Other first-day highlights included country legend Willie Nelson, British rapper Dizzee Rascal, US quartet Vampire Weekend and hip-hop veteran Mos Def. The three day sunshine brought joy all around in contrast to last year's festival where thunderstorm and Michael Jackson’s death filled the air with a tense pause.

Aussie pop star Kylie Minogue confirmed that she would finally be making an appearance after being forced to pull out five years ago when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. There was Snoop Dogg's performance later in the day which epitomised the festival's inclusive spirit. Harry Potter star Emma Watson was also spotted on site, enjoying drinks in the sun with a group of friends.

Some acts on the bill on Friday include Florence and the Machine, Groove Armada, Femi Kuti, The xx, Fatboy Slim and Mumford & Sons. With the festival celebrating the fortieth anniversary of the first event, nearly a thousand hippies turned up to watch Marc Bolan at Michael Eavis' dairy farm in Pilton, Somerset.

"It's been emotional, we were disappointed when U2 pulled out but we've got a great line-up in place and we think it's going to be the best festival ever." said one of the organizers.