The music at Glastonbury 2025 is going to be louder and bolder than ever — but did you know that festival sound levels can hit 120 decibels? That’s way above the safe limit — and can lead to tinnitus or even permanent hearing damage if you’re not careful.
According to the RNID, more than 58% of festivalgoers have experienced tinnitus or temporary hearing loss after a live music event — and more than a third experience it repeatedly.
With Charli XCX, The 1975 and Olivia Rodrigo set to blast Worthy Farm this year — here’s how to protect your ears while still enjoying every beat of Glastonbury 2025. 🎶✨
1️⃣ Why Loud Music Can Damage Hearing
- Music above 85 decibels damages inner ear structures
- 120 dB levels common at front of stage
- Loud music causes temporary or permanent hearing loss + tinnitus (ringing in ears)
- Changes nerve fibres — affects brain’s perception of sound
2️⃣ Invest in PROPER Earplugs
Most festivals hand out free foam plugs — but if you’re serious about ear health:
✅ Buy high-fidelity earplugs (NRR 15–25 dB)
✅ These reduce volume while keeping music clear (no muffling)
✅ Example brands: Loop Earplugs, Alpine MusicSafe
You’ll still feel the bass — but save your hearing long-term.
3️⃣ Don’t Stand Too Close to the Speakers
Obvious — but ESSENTIAL.
✅ Stand at least 20 feet from speakers
✅ Avoid centre-front for long sets
✅ Rotate position through the day (less constant exposure)
4️⃣ Take Regular Breaks
✅ Build in quiet zone breaks
✅ Use chill-out tents, shaded areas
✅ Even popping to the loo gives your ears time to recover!
✅ Post-festival: avoid loud environments for 24 hours to give your ears full rest
5️⃣ Use a Decibel Meter App
✅ Apps tell you real-time decibel levels
✅ Smartwatches now give high noise alerts
✅ If it’s peaking — move further back
✅ A great way to become more aware of risks
6️⃣ Know the Warning Signs
🚨 Ringing or buzzing (tinnitus)
🚨 Muffled hearing
🚨 Dull sensation in one or both ears
If this happens mid-festival:
→ Move to quiet area ASAP
→ Wear earplugs remainder of the day
→ See audiologist post-festival if symptoms persist
7️⃣ Regular Hearing Checks = Essential
If you’re a regular gig/festival fan (like me!), build in regular hearing tests — it helps catch any early signs and avoid permanent damage.
Final Word from DECIBEL expert Tsvetan Nedkov:
“Making small changes to the way we manage noise exposure can have a huge positive impact on our long-term hearing health. Protect those ears — so you can enjoy the music for life!”
Sources:
DECIBEL | RNID | DECIBEL International