Download 2023 Dates: Everything You Need to Know About the Rock Festival
If you're a fan of rock and metal music, you've probably heard of Download Festival. It's one of the biggest and most popular rock festivals in the UK, and it's returning in 2023 for its 20th anniversary. But what is Download Festival, who is performing, and how can you prepare for it? In this article, we'll answer all these questions and more, so you can get ready for an epic weekend of rock and roll.
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What is Download Festival?
Download Festival is a mammoth rock event that takes place every year at Donington Park, the spiritual home of rock. It features some of the biggest names in rock and metal music, as well as emerging and underground acts. It also offers a variety of attractions, such as fairground rides, comedy shows, wrestling matches, tattoo parlours, and more. It's a festival for rock fans by rock fans, and it's known for its friendly and passionate atmosphere.
The history of Download Festival
Download Festival started in 2003 as a successor to the Monsters of Rock festival, which ran from 1980 to 1996 at Donington Park. The first edition of Download featured headliners Iron Maiden, Audioslave, and Marilyn Manson, and attracted over 80,000 fans. Since then, Download has grown into one of the most prestigious rock festivals in the world, hosting legends like AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Slipknot, Rammstein, and many more. In 2023, Download will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a special edition that promises to be bigger and better than ever.
The location and venue of Download Festival
Download Festival takes place at Donington Park, a motorsport circuit located near Castle Donington in Leicestershire, England. Donington Park has a long history of hosting rock concerts, dating back to 1980 when Rainbow performed there. Since then, Donington Park has become synonymous with rock music, hosting some of the most iconic shows in rock history. Donington Park is also conveniently located next to East Midlands Airport, making it easy to access by plane, train, or car.
The tickets and prices of Download Festival
Tickets for Download Festival 2023 are on sale now on the official website. You can choose from different types of tickets, depending on how long you want to stay and what kind of experience you want. Here are some of the options:
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Weekend Arena Ticket: This ticket gives you access to the festival arena from Friday to Sunday, where you can watch all the performances on the main stages. It does not include camping or parking. The price is 185 plus fees.
Weekend Camping Ticket: This ticket gives you access to the festival arena from Friday to Sunday, as well as a camping spot in one of the campsites from Wednesday to Monday. You can choose from standard camping or quiet camping. The price is 250 plus fees.
Weekend Camping Plus Ticket: This ticket gives you access to the festival arena from Friday to Sunday, as well as a camping spot in one of the campsites from Wednesday to Monday. You can also enjoy some extra benefits, such as access to proper toilets and showers, free car parking. The price is 295 plus fees.
Weekend RIP Ticket: This ticket gives you access to the festival arena from Friday to Sunday, as well as a camping spot in one of the RIP campsites from Wednesday to Monday. RIP campsites are located closer to the arena and offer more luxury and comfort, such as pre-pitched tents, hotel rooms, or cabins. You also get access to exclusive facilities, such as a guest area, a bar, a restaurant, and more. The price varies depending on the type of accommodation you choose, starting from 499 plus fees.
You can also buy day tickets for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, which give you access to the festival arena for one day only. The price is 95 plus fees per day.
If you want to save some money, you can also opt for the instalment plan, which allows you to pay for your ticket in four monthly payments. You can find more details on the official website.
Who is performing at Download Festival 2023?
Download Festival 2023 has an amazing lineup of rock and metal acts, spanning from classic legends to modern icons. Whether you're into heavy metal, punk rock, alternative rock, or anything in between, you'll find something to suit your taste at Download. Here are some of the highlights of the lineup:
The headliners of Download Festival 2023
The headliners of Download Festival 2023 are three of the biggest and most influential bands in rock history: Metallica, Bring Me The Horizon, and Slipknot. Each of them will close one night of the festival with a spectacular show that will leave you breathless.
Metallica
Metallica are the undisputed kings of metal, and they're returning to Download for the fifth time in their career. The band has sold over 125 million albums worldwide, won nine Grammy Awards, and influenced countless other artists with their thrash metal sound. Metallica will headline the Friday night of Download 2023, and they will play their iconic Black Album in full to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Expect to hear classics like Enter Sandman, Nothing Else Matters, The Unforgiven, and more.
Bring Me The Horizon
Bring Me The Horizon are one of the most successful and innovative bands in modern rock. The band has evolved from their metalcore roots to incorporate elements of pop, electronic, and orchestral music into their sound. Bring Me The Horizon have sold over four million albums worldwide, won two Kerrang! Awards, and headlined arenas and festivals around the world. Bring Me The Horizon will headline the Saturday night of Download 2023, and they will showcase their latest album Post Human: Survival Horror, as well as their previous hits like Throne, Drown, Shadow Moses, and more.
Slipknot
Slipknot are the masters of mayhem, and they're returning to Download for the fourth time in their career. The band has revolutionized the genre of nu metal with their aggressive and experimental sound. Slipknot have sold over 30 million albums worldwide, won a Grammy Award, and created a loyal fanbase known as Maggots. Slipknot will headline the Sunday night of Download 2023, and they will unleash their latest album We Are Not Your Kind, as well as their classic anthems like Wait and Bleed, Psychosocial, Duality, and more.
The other acts of Download Festival 2023
Besides the headliners, Download Festival 2023 also features a diverse and exciting lineup of other acts. You can find over 100 bands across five stages at Download, covering every subgenre of rock and metal. Here are some of the other acts that you can look forward to at Download 2023:
Some highlights from the lineup
Korn: The pioneers of nu metal will bring their heavy riffs and grooves to Download 2023. Korn have sold over 40 million albums worldwide, won two Grammy Awards, and influenced a generation of bands with their distinctive sound. Korn will play songs from their latest album The Nothing, as well as their classics like Freak on a Leash, Blind, Got the Life, and more.
Deftones: The alternative metal legends will grace Download 2023 with their atmospheric and melodic sound. Deftones have sold over 10 million albums worldwide, won a Grammy Award, and earned critical acclaim for their artistic vision. Deftones will perform songs from their latest album Ohms, as well as their fan favourites like Change, My Own Summer, Be Quiet and Drive, and more.
Ghost: The mysterious and theatrical band will bring their occult rock to Download 2023. Ghost have won a Grammy Award, topped the charts in several countries, and amassed a cult following with their catchy and sinister songs. Ghost will play songs from their upcoming fifth album, as well as their hits like Square Hammer, Rats, Cirice, and more.
Volbeat: The Danish rockers will rock Download 2023 with their unique blend of metal, rockabilly, and punk. Volbeat have sold over six million albums worldwide, won multiple awards, and collaborated with legends like King Diamond and Rob Caggiano. Volbeat will play songs from their latest album Rewind, Replay, Rebound, as well as their classics like Lola Montez, Still Counting, Sad Man's Tongue, and more.
Megadeth: The thrash metal icons will unleash their fury at Download 2023. Megadeth have sold over 38 million albums worldwide, won a Grammy Award, and created some of the most influential albums in metal history. Megadeth will play songs from their upcoming 16th album, as well as their anthems like Symphony of Destruction, Peace Sells, Hangar 18, and more.
How to discover new bands at Download Festival
Download Festival is not only about the big names, but also about the new and upcoming bands that deserve your attention. If you want to discover some fresh and exciting talent at Download 2023, here are some tips:
Check out the smaller stages: Download Festival has five stages: the Main Stage, the Second Stage, the Avalanche Stage, the Dogtooth Stage, and the NXT UK Stage. While the Main Stage and the Second Stage host the most famous acts, the other stages offer a more intimate and diverse experience. You can find bands from different genres and backgrounds on these stages, such as punk rock, hardcore, metalcore, pop rock, indie rock, and more. Some of the bands that you can catch on these stages are Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, Skindred, Code Orange, Creeper, Yonaka, and more.
Use the Download app: Download Festival has an official app that you can download for free on your smartphone. The app allows you to browse the lineup by day or by stage, create your own schedule, get notifications about your favourite bands, and discover new bands based on your preferences. You can also listen to playlists curated by Download Festival on Spotify or Apple Music.
Ask for recommendations: One of the best things about Download Festival is the community of rock fans that attend it. You can meet new people and make new friends at Download 2023 by chatting with them about music. You can ask them for recommendations on what bands to watch or what songs to listen to. You might find some hidden gems that you wouldn't have found otherwise.
How to prepare for Download Festival 2023?
Download Festival 2023 is going to be an amazing experience that you'll never forget. But to make sure that you enjoy it to the fullest, you need to prepare for it properly. Here are some of the things that you need to consider before you go to Download 2023:
What to pack for Download Festival
Packing for Download Festival can be tricky because you need to balance between bringing enough stuff to be comfortable and not bringing too much stuff to carry around. Here are some of the things that you should pack for Download 2023:
The essentials
Your ticket: This is obvious but very important. You need your ticket to enter the festival site and access your camping spot. Make sure you print it out or have it on your phone.
Your ID: You also need your ID to prove your age and identity. You might need it to buy alcohol or enter certain areas of the festival. Make sure you bring a valid form of ID such as a passport or a driver's license.
Your money: You'll need money to buy food, drink , merchandise, or other things at the festival. You can use cash or card at most of the stalls and vendors, but it's always good to have some cash on you in case of emergencies or technical issues. You can also use the ATMs on site, but they might charge you a fee or run out of cash.
Your phone and charger: You'll need your phone to communicate with your friends, take photos and videos, check the app, and more. You'll also need a charger to keep your phone battery alive. You can bring a portable charger or a solar charger, or you can use the charging stations on site for a small fee.
Your clothes and shoes: You'll need to dress appropriately for Download Festival, considering the weather, the activities, and the style. You'll need comfortable clothes that can keep you warm or cool depending on the temperature. You'll also need waterproof clothes in case it rains, such as a raincoat, a poncho, or a waterproof jacket. You'll also need sturdy shoes that can handle the mud and the walking, such as boots, wellies, or trainers. You might also want to bring some extra clothes and shoes in case they get wet or dirty.
Your toiletries and hygiene items: You'll need to maintain your hygiene and health at Download Festival, especially if you're camping. You'll need basic toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc. You'll also need some hygiene items such as toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, tissues, etc. You might also want to bring some sunscreen, insect repellent, painkillers, plasters, etc.
The optional items
Your tent and sleeping bag: If you're camping at Download Festival, you'll need a tent and a sleeping bag to sleep in. You might also want to bring a mat or an airbed to make your sleeping more comfortable. You can also bring some extra blankets or pillows if you want. Make sure you choose a tent that is easy to set up and pack up, and that is suitable for the weather and the size of your group.
Your food and drink: You can buy food and drink at Download Festival from a variety of stalls and vendors that offer different cuisines and options. However, you might also want to bring some food and drink of your own to save some money or to have some snacks in between meals. You can bring some non-perishable food such as crisps, biscuits, nuts, cereal bars, etc. You can also bring some water bottles or soft drinks to stay hydrated. You can also bring some alcohol if you want, but only in plastic bottles or cans.
Your entertainment items: You'll have plenty of entertainment at Download Festival from the music and the attractions, but you might also want to bring some entertainment items of your own to have some fun in your spare time or at your campsite. You can bring some games such as cards, board games, dice, etc. You can also bring some books, magazines, comics, etc. You can also bring some musical instruments such as guitars, ukuleles , etc. You can also bring some gadgets such as cameras, speakers, headphones, etc.
What to expect at Download Festival
Download Festival is a unique and unforgettable experience that will make you feel alive and happy. However, it also comes with some challenges and surprises that you need to be aware of and prepared for. Here are some of the things that you can expect at Download 2023:
The weather and the mud
Download Festival is notorious for its unpredictable and often rainy weather. You never know what the weather will be like at Download, so you need to be ready for anything. It can be sunny and warm, or it can be cold and wet, or it can be both in the same day. You need to check the weather forecast before you go, and pack accordingly. You also need to embrace the mud, because it's inevitable at Download. The mud can make walking, camping, and dancing more difficult, but it can also make it more fun and memorable. You need to wear appropriate shoes, protect your belongings, and have a sense of humour about it.
The food and drink options
Download Festival has a wide range of food and drink options to suit every taste and budget. You can find different cuisines from around the world, such as Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Italian, etc. You can also find vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. You can also find some traditional festival food such as burgers, hot dogs, pizza, chips, etc. You can also find some sweet treats such as ice cream, doughnuts, crepes, etc. You can also find some drinks such as beer, cider, wine, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, water, etc. You can also bring your own food and drink if you prefer.
The camping and facilities
Download Festival has several campsites that you can choose from depending on your ticket type and preference. The campsites are divided into zones that are colour-coded and named after rock bands or songs. The campsites have different vibes and atmospheres, so you can find one that suits your mood and style. The campsites also have different facilities such as toilets, showers, water points, lockers , shops, bars, etc. You can also find some entertainment and activities at the campsites, such as music, comedy, games, etc. You need to respect the rules and the neighbours at the campsites, and keep them clean and safe.
Conclusion
Download Festival 2023 is going to be an epic celebration of rock and metal music that you don't want to miss. It's a festival that has something for everyone, whether you're a hardcore fan or a casual listener. It's a festival that will make you feel part of a community of rock lovers that share your passion and enthusiasm. It's a festival that will create memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now and join the party at Download 2023!
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Download Festival 2023:
Q: When and where is Download Festival 2023? A: Download Festival 2023 is on June 9-11, 2023 at Donington Park in Leicestershire, England.
Q: How can I get to Download Festival 2023? A: You can get to Download Festival 2023 by plane, train, car, bus, or coach. You can find more information on the official website.
Q: How can I buy tickets for Download Festival 2023? A: You can buy tickets for Download Festival 2023 on the official website. You can choose from different types of tickets, depending on how long you want to stay and what kind of experience you want. You can also use the instalment plan to pay for your ticket in four monthly payments.
Q: What are the rules and regulations of Download Festival 2023? A: You need to follow the rules and regulations of Download Festival 2023 to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. You can find the full list of rules and regulations on the official website.
Q: What are some tips and tricks for Download Festival 2023? A: Some tips and tricks for Download Festival 2023 are: - Plan your schedule in advance and use the app to keep track of your favourite bands. - Pack wisely and bring enough clothes, shoes, toiletries, food, drink, and entertainment items for the duration of your stay. - Dress appropriately for the weather and the mud, and bring waterproof and warm clothing. - Stay hydrated and eat well, and avoid drinking too much alcohol or taking any drugs. - Be respectful and friendly to other festival-goers, staff, and artists, and have fun!
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