Iryana Mosina - Recreational Use of Psychedelics at Festivals. Breaking Convention; Here & Now 2024

Psychedelic substances are used in various, often commercially diverse settings across global and UK festivals. Beyond being mere recreational spaces, these environments offer potent, sometimes life-changing experiences that promote interconnectedness, catharsis, and community belonging. These festivals frequently serve as microcosms for the broader society, providing an opportunity for experimentation in a shared setting. Psychedelic use at festivals often includes elements of art, social ritual, and personal growth, but carries risks that require careful navigation. Attendees frequently cite motivation for seeking improved mental health or expanded consciousness, yet a significant portion report difficulties navigating challenging psychedelic experiences on-site. The lack of standardized safe-space provision leaves many without essential harm-reduction support during intense, sometimes difficult, states of mind.