Download Festival 2026: Campers told to take down gazebos due to 'weather conditions'

Campers who erected gazebos on arrival at Donington Park have been told to take them down due to weather expectations.

Thousands of rock fans arrived at the park yesterday(June 10) for the start of Download Festival XXIII, with headline acts scheduled to come to the arena from tomorrow (June 12) - including Guns N Roses, Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park.

Several campers erected gazebos as they joined friends at the campsite - which is allowed, according to the festival website. However, due to weather conditions they have now been asked to take them down.

Many reported in Facebook groups that they were being approached to take them down last night, when rain was on and off. But this morning (June 11), festival goers were sent a notification via the official app stating that they “must be taken down due to expected weather conditions.”

The same warning also appears on the festivals’ social media pages, which has been met with fans poking fun at the intense rain this morning. One joked: “The campsite has officially been renamed HMS Download. Replace your wristbands with lifejackets!”

Another said: “I remember holding our gazebo down in 2013 during a storm,” while a third commented: “Don’t forget ya boats.”

Others seemed confused as to why gazebos need to be taken down in adverse weather conditions. But according to Gazebo Shop’s weather safety advice page, they should be taken down during periods of heavy rain and strong wind to prevent damage and ensure safety.

High winds can loosen or bend the frame, while heavy rain can cause water to collect on the roof, adding extra weight and increasing the risk of collapse. Taking down a gazebo before bad weather arrives helps protect the structure, extends its lifespan, and reduces the chance of injury or property damage.

Take a look at the full Met Office forecast for the rest of the event below.

Full Met Office Forecast for Download (updated 4am, June 11)

Today:

A day of cloud and rain, the rain persistent and at times heavy across the Peak District, will spread eastwards across the area through the morning. Becoming breezy, especially over western hills. Feeling humid. The rain easing later. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

Tonight:

Rain will clear through the evening, leaving a few clear spells, especially in the east, although an isolated shower remains possible. Mild and breezy. Minimum temperature 13 °C.

Friday:

Variable cloud and sunny spells expected for much of the day, many areas remaining dry but a few light outbreaks of rain are possible at times. Breezy. Maximum temperature 22 °C.

Outlook for Saturday to Monday:

Generally dry through this period with patchy cloud and sunny spells. Breezy on Saturday but winds falling light for Sunday and Monday. Feeling warm, especially in the sunshine.