Moment Palestine protester shuts down gig as Download Festival stage evacuated

A pro-Palestine protester disrupted a DJ performance at Download Festival, prompting the evacuation of a tent and an early end to the set. The incident occurred during Modestep’s late-night show around 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, at "The Den" tent in Donington Park, Leicestershire.

The protester, holding a Palestinian flag, climbed a pillar during the performance. Despite the DJ's repeated pleas for him to come down, the individual remained in place, forcing security to clear the tent. Frustrated festivalgoers responded by throwing toilet paper and drinks at the protester.

After the evacuation, witnesses reported that the man climbed onto railings and moved along roof girders while waving the flag to the audience. Security personnel noted they were not legally allowed to climb after him.

Several performances over the weekend acknowledged the Israel-Hamas conflict. British rock band Don Broco mentioned it, while singer Frank Carter, performing with a reunited Sex Pistols, pointed to rainbow and Palestinian flags, calling them “the most punk things in 2025.”

The three-day festival concluded on Sunday, June 15, with Korn headlining. Sleep Token led Saturday’s lineup, while Green Day closed Friday night with a politically charged performance. During their set, frontman Billie Joe Armstrong criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump, leading the crowd in a chant and labeling him a “fascist.”

Festival organizers have yet to release an official statement regarding the protest incident.