How to Get Your Unsigned Band Booked for Festivals (Even Small Ones)

Break into the summer circuit by starting small, thinking smart and standing out

For unsigned bands, playing a festival isn’t just about the slot - it’s about exposure, credibility, networking and momentum. But you don’t need to wait for Glastonbury to call. The real opportunity lies in smaller, local and genre-focused festivals that actively look for emerging talent.

Here’s how to get your band on those lineups - and what you need to do it right.

Start With the Right Targets

Forget the massive headliner festivals (for now). Focus on:

• Local town and city festivals

• Community and council-run events

• Independent genre-specific festivals

• Student festivals or university music days

• Charity events and cause-based festivals

• Fringe or second-stage bookings at larger events

Search “apply to play [festival name]” or check sites like Apply to Play, Gigmit, or local promoter pages. Many unsigned band-friendly fests open applications 3–8 months in advance.

What You’ll Usually Need

A solid EPK (if you followed the last blog, you’re set)
Include links to music, live video, social handles, contact info and a short bio.

Live footage
Festivals want to see you perform. Even if it’s filmed in a rehearsal room, show energy and stage presence.

Some local buzz
They’re more likely to book your unsigned band if you’ve played gigs, built a following, or have press coverage - even just in your hometown.

Make Your Application Stand Out

• Personalise your message

• Highlight why you’d be a great fit for their vibe or lineup

• Link directly to your best video or single

• Mention previous local gigs or nearby festival experience

• Keep it concise and confident

If it’s a form submission, treat every text box seriously - don’t leave answers blank or lazy.

Use Social Proof Where You Can

Name-drop any artists you've supported, media you've been featured in, or notable gigs you’ve played. These details give the organiser confidence that you're reliable, professional and stage-ready.

Be Easy to Work With

Smaller festivals often have tight schedules and limited resources. Make sure your unsigned band is known as low-stress and high-quality:

• Have a basic tech spec ready

• Respond to emails promptly

• Promote your slot hard once confirmed

• Show up on time, be self-contained and bring energy

This gets you rebooked - and recommended.

Post-Festival? Use It Everywhere

Even if you’re playing the 2pm slot in a tent - treat it like a headline show. Film it Share it. Mention it in bios and future press. Tag the festival, network with other bands and follow up with organisers after the show to say thanks.

Festivals Are Stepping Stones

You don’t break into the festival scene all at once. But a few smart, well-targeted slots every summer build a story, create great content and prove that your unsigned band can handle a real stage.

And from there, bigger stages come naturally.