TRUCK Festival 2025: I took my kids to their first music festival – here’s what happened
What happens when you swap the lads for the kids and head to a festival? One Rolling Stone UK dad finds out
This summer, I did something I never thought I’d do. I took the kids to a music festival.
As a parent who loves live music but also appreciates a bit of structure (and a seat), the idea of bringing them to TRUCK Festival was both exciting and slightly daunting. Would it be too loud? Too crowded? Too exhausting? I genuinely wasn’t sure what to expect – but I’m so glad we gave it a go.
From the moment we arrived, any concerns started to fade. The first thing I noticed was the space. TRUCK never felt packed. There was room to roam, wander between tents, and actually enjoy yourself. That alone made things easier with children in tow.
The organisers had clearly thought about families. Away from the main stages was a dedicated family zone that felt like a mini festival in its own right. It was full of activities like arts and crafts, circus toys, music-making, and creative workshops that went far beyond just keeping the kids busy. For us adults, it also meant a chance to sit down and enjoy a quiet moment.
The weather helped. Warm and sunny, it was ideal for spreading out a picnic blanket and letting the sound from the main stage drift over. We dipped in and out of sets throughout the day, balancing snacks and downtime with dancing and discovery.
When it came to food, we were spoilt for choice. Mexican, Chinese, curry, burgers – it was all there. The drinks tents were well stocked and the accessible bars, with lower counters, were a welcome touch. Unsurprisingly, the ice cream vans were the most popular stop with the kids (and with us too).
A highlight of the day was the giant Ferris wheel. From the top, you could see the whole site, a patchwork of crowds, music and movement that made everything feel that bit more special. Afterwards, we found a row of free hammocks and spent a while swinging gently in the sun, soaking it all in before heading off to explore more music.
We didn’t stay late (bedtime routines still apply) but we had a full and brilliant day. There was more than enough to keep everyone entertained, and it was great to see so many other families there doing the same thing. Sharing the experience of live music with my kids, in a safe and welcoming space, was something I’ll remember for a long time.
Would I take my kids to a festival again? Absolutely. Based on this experience, it’s a great entry point to the world of live music for children. You just need a picnic blanket, a bit of prep … and an ice cream or two along the way.
We went to TRUCK Festival courtesy of Tixel, a resale platform that’s gaining traction among music fans looking for a less stressful way to secure last-minute tickets. Rather than sitting in virtual queues, you can join a waiting list, set the price you’re willing to pay, and let the platform handle the rest. All tickets go through anti-fraud checks before being listed, and £1 from each sale is donated to the Live Trust to support grassroots venues. It’s also easy to sell your spare ticket if plans change, without resorting to group chats or riskier reselling routes.