AIF Calls for Music Festival Tax Relief to Secure the Future of UK Events

The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) is leading the charge, formally submitting a proposal to the UK Government for a Music Festival Tax Relief. Inspired by proven models like the Theatre and Orchestra Tax Reliefs, the initiative is designed to support smaller events under 30,000 capacity, offering tax relief on creative and music-related costs. If approved, it could provide a vital financial safety net to both established and emerging festivals.

The proposal arrives as Homestead Festival, a new 2,000-capacity event in Somerset, announced its cancellation this week. While disappointing, its story underscores the real potential of the AIF’s vision: had the proposed tax relief been in place, Homestead could have welcomed thousands through its gates this summer.

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“All the ingredients were there for a wonderful new festival,” said AIF CEO John Rostron, “but the pressure on events is making it too difficult to get over the line. A Music Festival Tax Relief would have given Homestead the space it needed. This is about unlocking potential and giving new ideas the room to grow.”

The industry has weathered a challenging few years, with 249 UK festivals lost since 2019, including 96 to the pandemic. Yet the drop in closures this year offers real hope. So far, 2025 has seen fewer cancellations than at this point in either of the two previous years, and many organisers are feeling cautiously optimistic about the road ahead.

With the AIF leading a united effort and the sector already stabilising, the stage is set for a more sustainable and innovative future, especially if policymakers act.

A Shared Opportunity for Growth

The proposed Music Festival Tax Relief isn’t just about avoiding closures; it’s about reinvigorating creativity, supporting local economies, and giving the next generation of festivals a platform to thrive.

Promoters and industry professionals are encouraged to get involved and support the AIF’s campaign. Learn how to do so and join the movement at aiforg.com.

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