As other European festivals began to be cancelled, the organizers of Download Festival tried to be optimistic promising “we’re continuing to work behind the scenes to get ready for Download this summer and hope to have more news for you by March 1st.” Well, today is March 1st, and I'm afraid I've got some bad news.
The 2021 version of the festival is officially off. On the plus side, three headliners have been confirmed for the 2022 version of the fest.
Kiss, Iron Maiden and Biffy Clyro are all confirmed to playing Download 2022. Let's hope, we've reached proper herd immunity/vaccinations by next summer so we can resume going buckwild at outdoor festivals. Unfortunately, System of a Down, who were scheduled as a headliner this year, are out for next year.
Festival organizers note “Following the announcement of the Government’s roadmap and despite the extraordinary efforts the NHS have put in to roll out the vaccine, we can sadly now confirm that Download Festival will no longer be taking place this year, but we have exciting news for 2022.
“We never gave up hope of bringing the festival back to Donington this June and had been working so hard behind the scenes to make that happen, but sadly, we now know it’s not possible. We’re heartbroken for everyone in the Download family, from artists to suppliers and of course our passionate Download fans.
“We’ll be back on June 10th-12th 2022, as strong as ever, with an amazing set of headliners – Kiss, Iron Maiden, and Biffy Clyro.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the NHS for their extraordinary efforts in rolling out the vaccine, as well as thanking all of you for your patience and for keeping the spirit of Download alive until we can be together again.
“You are very welcome to retain your ticket and carry it over to next year. Alternatively, you will be able to receive a refund from your ticket agent. Look out for an e-mail from them very soon and please only contact them if you have not been contacted after 5 days as they are very busy at this time.
“Please read our refund FAQ’s before emailing with any questions – it’s likely you’ll find your answer there!
“Horns up. We’ll see you in 2022.
“Team Download”
