Festival Merchandise Trends in 2025
What Do Festivalgoers Really Want?
2025 Merch Trends Revealed
As the 2025 festival season heats up, so too does the opportunity for brands to leave a lasting impression. The British Promotional Merchandise Association (BPMA) recently surveyed 200 festivalgoers to discover what merchandise they’d love to receive this year — and the results speak volumes about changing consumer preferences.
Practical pieces like bucket hats, reusable water bottles, crossbody bags and eco ponchos are right at the top of the list. They’re easy to carry around, useful during the event, and tick the box for style too. Plus, with sustainability now a big focus, festivalgoers are leaning towards merch that feels a bit more thoughtful and eco-friendly. . The British Promotional Merchandise Association (BPMA) asked a group of festivalgoers: What type of merch would you most like to receive at a festival? From reusable tote bags to bucket hats to t-shirts, the answers covered all the classics, but there was one clear winner that came out on top….
Results:
Wearability Wins: Printed Tees Take the Lead
Topping the list at 33%, printed T-shirts or vests were the most desired merchandise item. It’s a clear signal that fans want something wearable, memorable, and Instagram-worthy. Festivals are more than music; they’re identity statements, and branded tees make fans feel part of the moment while offering long-term brand visibility long after the night.
Water Bottles
Closely following were reusable water bottles (20%). These results highlight a growing trend that sustainability matters. Festival-goers are becoming more eco-conscious, and brands that provide reusable, functional items are not only aligning with audience values but also ensuring their merchandise gets used again and again.
Tote Bags
Reusable tote bags (16%). These results highlight a growing trend that sustainability matters. Festival-goers are becoming more eco-conscious, and brands that provide reusable, functional items are not only aligning with audience values but also ensuring their merchandise gets used again and again.
Bucket Hats
Bucket hats (8%) – A stylish but slightly less essential accessory – more for show or on the day use
Bespoke or Limited Edition
Experiential & Exclusive Works: Limited edition pieces still create buzz, especially when tied to artists or collaborationsLimited edition / a one off design (12%) – Suggesting that exclusivity and something more personalised works well.
Ponchos
Branded ponchos/rainwear (6%) – A practical choice for the unpredictable British summer.
LED Accessories
LED accessories (5%) – Fun, but perhaps less likely to be reused post-event.
Key Takeaways for Brands
- Functionality First: Fans want merch they can use, wear, and re-wear. Reusables and clothing dominate.
- Eco-Friendly Is Essential: Sustainability is not just a bonus — it’s a baseline expectation these days.
- Experiential & Exclusive Works: Limited edition pieces still create buzz, especially when tied to artists or collaborations.
Final Thought
If you’re planning your festival merch for 2025, this is your sign to keep it practical, wearable, and something people actually want. Think printed vests, refillable bottles, bucket hats—stuff that’s useful on the day and still gets worn after. It’s the easiest way to make sure your brand stands out, not just in the crowd but in people’s minds too.
If any of these products take your fancy, please let us know and we’ll be happy to send you a quotation or visual! For inspiration check out our merch website by clicking here.