Festival News

DOWNLOAD XXIII: District X Stage Reveals a Sensational 2026 Lineup: Five, Electric Six, Dick & Dom, The All American Rejects and more

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With less than three months to go, Download Festival has revealed the thrilling line-up for its ultimate playground, District X. Featuring the likes of Five, Electric Six, Dick & Dom, The All-American Rejects, Creeper, MODESTEP, Bat Sabbath, TokenGrass and all sorts of other wild and wonderful delights, District X promises to take Downloaders to another dimension once again. Taking place from 10-14 June 2026 at the legendary Donington Park, Download Festival continues to re-define the traditional festival experience. Weekend camping tickets have now sold out, but final remaining weekend arena and day tickets are available now at www.downloadfestival.co.uk.
 
This year, iconic 90s boyband Five will live up to their lyric “Five bad boys with the power to rock you” by playing Download Festival for the very first time and bringing their high-energy hits like ‘Slam Dunk (Da Funk)’ and ‘Everybody Get Up’ to Donington Park. Five won’t be the only act bringing a huge sense of fun to District X, as Electric Six will also be performing huge hits like ‘Gay Bar’ and ‘Danger! High Voltage’.
 
There truly won’t be a dull moment in District X, with acoustic performances from The All-American Rejects, secret sets (to be revealed on the weekend itself), DJ sets from Dick & Dom, Creeper, MODESTEP, Cancer Bats’ Liam Cormier (who will also be performing with Black Sabbath x Cancer Bats act Bat Sabbath) and Holding Absence’s Lucas Woodland, live comedy, live sets from Australian rock band DUNE RATS, London rap trio Frozemode and much more.
 
Further District X highlights include TokenGrass (a bluegrass tribute to Sleep Token), Nic Cage Against The Machine (a Rage Against The Machine tribute band fronted by a Nic Cage impersonator), comedy music trio OCT, viral sensation James B. Partridge’s Primary School Bangers, Scottish accordion player RuMac, and a plethora of other joyful experiences. There will also be a full programme of live comedy presented by the world famous The Comedy Store, with stand-up from over 25 acts including Thomas Green, Matt Bragg, Felicity Ward, Dinesh Nathan, Sikisa and many more.
 
District X will see a host of live podcasts taking to the stage, including RØRY’s ADHD Love, Sappenin Podcast and The Metal Roundup Podcast. Other highlights will include Heavy Metal Sports, Bongo’s Bingo, Panic! At The Bingo, Chris Fleming Millennial Magician, Live Band Karaoke with Ten Years Too Late, Never Mind The Download pub quizzes, as well as endless DJ sets and fun surprises from the likes of K-Pop Emo Hunters, Nickelbrat, Master Of Pop Hits, Alex Baker, Sophie K and dozens more.
 
This packed line-up confirms that District X remains the ultimate entertainment hub, offering Downloaders an unforgettable festival experience from dusk until dawn. And over in the main arena, DLXXIII will be headlined by Limp Bizkit, Guns N’ Roses and Linkin Park, with the likes of A Day To Remember, Scooter, Electric Callboy, Cypress Hill, Pendulum, Bad Omens, The Pretty Reckless, Trivium, Halestorm, BABYMETAL, Tom Morello, Dogstar and many more joining them on the bill. Weekend camping tickets are now sold out, but final remaining weekend arena and day tickets are available from www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Forbidden from the Forest – Manosphere Influencer denied entry to music festival

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Following Louis Theroux’s latest documentary ‘Inside The Manosphere’, social media commentary about the featured influencers has blown up – and not in ways they’ve enjoyed.

Between being summarily roasted across all platforms, deleting back-catalogue, and losing relationships over it all, there has been one pervasive opinion from the social landscape – FAFO.

Today Forbidden Forest festival took to Instagram to lambast one of the Influencers featured on the documentary, for demanding press access to their event. Though the name is redacted, the message is clear – Forbidden Forest doesn’t want them there, and is letting everyone know where they stand. The caption reads “We LOVE working with creators… Not this one though. Better luck next time x”.

Some other well known Influencers took to the comments, with DJ Zoe London saying “incredible, thank you for standing up for what’s right”, but with festival reviewer Rob Kellas of TPDTV simply writing “Noted”.

At the time of writing over 20k likes on Instagram, give a good picture of the public sentiment behind this move.

ELECTRIC CASTLE reveals 2026 lineup // Award-winning 24hr Transylvanian festival phenomenon announces headliners + 200 more names!

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Fresh from being crowned International Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards 2025, the legendary Electric Castle returns in 2026 with its most ambitious lineup yet, revealed today.

The 24hr Transylvanian festival phenomenon is gearing up for a huge edition with a wide array of music across 10 stages. Beyond the unmissable headline performances by global superstars The Cure, Twenty One Pilots, Teddy Swims and Chase & Status, over 200 artists have been announced today, spanning the best in alternative, electronic, and household names from around the world. All roads lead to BĂĄnffy Castle in Transylvania, from 16-19th July.

A true bucket-list destination, Electric Castle offers far more than just music. Each summer, the grounds transform into a vibrant utopia where one of the world’s most welcoming festival communities gathers to celebrate day and night against a truly magical backdrop. As the festival continues to evolve around the historic 16th-century grounds, Electric Castle looks ahead to a new era of unforgettable shows, cementing its place as Europe’s most adventurous and immersive festival experience in the heart of Transylvania.

Leading the 2026 lineup are true icons of alternative music, The Cure, bringing their timeless catalogue and atmospheric live show to the castle grounds for the first time. Joining them are the Grammy-winning American duo Twenty One Pilots, whose explosive performances and genre-blurring sound have made them one of the defining acts of modern rock. Soul powerhouse Teddy Swims will deliver his deeply emotional vocals and chart-topping hits, while drum & bass pioneers Chase & Status return again for a high-octane DJ set at the Castle.

From legendary alternative icons and stadium-sized rock acts to underground rap, cutting-edge electronic producers and rising indie stars, Electric Castle’s lineup reflects the festival’s reputation for bringing together a unique collision of styles and sounds in one unforgettable setting.

British rock favourites Nothing But Thieves join the bill with their soaring anthems and electrifying stage presence. Now headlining festivals in the UK, indie sensations Wet Leg make their first live appearance in Romania, while cult icons Yung Lean and Bladee promise a highly anticipated set. 

A diverse mix of boundary-pushing artists continues to define Electric Castle’s forward-thinking spirit. Irish rap collective Kneecap bring their fearless political energy, while British punk-poets Sleaford Mods promise a raw and uncompromising performance. Fans can also look forward to powerful sets from Maverick Sabre and Eliza Rose, disco moments from SG Lewis, whilst diving into sets from rising rock voices like Kid Kapichi and Just Mustard.

The lineup also welcomes a unique appearance from Hollywood star Keanu Reeves on bass duties for alt rock band Dogstar, alongside reggae and dub icons Dub Pistols and Congo NattyfeaturingBlackout JA, leading amapiano DJs Skyla Tylaa and Rosey Gold, and TruThoughts producer Quantic.

Electronic fans can expect more euphoric moments from techno visionary ANNA, melodic house favourite KĂślsch, and legendary duo Deep Dish. Meanwhile, bass music will be represented in full force by dubstep titan Subtronics and drum & bass heavyweight Wilkinson. Brazilian house phenomenon Mochakk brings one of the most talked-about DJ performances in global dance music. Completing this lineup announcement are exciting rising acts including Balu Brigada, Kilimanjaro and House of Protection.

Tudor Costinaș, Head of Communications at Electric Castle said: â€œWe are so excited to finally share the full line-up for Electric Castle 2026. Every year we try to build a lineup that feels genuinely wide-ranging, bringing together huge global names alongside artists people might be discovering for the first time, and we feel this is a fantastic example of just that. Electric Castle is always filled with interesting twists and turns, fun surprises and good times together. We can’t wait to meet everyone back at the castle again for our 12th edition this summer.”

Beyond the music, Electric Castle remains one of Europe’s most immersive festival experiences. From hot air balloon rides to fashion markets and lakeside chill-out spots to sports arenas, alongside film screenings, fine dining and thought-provoking EC Talks, the castle grounds transform into a vibrant cultural playground. Fans can explore forest hideaways, relax at the eco-friendly EC Village, or keep dancing until sunrise – Electric Castle is one of the few places in Europe where the party truly never stops.

EC12 is shaping up to be another unforgettable chapter in the festival’s story, a global meeting point for music lovers, creatives and explorers alike.

Electric Castle takes place at BĂĄnffy Castle, Romania, between 16-19th July 2026. Tickets are available to buy here: www.electriccastle.ro

Big Feastival Unveils More Music, Chefs and Comedy for 2026 – Mimi Webb, Joel Dommett, Simon Rogan and many more

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Big Feastival, the ultimate celebration of music, food and family fun, today announces even more additions for this year’s summer festival, alongside presenting partner Monzo. Names announced today include main stage artists Mimi Webb and Meek, as well as Big Kitchen headliner Simon Rogan and comedians Joel Dommett, Suzi Ruffell and Ivo Graham. The festival is also thrilled to reveal this year’s late-night line-up for The Outpost, including Fabio & Grooverider, Revival House Project, The Allergies (DJ Set), along with comedian & host of TV’s Taskmaster Alex Horne who brings ‘Britains Funniest Band’ The Horne Section.
 
These acts join previously announced main stage headliners Basement Jaxx, The Streets and Bastille alongside other acts including Rudim3ntal, Perrie, Doves, White Lies, Freya Ridings, Ms. Dynamite and The Coral. Taking place on Blur bassist Alex James’ farm between 28 – 30 August, Camping, Weekend & Day Tickets are on sale now at bigfeastival.com.
 
Now in its 15th year, the bank holiday spectacle is renowned for delivering the perfect combination of incredible live music, acclaimed chefs, and award-winning food as well as an unparalleled programme of family entertainment – truly something for everyone.
 
Joining the main stage line-up is one of the UK’s most exciting rising stars Mimi Webb, known for her powerhouse vocals and emotionally charged pop anthems. Meek will also take to the stage with her infectious indie-pop sound, alongside Nubiyan Twist, Jerub and She’s In Parties.
 
Big names from the worlds of comedy and podcasting will also join the farm’s festivities, including hit comedian & host of ITV’s The Masked Singer Joel Dommett, stand up and author Suzi Ruffell, and the charmingly self-deprecating Ivo Graham. Meanwhile, Inbetweeners alums Joe Thomas and James Buckley will be staging a live rendition of their new podcast Fact Up, whilst quick-witted star of social media Daniel Foxx is also added to the bill. They join already announced Harriet Kemsley, Shappi Khorsandi, Scott Bennett and The Scummy Mummies for a standout laugh out loud programme sure to bring big smiles to Big Feastival 2026.
 
Chef Simon Rogan will headline the Big Kitchen stage with a special live cooking demonstration, bringing his celebrated farm-to-fork philosophy to the festival. The Michelin-starred chef behind acclaimed restaurants including L’Enclume is renowned for his ingredient-led approach and pioneering British cuisine. New Zealand-born chef, sommelier and restaurateur Melanie Brown also joins the bill, and the Big Kitchen host has been confirmed as food waste warrior and social media sensation Lagom Chef. The stellar line up of chefs join already announced line up, Anna Haugh, Emily English, Rachel Allen, Tom Barnes and many more
 
Superstar DJ’s will keep the party going after hours in The Outpost, which returns for its second year. This year will see an electrifying line-up of brilliant acts, with Drum & Bass pioneers Fabio & Grooverider set to perform alongside the infectious sounds of Revival House Project and party-starting sets from The Allergies, as well as comedy and improv band The Horne Section, all promising a packed dancefloor from dusk till’ late.
 
Festival favourites will also take over the tent across the weekend, including performances from Sweet Female Attitude, Duke, and the brass-fuelled party starters Das Brass, alongside high energy & fun packed sets from Barrioke, Gospeloke, Disco Celidh, Hip Hop House Band, Grohlercoaster, In-here Brothers and Pacho Nacho.
 
Presenting partner Monzo will be bringing a whole host of activities to the farm, with lots to be announced soon, including the Monzo VIP Lounge, adding a splash of hot coral to brighten up everyone’s festival experience.
 
With plenty more announcements still to come, Big Feastival 2026 is gearing up to be the ultimate bank holiday weekend. For the full programme so far and to secure your tickets, visit: www.bigfeastival.com

Yardworks Festival announces landmark 10th anniversary edition

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Yardworks Festival will return to SWG3 on Saturday 2 May and Sunday 3 May 2026, marking its 10th anniversary with its most ambitious edition to date. Across two full days, live painting, large-scale murals, workshops, music and street culture will once again transform Glasgow’s riverside venue into a working canvas.

Now firmly established as Scotland’s leading festival of graffiti and urban art, Yardworks continues to spotlight internationally respected muralists alongside emerging talent and local pioneers. For its anniversary year, the festival expands its programme of participatory activity, industry conversations and city-wide engagement, reflecting its growth from grassroots gathering to a key date in the European street art calendar.

Among the first artists confirmed for 2026 is UK-based street artist .EPOD, whose work fuses graffiti, futurism and fine art, drawing on influences from hip-hop culture and classical painters to create cinematic, ethereal murals. Brighton veteran AROE, co-founder of the Heavy Artillery collective, brings decades of experience at the forefront of UK graffiti, known for translating the layered energy of city walls onto canvas through spray paint, hand-finishing and textural experimentation.

Also joining the anniversary line-up is French muralist Williann, whose bold female characters and intricate compositions draw on influences from 1950s pin-ups, early cartoons and decorative traditions, often carrying subtle messages around resilience and feminism. Glasgow-based painter David ‘PizzaBoy’ Breen presents atmospheric works shaped by his roots in street art, evoking late-night landscapes and in-between moments. Completing the first announcement is Scottish artist KMG, whose public artworks are grounded in Celtic folklore and oral storytelling traditions, using muralism and community engagement to explore cultural identity and marginalised histories.

This anniversary edition also significantly expands Yardworks’ educational offer. The Family Zone will be fully programmed in-house from the SWG3 Warehouse and included within the ticket price, providing accessible creative activity for children and families. A new paid workshop strand for adults will run across both days, covering specialist techniques including signwriting, Japanese calligraphy and paste-ups, alongside a dedicated screen-printing station where visitors can produce a limited-edition Yardworks tote bag.

An enhanced talks and industry programme will explore the role of graffiti and street art in culture, identity and regeneration. A book launch, film screening and roundtable discussions will bring together artists and sector voices to examine how urban art continues to shape cities and communities.

New for 2026, Street Art Cycling Tours will depart directly from SWG3, guiding audiences through the Yardworks-led Street Art District within the Glasgow Riverside Innovation District. The tours offer insight into the wider public artworks developed through the organisation’s year-round activity.

Gary Mackay (Gaz Mac), Yardworks Creative Director, said: “Yardworks has always been about more than just watching artists paint walls. It’s about creating space for exchange between artists, audiences and the city itself.

In 2026 we’re expanding that even further, with new workshops, industry conversations and the chance to explore the wider Street Art District that’s grown around us. Every year the ambition gets bigger, and we can’t wait to see what this edition becomes.”


Tickets for Yardworks Festival 2026 are on sale now here.

Shambala Announces Fresh Wave of 70+ Artists for its 2026 Line-up

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Shambala Festival has today announced a huge new batch of over 70 artists for its 2026 edition, adding even more colour, creativity and left-field brilliance to what is already shaping up to be the festival’s most ambitious line-up to date.

Newly confirmed names include Reggie Watts, the whirlwind of surreal beatboxing, improvised comedy and musical mischief, plus Senegal’s iconic masters of hypnotic Afro-Latin groove, Orchestra Baobab, as well as a brass-fuelled explosion of jazz, funk and afrobeat from Nubiyan Twist.

Also joining the party are sun-drenched psychedelia queens Los Bitchos, bass-heavy Bristol firestarter Grove, and jazz drummer Sarathy Korwar alongside Jamz Supernova, Prima Queen, Avalanche Kaito, Sababa 5, Joshua Burnside, Lisa Knapp & Gerry Diver, Malin Lewis, Waldo’s Gift and many more – spanning global grooves, boundary-pushing electronics, folk, funk, soul and joyful voyages of musical discovery. These additions bolster the festival’s already stellar musical line-up, which includes the likes of Bob Vylan, Hollie Cook, Goat (UK festival exclusive), and Emma-Jean Thackray.

True to Shambala’s fiercely independent spirit, the festival continues to put its community at the heart of decision-making. This year, after a decade of being meat- and fish-free, the question of reintroducing meat – solely in the form of sustainable, locally sourced wild venison – has been put to an audience vote, inviting Shambalans to decide whether it should feature on the menu in 2026. 

Shambala removed meat and fish from its menus back in 2016 to spark conversation about the wider impacts of what we eat on climate, ecosystems and communities – a move that helped shift habits and cut food-related emissions to just 6% of the festival’s total, compared with an average of 21% at UK music festivals. Now, this radical rethink comes in response to record-high deer populations across the UK. With overgrazing known to be damaging woodlands, wetlands and biodiversity in the absence of natural predators, Shambala is once again reopening the debate – and asking what truly sustainable eating looks like in 2026.

Shambala MD and Co-Founder Chris Johnson explains: 
“In 2016 we shocked the festival world, and some of our audience, by taking meat and fish off the menu. We did this to reduce environmental impacts, and also to spark debate. It feels time to reinvigorate these important conversations, and also to highlight that we urgently need to eat wild deer to rescue and protect what little is left of our natural habitats.”

The debate is now open to the audience and the results will be shared in early March.  

As ever, Shambala’s stages will be bursting with far more than just music. For 2026, the festival is unveiling a brand new Spiegeltent, set to become a dazzling new home for live circus, cabaret and theatrical spectacles. Festival goers can expect kids’ cabaret and family rave-ups, aerial circus swooping overhead, and genre-smashing bands & DJs – curated by Bristol-based interactive theatre legends Compass Presents, and delivered with a distinctly Shambalan twist.

Other much-loved participatory moments are already locked in for 2026, including the Saturday carnival, which sees the whole festival transformed with creative costumes based around a different theme each year. In 2026 festival goers will put their own novel interpretations on the theme ‘Lyrical Genius’. In a similar vein, Flamboyant Friday has Shambalans all commit to dressing in one colour for the day. This year the Shambalans voted to transform the festival crowd into a vibrant sea of purple.

Following last year’s sell-out, Shambala 2026 is filling up fast. Tier 1 Adult, Tier 2 Adult and Tier 1 Young Adult tickets are sold out, with Tier 3 Adult Weekend and Green Traveller tickets now selling fast. To meet significant demand for young persons’ tickets, a very limited new Tier 2 Young Adult ticket has also been just released at ÂŁ255, with flexible three and five month payment plans available for all ticket types. 

With its genre-defying line-up, commitment to off-the-wall silliness  and deep-rooted community, 2026 is shaping up to be another unforgettable chapter in Shambala’s story.

For tickets and more information, visit shambalafestival.org/buy-tickets/

The Long Road Festival adds 25+ artists including Emmylou Harris and Josh Ross

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LONDON, U.K. â€“ (Feb. 26, 2026) – The UK’s largest and most immersive outdoor Country, Americana and Roots festival, The Long Road, returns for a seventh year on the August 2026 Bank Holiday weekend (Aug. 27 – 30). Today’s announcement guarantees a weekend of music that spans multiple generations of artists, from legendary performers to the emerging artists and innovative new voices shaping country, Americana and roots.

The iconic, 14-time GRAMMY winner Emmylou Harris will bring timeless Americana as she wraps her lauded ‘European Farewell Tour’ at the festival, while breakout Canadian country sensation Josh Ross is set to keep the energy high, known for his chart-topping, radio-ready hits such as the genre-bending collaboration with Akon on their countrified version of ‘Na Na Na’.

They join the previously announced, multi-platinum, record-breaking Saturday night headliner Bailey Zimmerman, marking his first UK performance in more than two years, following his sold-out UK and European headline run in 2024.

Taking place on the scenic grounds of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire, The Long Road’s lineup continues with fan favourites and touring icons ready to deliver unforgettable performances. Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member and multiple GRAMMY winning legend Jim Lauderdale is set to perform highlights from a decades-spanning career to the festival stage for the first time. Adding a touch of indie grit, Shakey Graves is sure to light up the crowd with his signature sound, while heartfelt storytellers The Felice Brothers bring a mix of emotion and edge. Expect Southern soul meets roots rock with Uncle Lucius, tight harmonies from acclaimed acoustic-led songwriter duo Striking Matches, cinematic folk-pop flows from Oliver Hazard, and sing-along energy from the “happiest band on Earth,” beach folk band The 502s.

Celebrated as a true tastemaker event, The Long Road has built a reputation for spotlighting artists at every stage in their career, from powerhouse veterans to rising stars. With each of its six stages inspired by the places that shape country music throughout an artist’s journey – from front porches and dive bars, to miles across the Interstate, to the big-break Rhinestone stage – festival-goers can uncover talent across multiple stages.

Experience storytelling from Zandi Holup and Sarah Jane Scouten, the high-energy country of Jason Scott & The High Heat and Horsebath, and UK roots revival with The Hanging Stars and the gentle harmonies of Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou. Keep an ear out for rising stars Mia Kelly, Lily Fitts, Noah James, and Slow Motion Cowboys, all set to bring fresh energy and unforgettable performances to the festival, across a number of stages including takeovers hosted by partners Loose Music and Country & Americana powerhouse label Snakefarm Records.

A dedication to championing British artists continues this year, with Kezia Gill, Rose Betts, Trevor Moss & Hannah-Lou and Liam Price set to take the stage; Price was the winner of the festival’s inaugural Homegrown Talent Contest in 2025, which will take place again at this year’s festival to showcase the current crop of new artists. Applications for the 2026 contest will launch in the spring, with further information to follow. 

Beyond the music, and an environment designed to allow the audience to immerse themselves in the country lifestyle for a few days, The Long Road is levelling up its culinary offering even further this year with the debut of a full-scale, on-site restaurant – the Red Dog Saloon Texas-style BBQ restaurant, known for its highly popular locations across London, Nottingham, Liverpool, and Southampton. For the first time, attendees will have the opportunity to secure a booking for a shared dining experience, where they can indulge in the iconic USS Oklahoma sharing platter – the legendary feast featuring a 16-hour smoked USDA brisket, St. Louis pork ribs, and smoked wings, making it an ultimate communal pit-stop for hungry festival-goers, with Gluten-free and Vegan dietary options available.

The restaurant will seamlessly integrate into the festival site, ensuring every meal is paired with the surrounding sounds and atmosphere of the event, making the food as much a part of the story as the music. By bringing quality dining experiences, curated live music, and the much-loved sense of community into one dedicated space, the festival continues to push boundaries to offer a truly multi-sensory weekend.

Festival-goers return to The Long Road year after year to soak up the Country lifestyle – U.S. inspired street food and American BBQ, craft beers, the Lucky Dice Classic Car & Bike show, line dancing, campfires, vintage funfair rides, the dog show and pooch parade, activities and games for families & kids, Country-oke, and more. 

Friday & Sunday headliners and much more across four days and over six stages to be announced.

The Long Road has solidified its reputation as one of England’s “premiere country music festivals” (Holler) by offering an “authentic, immersive and welcoming” (Grazia) experience that feels less like a typical event and more like “being ‘welcomed home’” (Summer Festival Guide). Critics praise the festival for demonstrating “country music’s greatest strength: its variety” (DIY), transporting attendees to the States with BBQ, bourbon, and a “Honky-tonk bar” (The Standard). Known for its “soulful wholesome vibes” (Summer Festival Guide) and a “relaxed, fun, and safe” atmosphere that “sets The Long Road apart” (Rock At Night), the weekend promises that if you are “even half-curious about country,” you will “fall in love with it” (Music News).

RELIVE THE SENSATIONAL 2025 FESTIVAL HERE

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Day tickets, Weekend General and High Falootin’ VIP tickets, Family & Group tickets, General and Premium camping, Live-in Vehicle, Pitch & Park, and Glamping packages are on sale now here.

Official Site | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok

Who is performing at The Long Road Festival 2026?

Anne Wilson ★ Bailey Zimmerman ★ Dylan Earl ★ Emmylou Harris ★ The Felice Brothers ★ Horsebath ★ Jason Scott & The High Heat ★ Jim Lauderdale ★ Josh Ross ★ Ken Pomeroy ★ Kezia Gill ★ Liam Price ★ Lily Fitts ★ Mia Kelly ★ Noah James ★ Oliver Hazard ★ Rose Betts ★ Sarah Jane Scouten ★ Shakey Graves ★ Slow Motion Cowboys ★ Striking Matches ★ The 502s ★ The Hanging Stars ★ Trevor Moss & Hanna-Lou ★ Uncle Lucius ★ Zandi Holup

How do I get tickets for The Long Road Festival 2026?

Visit thelongroad.com/tickets for day and weekend General and High Falootin’ VIP tickets, Group tickets, Family tickets – launched this year for two adults and up to three children, saving over ÂŁ80 – General and Premium camping, Live-in Vehicle, Pitch & Park, and Glamping packages.

THE MAVERICK FESTIVAL – 2026 Line Up Announcement!

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‘A perfectly concentrated blast of Americana in a location beyond ideal’ – Spiral Earth

The UK’s first and finest Americana festival is pleased to announce its lineup for 2026. The festival will take place from Friday 3rd July to Sunday 5th, showcasing international artists from both sides of the Atlantic and beyond. The barns and fields of Easton Farm Park in rural Suffolk will once more be transformed into a festival site offering five stages indoors and out, presenting an array of music, dance and masterclasses that have been attracting festival-goers since 2008.

For the “nineteenth nervous breakdown” Maverick are pleased to announce a spectacular international lineup featuring the cream of American roots music, with Californian road dogs ROSE’S PAWN SHOP, Southern Gothic storyteller BEN DE LA COUR, everyone’s favourite fiddler CHRIS MURPHY, Canadian award-winning folk/roots master LEEROY STAGGER, Alt-Country originators WACO BROTHERS

(Jon Langford), Oregon’s cowpunk jug band SASSPARILLA, stateside space folk rockers ELECTRIC BLUE YONDER, Texan barnstormers VANDOLIERS, the queen of Oklahoma CARTER SAMPSON, Australia’s sun-soaked rock and rollers BIG WHEELS and in their only UK festival appearance, cult favourites THE JACKMORMONS (Jerry Joseph), with more names to follow.

Once again, our friends in Lafayette, Louisiana have partnered with us to bring the spicy flavours, fancy footwork and fabulous sounds of the Bayou to the farm, with music from Paul McCartney favourites THE CAJUN ROOSTERS, and accordion maestro LIL JIM with his new band CAJUN ROYALE. This year Maverick will also be partnering with Music For All, a charity dedicated to changing lives across the UK by improving access to music making.

Maverick has been at the forefront of establishing the Americana scene in the UK since before the genre was christened, co-founding the Americana Music Association UK and hosting established artists like Mary Gauthier, Justin Townes Earle, Sierra Hull and Billy Bragg whilst championing many like Yola, Larkin Poe, Brown Horse and Gwenifer Raymond early in their careers.

Grab your tickets now, come to the farm and see tomorrow’s stars of Americana today!

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BST HYDE PARK TO HOST OFFICIAL GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ TITLE ATTEMPT FOR LARGEST GATHERING OF PEOPLE WEARING BALD CAPS AT PITBULL’S HEADLINE SHOW

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American Express presents BST Hyde Park today announces that it will host an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt for the Largest gathering of people wearing bald caps during Pitbull’s headlining show on Friday 10 July. 

The idea of a world record was championed by Radio 1 Breakfast host Greg James on air. A long-time fan of Pitbull, Greg James excitedly called for the record attempt as soon as the Hyde Park show was announced. After hearing about Greg’s world record quest, Pitbull texted him to say he was keen to be involved.  

“Guinness Book of World Records, get ready for all the Bald-E’s that’ll be putting it down on July 10th at Hyde Park,” says Pitbull â€œEvery time you put on that bald cap, you know you’re about to have the time of your lives. We appreciate the love, the commitment, and the support. More than anything, we just want to say thank you. Dale!”

The attempt builds on a phenomenon sparked by Pitbull’s devoted international fanbase, including  his recent sold-out O2 Arena shows in London where thousands of fans arrived wearing bald caps. The fan fashion tribute to the artist’s iconic look quickly went viral last year, with audiences affectionately dubbing themselves “The Bald E’s”. The movement continues across his live shows globally this year, including his upcoming European and North American I’M BACK tour dates, celebrating the larger-than-life spirit of Mr. Worldwide.

BST Hyde Park now brings this fan-led moment to its biggest stage yet, inviting audiences to take part in an official, adjudicated GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title attempt and be part of music history. Final tickets are on sale now, visit www.bst-hydepark.com

The official record comes with all-important rules, being that “all participants must wear bald caps secured firmly on the head, with hair tucked under at the front and top (hair may hang from the back),” and everyone must be together at the same time, as “all participants must be gathered together and in position simultaneously and remain so for a minimum of one minute.”

Darcey Jackson, Director of Talent at AEG Presents European Festivals says, “We’re so excited to host a [Mr] world [wide] record attempt at Pitbull’s show in BST Hyde Park – The highest number of people wearing baldcaps! We’ve broken a few world records in the past but this will really truly be the time of our lives . We cannot wait to welcome you all to Hyde Park for what will inevitably be an incredible show. Come one, come all, come bald” 

Will Munford, Adjudicator at Guinness World Records says, “We look forward to Adjudicating this record at BST Hyde Park with Pitbull. What better way to be part of something amazing than coming together with other fans to celebrate your favourite artist. Best of luck to all of those taking part on the day!”

 

For this special show on 10 July, Pitbull will be joined by special guest Kesha, with many more acts to be announced for the billing. Headliners for 2026 also include: Garth Brooks (Saturday 27 June) and Lewis Capaldi (Saturday 11 July and Sunday 12 July), Maroon 5 (Friday 3 July), Mumford & Sons (Saturday 4 July), with more to be announced.

 

Pitbull also headlines the inaugural American Express presents Roundhay Festival in Leeds on Friday 3 July, joined by Kesha and more acts to be added. Visit roundhayfestival.com.

Tickets are on sale now

www.bst-hydepark.com | @bsthydepark

WYCHWOOD REVEALS FINAL LINEUP & MORE BIG NAMES FOR 20TH EDITION

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Wychwood Festival has added even more big names to its bumper 20th anniversary line-up today, as the much-loved family-friendly festival returns to Cheltenham Racecourse from 29th to 31st May 2026.

Craig David presents TS5 completes the line-up, joining a blockbuster headline bill where chart-topping indie icons Kaiser Chiefs will fill the racecourse with anthems on Saturday night, before Levellers bring the weekend to a legendary close on Sunday evening. Craig David’s TS5 project is the perfect high-energy addition, a dynamic and nostalgic show that seamlessly blends live vocals, MCing, and DJing. Fans can expect all his adored garage classics with old-school anthems and current hits aplenty.

Alongside the anticipated Friday headliner announcement, even more heavyweight names find their way onto Wychwood Festival’s poster today. Manchester’s Everything Everything’s live reputation precedes them, packing in everything needed for a vibrant, high-energy indie rock show, whilst Newcastle’s MaxĂŻmo Park will be returning to Wychwood as Special Guests this year, having last played at the racecourse in 2015. Expect a run of indie hits with choruses built for singing back at full volume. These two indie legends make Sunday simply unmissable.

These exciting new additions will join an incredible array of recently announced names, including Feeder, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Boney M, The Pigeon Detectives, The Twang, Newton Faulkner, Elles Bailey, The Wedding Present, The Subways, and Chesney Hawkes, alongside an expertly curated mix of festival favourites, rising talent and joyful curveballs that have become synonymous with the Wychwood experience. 

For the first time in the festival’s history, Wychwood will open its gates on Thursday, for an additional night of music headlined by Dutty Moonshine Big Band. Speaking about this special moment, the band said: “Wychwood is up there as one of the amazing festivals on the circuit and it’s an absolute belter of an honour to headline and bring our madness to the first ever Thursday in Wychwood history.”

Fresh from being crowned Family Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards 2025, Wychwood continues to set the standard for inclusive festival experiences. Thousands flock from around the UK in growing numbers each year, and it’s no wonder with the hundreds of family-friendly activities, arts, comedy, children’s literature and workshops laid out across the weekend at The Village Green and beyond – plus it’s free for under 10s! 

With day splits now confirmed, ticket holders can begin to plan their movements for the weekend, ensuring they are booked and busy with all of their favourites. 

Taking place beneath the beautiful Prestbury Hills at Cheltenham Racecourse, Wychwood marks the very first weekend of the summer festival season and has become a treasured tradition for families and music lovers alike.

Festival Director Graeme Merifield said â€œFor our 20th anniversary, we really had to go all out for our headliners. Craig David brings a whole new dimension to the festival for 2026 with garage and R&B hits. When followed by Kaiser Chiefs and Levellers there really is something for everyone! Adding Everything Everything and MaxĂŻmo Park guarantees even more indie anthems over the weekend, and completes our strongest music line-up yet. Tickets are going fast and we’ve been delighted with the response to our new Thursday add-on, so with this news we are on the road to another celebratory, record-setting year at the racecourse.”

The 20th edition of Wychwood Festival takes place from 29th to 31st May 2026 at Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire. With Weekend Camping Tickets 90% Sold Out, remaining tickets are available from ÂŁ144.50 via www.wychwoodfestival.com