If you’re in the know, you’re in the know. Block9 sits on the outskirts of Worthy Farm like a wild dream from a night of too many drinks and not enough sleep. It’s definitely a journey to reach it (prepare for muddy trails and seemingly endless lines), but trust me, every step is worth it. This is where those who leave early from headliner performances rush to grab prime dancefloor spots, and it's also where Mixmag has boldly declared “one of the best clubs in the world” resides. They said it first, but I wholeheartedly agree.
Glastonbury is preparing for a final grand celebration before its traditional fallow year in 2026, and Block9 is set to deliver a weekend lineup that’s nothing short of spectacular. Picture a hedonistic playground filled with underground music, queer culture, groundbreaking performances, and stunning theatrics. It’s a guaranteed festival highlight where every night is legendary, and every sunrise is hard-earned.
So, what’s new for 2025?
Block9 East is back with its standout feature, IICON, a massive, surreal head that serves as both an immersive audiovisual arena and a stark reflection on our digital dystopia. This isn’t just a stage; it’s a fully immersive experience designed to both unsettle and amaze. The excitement kicks off Thursday night with thrilling performances from The House of Xtravaganza’s immensely talented THOG (Rush Davis), alongside the innovative sounds of Pearson Sound. Friday shifts into techno mode with electronic pioneer Juan Atkins performing live as Cybotron, paired with the enigmatic and highly innovative UK duo Two Shell. Saturday ramps up the energy even more with acid-house legends Paranoid London, vibrant DJ SHYBOI, Brooklyn’s Makadsi delivering hypnotic Arabic-infused beats, and BBC Radio 1’s own Benji B making his much-anticipated debut at IICON.
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The daytime Block Party extends its reach this year, spanning Genosys and The NYC Downlow from Saturday afternoon, providing festival-goers with an electrifying prelude to the night ahead. Heavyweights like Derrick Carter, Jayda G, Don Letts, Fatboy Slim, Hot Chip, Luke Solomon, and emerging star Melle Brown are set to bring sunny beats and infectious energy. As always, Block9 is tight-lipped about surprise performances, but past years suggest you should expect some truly memorable cameos.
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Over at Block9 West, Genosys continues to honor the rich history of analogue electronic music. Starting Thursday, keep an eye out for the must-see set from Mina Galan and Chicago’s Garrett David showcasing a brand-new live act. Amsterdam’s favorite, Anil Aras, is set to deliver his signature house sounds, perfectly warming the crowd for Sunday’s euphoric acid house ritual led by New York legend Justin Strauss, festival icon Craig Richards, and the ever-reliable Felix Dickinson. Queer rave staples Chapter 10 and Aaron Clark from Honcho also promise essential dancefloor moments throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, The NYC Downlow remains the vibrant heart of Block9, a beloved queer refuge known for creating some of Glastonbury’s most transcendent experiences. The most anticipated event here is certainly Chicago house legend Derrick Carter’s headline set. Grammy-winning producer Luke Solomon, who has worked with stars like Beyoncé, will join him on the turntables. Also performing are Motor City Drum Ensemble, LA’s emerging talent Colored Craig, the timeless Gerd Janson, and Luke Howard from Horse Meat Disco, who will lead the weekend’s grand finale. Each night will be enriched by iconic drag performances from Jonny Woo’s group, Maude Adams & All Those Children, with themed shows ranging from the notorious Underwear Party to Sunday’s spectacular homage to John Waters: A Night of 1000 Divines.
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Nestled discreetly behind The Downlow, The Meat Rack offers a more intimate and undeniably seductive environment. This year’s roster of ‘sleazy backroom selectors’ is truly impressive, featuring memorable sets from Seth Troxler, NIKS, Nicholas Matar, Nabihah Iqbal, Groove Armada’s Andy Cato, and Deptford Northern Soul Club, each bringing their unique sound to this atmospheric hideaway.
Ultimately, the magic of Block9 lies in its unpredictability. Last year, Dua Lipa was spotted letting loose after her headline set, and Charli XCX spontaneously joined dancers on stage that same night. With 2026 planned as a fallow year, the anticipation is at a fever pitch. Imagine the thrill of knowing this is your last chance for two years to immerse yourself in Block9’s electric chaos? So our advice is don’t just show up – dive in headfirst, embrace the madness, and lose yourself completely. Honestly, sleep can wait. Block9 is calling, and this party won’t stop until the sun rises on Monday.
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Words: Max Cocking
Loyle Carner is the inaugural personality of Clash 131. The London-based lyricist Loyle Carner has consistently aimed to convey honesty through his work. His acclaimed hip-hop style fuses
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