Sir Michael Eavis, the legendary founder of Glastonbury Festival, celebrated his 90th birthday in grand style with a festive gathering in the village of Pilton, where he has lived for decades. The milestone occasion featured heartfelt moments, including Sir Michael performing some of his favorite songs with his band, bringing his community together in celebration.
In a recent interview on the official Glastonbury Festival website, Sir Michael shared reflections on this year’s festival and his enduring passion for collaborating with creative talents. He highlighted Neil Young as his standout artist of the event, praising the legend’s memorable Saturday night performance.
“The most recent festival always feels like the best,” Sir Michael said. “But there were many challenges along the way – at one point, the chairman of the magistrates warned me, ‘If you do this again, you’ve had it.’ And yet, here we are today.”
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Sir Michael emphasized that the festival continues to carry a powerful political message, something the audience has come to expect. Looking back on the early days, he recalled the constant battles with local authorities and community members, admitting that those struggles were integral to the festival’s success.
Asked what advice he would give to his younger self at the start of the festival journey, he responded, “The fight with the council and police was tough, but ultimately it was worth it. That conflict made the festival what it is.”
Beyond the festival, Sir Michael has been deeply involved in supporting the Pilton community, donating millions to improve local housing and amenities. He fondly remembers when footballer Gary Lineker helped open new homes, bringing wider attention to the village’s development.
“My mother would be proud of what’s been achieved with those houses,” he reflected. “Whenever I drive past them on a sunny day, I still wonder, ‘How did all this happen?’”
As for his birthday celebration, Sir Michael revealed plans to host a party with family and locals, with the highlight being a surprise musical set: “I’ll be singing three songs with my band,” he shared, keeping the song choices a secret until the event.
Sir Michael Eavis’s 90th birthday not only marked a personal milestone but also celebrated the remarkable legacy of the Glastonbury Festival and its enduring bond with the Pilton community.