Laneway

No Teenage Dream: Laneway Festival Says '18 or Bust'!

Laneway Festival drops a bombshell, refunding under-18 ticket holders as they lock the gates for younger fans in 2025!

In a surprising turn of events, Auckland’s cherished Laneway Festival has announced that it will not allow under-18s to attend their highly anticipated 2025 event. This decision came swiftly on the heels of an application submitted to the Auckland District Licensing Committee, which was ultimately turned down. Festival organizers, who often pride themselves on inclusivity, expressed their deep disappointment, stating that they were truly sorry for the thousands of young music lovers who eagerly anticipated this festival experience.

For many, the Laneway Festival is a rite of passage, and the cancellation of under-18 tickets is likely to leave a dent in the excitement of the younger demographic. Event planners had hoped to accommodate 16 and 17-year-olds, but the decision by the licensing committee has shifted gears entirely. As a result, all affected ticket holders in this age bracket will receive refunds, which was communicated in the festival’s official statement. Imagine planning your perfect festival outfit, only to find out the gates are closed for those under 18!

While the festival gears up for an adult-only environment, there’s still plenty to look forward to as the lineup is expected to be stellar. Many fans are already speculating about which big names in music will be gracing the stages, ready to make the festival an unforgettable experience for those who can attend. Meanwhile, experts in the music festival industry are curious how this restriction will affect attendance numbers—will more adults flock to fill the gaps, or will ticket sales take a hit?

As festival lovers everywhere process the news, it’s worth noting that Laneway has historically championed a family-friendly vibe. Last year’s festival saw a blend of ages enjoying the best in local and international music, creating a diverse and vibrant atmosphere. Interestingly, Auckland isn’t the only festival facing challenges; globally, events are constantly navigating the balance between safety regulations and providing access to younger fans. As this buzz unfolds, one question remains: what happens when the under-18s come knocking at the gates again?