
You must book your free spot in advance alongside your Weekend or Weekend + Early Entry festival ticket.
This year, we’re bringing even more to your camping experience with activities tailored to each of our unique campsites. Whether you’re looking to unwind, connect, or explore something new, each campsite offers its own unique lineup:
The Meadow will feature activities such as sustainability-focused talks, upcycling workshops, clothes swaps, and yoga sessions in a serene setting.
At Pepsi MAX presents Reading Festival, we are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and safe. We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment, discrimination, or violence. See our zero tolerance policy here.
Festival Republic is part of Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s leading live entertainment company. As set out in our Green Nation Sustainability Charter, Festival Republic recognises our responsibility to preserve the live music experience for generations to come, and our opportunity to inspire climate action at our events.
Music Festivals have an impact on the environment because of the transport taken, energy used, waste generated, water used, as well as the food and drink consumed. The Show Must Go On Report 2020 shows that the biggest impacts are travel, energy and waste.
Our Sustainability Charter sets out how we deliver against our Green Nation charter commitments, and how we use our platform to inspire global environmental action.
We are proud to be one of the Vision for Sustainable Events festivals, collaborating with the wider live events industry, and have committed to reducing our carbon emissions.
In 2019, we worked very closely with Julie’s Bicycle while they ran the Creative Green assessment. We were very pleased to have been awarded 5 out of 5 stars.
LOOK OUT FOR OUR PLANET AND TAKE YOUR TENT HOME!
In 2025, 68% of tents were taken home, and we know we can improve on this year to year with your help.
Buy a durable tent that you can use again each year, it will save you money in the long run – Check out our ultimate Tent Guide for more information.
Only bring what you can take home with you. When packing ready for the festival weekend, remember to pack wisely and only bring essential items. Check out our essential packing guide.
The reality is that abandoned tents are sent to energy from waste because it is impossible to recycle or reuse them. If you have any broken tents chairs, gazebos, batteries, unopened tins of food after the festival, please take them to the Recycling Points.
Our message is Look Out for Our Planet and take your tents home.
Salvage applications will open in the spring, please check back then for how to apply to salvage in 2026.



