Arcadia is set to captivate festivalgoers once again as its acclaimed Dragonfly installation returns to Glastonbury 2025. First unveiled to rave reviews at Glastonbury 2024, this breathtaking sculpture — forged from a decommissioned Royal Navy helicopter — symbolizes transformation by turning a relic of military power into a mesmerizing work of art.
Located at Worthy Farm, the Dragonfly embodies the fusion of technology, artistry, and human ambition. For the upcoming festival, the installation receives major upgrades, including dazzling laser-illuminated wings and new fiery ring effects. Each evening at sunset, the Dragonfly will emerge from its ‘nymph state,’ unfurling its expansive wings through a spectacular display of fire, booming basslines, and ethereal lighting that will enchant the crowd deep into the night.
Music will play a pivotal role with an electrifying lineup featuring Four Tet, Annie Mac back-to-back with Jamz Supernova, Michael Bibi paired with Solomun, alongside acts like Sonny Fodera, Shy FX b2b Eats Everything, Groove Armada b2b Jungle (DJ Set), and Job Jobse b2b Palms Trax. Additional performances include Max Cooper, Girls Don’t Sync, Bru-C, Logic1000, Eva Lazarus, Hannah Wants, Romy from the xx, Optimo (Espacio), Danny Howard, Basslayerz b2b Born on Road, Dr Banana b2b Gallegos, and Jeremiah Asiamah, promising a diverse and immersive auditory experience.
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Arcadia founders Pip Rush and Bert Cole praised last year’s response, reflecting: “The energy and scale of the crowds around The Dragonfly was unforgettable. Witnessing such a strong, communal reaction to a symbol that transforms machinery of destruction into collective joy was profoundly moving.” They shared their excitement for 2025, emphasizing the installation’s message: “Our work explores the intersection of technology and human intent, especially poignant amid the rise of AI and global conflict. The Dragonfly’s very DNA echoes peace and hope.”
Continuing their collaboration with the Wadjuk Noongar nation of Perth, the festival will feature Waraloo — a captivating midnight ceremony on Friday and Saturday and late Sunday — blending ancient Noongar dragonfly songs with dynamic soundscapes, creating a deeply immersive cultural experience.
Glastonbury’s commitment to renewable energy remains steadfast. Powered entirely without fossil fuels since 2023, the festival again partners with Grid Faeries — a sustainable energy initiative by Dale Vince (Ecotricity) and Claire O’Neill (A Greener Future) — to energize the Dragonfly using advanced battery systems designed specifically for outdoor events. This eco-conscious power source underscores the Dragonfly’s role as a beacon of environmental innovation.
Dale Vince expressed enthusiasm about returning, stating, “We’re thrilled to power the Dragonfly with the largest-ever festival batteries, marking a new era in sustainable event energy.” Claire O’Neill added, “From performing aerials on Arcadia’s Spider to now powering this installation, it highlights our shared commitment to innovation and the festival’s enduring spirit.”
Beyond the Dragonfly, Arcadia’s festival presence includes The Bug — a six-wheeled, amphibious cousin sculpture crafted from submarine molds, bringing a carnival vibe and eclectic performances across the grounds. Families can also explore The Alchemists' Playground, an interactive partnership with Woodland Tribe offering creative workshops where children weld recycled metal, practice circus skills, and build imaginative playgrounds. This vibrant, family-friendly area embodies Arcadia’s ethos of repurposing, creativity, and hands-on engagement.
Glastonbury 2025 promises to be a landmark celebration, where art, music, technology, culture, and sustainability converge in a thrilling, unforgettable experience.