Reading Festival seeks licence for fourth day of main stage music

Reading Festival organisers Festival Republic have applied for a licensing change to allow amplified music on the main stage on Thursdays, adding a fourth day of performances. Currently, Wednesday and Thursday serve as warm-up days for campers, with main acts on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The proposal would permit music from 17:00 BST until midnight on Thursdays, pending approval from Reading Borough Council. If granted, the change would take effect from 2027. Additionally, organisers seek to extend alcohol sales hours. The festival has evolved since the pandemic, including a shift from two main stages (2021-2023) to the Chevron Stage in 2024. This year's lineup features British stars Charli XCX, Dave, and Raye as headliners, alongside Fontaines DC, Chase & Status, and Florence + The Machine. The events run from 27 to 30 August at Richfield Avenue in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds, with artists rotating performance days. Over 100,000 attendees visit each year.