2025 would mark 21 years since I first attended Download Festival at Castle Donnington, and years later - a little bit older and unfit - I plan to do it all again this year.
Taking place at the former home of Monsters of Rock across June 13 to June 15 2025 this year, gone are the days where I’ll be up until the crack of dawn drinking with other campers - instead, I plan on getting a good night sleep somewhere, preferably with a shower and some nice bedding.
I can hear some of you using the term ‘glamping’ and I’m not afraid to admit yes, I think I’ll be glamping this year.
But this year’s line-up has a host of nostalgia for those of us who grew up during the era of P-Rock, Kerrang! TV and Scuzz, including headliners Korn and Green Day. But a look further down the bill, there are some hidden gems worth checking out too at this year’s event.
So who are the 21 acts I am looking forward to seeing already confirmed for Download 2025? Read on and find out!
13. Filter
One of two throwback bands I was more than happy to see on the bill, Filter are set to perform at Download Festival, and I will be amongst the crowd singing Hey Man Nice Shot and Take A Picture during Richard Patrick's performance. | Getty Images
14. Kittie
That other 'throwback' band happens to be Kittie, who I saw open for Slipknot during the band's self-titled album tour over 20 years ago. On that occasion when met with misogynistic calls in the venue, lead singer Morgan Lander (pictured) proceeded in a death metal growl to tell the men in the audience to perform a sex act on her. They all shut up afterwards. | Getty Images
15. Bullet for My Valentine
Welsh rockers Bullet for my Valentine will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of debut album 'The Poison' in 2025. What better birthday party for the album than a spot at the top of the bill in Donington. | Getty Images
16. Karen Dió
Karen Dió is a rising Brazilian punk rocker whose music is as dynamic and transient as her journey through life. Having grown up constantly on the move, Dió developed an ability to remain detached from the material world, a mindset that has shaped both her personal and professional path. In July 2023, her single "Sick Ride" catapulted her into the spotlight, going viral in a way she never expected | Provided