Smartphones, social media, and street food have emerged as the biggest trends for festival season 2026, according to new research.
The Vodafone Connected Crowd Report reveals that 87% of festival-goers consider reliable connectivity essential to enjoying a festival weekend, outranking traditional essentials like tents and wellies.
Phones outrank friends
Notably, 14% would rather lose their tent, 20% would part with their wellies, and 16% would prefer losing their friends over their phones.
Connectivity is influencing every aspect of festival life, from discovering artists to planning outfits and finding food stalls. Social media drives decisions on which acts to see, with 81% searching online before attending.
Fashion and food trends
Charli XCX is the most talked-about act on social media this summer, while viral sensation Sienna Spiro is tipped as a breakout star.
Festival fashion is increasingly online-driven: 77% plan outfits in advance, with TikTok surpassing friends, Instagram, and celebrities as the top inspiration source. Practical looks are replacing glitter, with searches for "comfy festival outfits," "festival head scarf," and "boho festival outfits" trending.
Food is now as important as music: 67% expect high-quality options, 63% seek globally inspired dishes, and 60% say posting a meal photo on social media is as important as eating it.
Connectivity's growing role
With 76% planning to document their weekend online, this is expected to be the most shared festival season yet. For 80%, connectivity is key to staying in touch with friends and family. Two-thirds have video-called during live performances, reflecting the rise of the "remote festival goer."
A Vodafone spokesperson said: "At Vodafone, our ambition has always been to connect people to the UK's biggest moments, on The Nation's Network."
"We've seen data usage continue to grow across the festivals we support, reflecting the increasingly important role connectivity plays in the festival experience."
"Whether it's helping people stay in touch with friends in a busy crowd, navigate the site, or share unforgettable moments as they happen, reliable connectivity has become an essential part of making the most of a festival."
"That's why we're committed to providing the best possible network experience, so festival goers can stay connected and enjoy every moment."
