Get ready for an exciting lineup of festivals across the south of England in 2026! From literary extravaganzas to music-filled weekends, there's something for every taste. But here's where it gets controversial... Some festivals have already announced their headliners, while others are keeping their lineups under wraps. So, if you're a festival enthusiast, you might want to start planning your itinerary now! Let's dive into the details and explore the upcoming events.
Oxfordshire
Oxford Literary Festival (March 21-29): Prepare for an intellectual escapade as one of the UK's premier literary events returns to the heart of Oxford. Expect thought-provoking talks, debates, and readings from renowned authors and public figures, including historian Sir Simon Schama and Gruffalo author Julia Donaldson.
Henley Festival (July 8-10): Imagine a riverside celebration of music, performance, food, and art on the banks of the Thames in Henley. Last year's headliners included Diana Ross, McFly, and Rick Astley. Stay tuned for the 2026 lineup!
Truck Festival (July 23-26): Dubbed 'the UK's most warped village fete,' this festival at Hill Farm in Steventon promises a unique blend of music and mayhem. The Maccabees, Two Door Cinema Club, The Wombats, CMAT, and The Libertines will headline, with Kaiser Chiefs, Primal Scream, and Rizzle Kicks also on the bill.
Wilderness Festival (July 30 - August 2): After a successful run in 2025, this festival returns to Cornbury Park, near Charlbury, with Supergrass and Wet Leg as headliners. Stay tuned for the 2026 lineup, which promises to be just as exciting!
Fairport's Cropredy Convention (August 13-15): Towards the end of the festival season, folk legends Fairport Convention host this event. As tradition dictates, the band will headline the final night, joined by Soft Machine and Turin Brakes.
Big Feastival (August 27-30): Blur bassist Alex James will once again host this annual celebration of music, food, and drink in Kingham, West Oxfordshire. Last year's headliners included Basement Jaxx, The Streets, and Bastille. Stay tuned for the 2026 lineup!
Berkshire
Long Walk Live (June 26-27): A brand-new two-day music festival will debut in Windsor this year, featuring a backdrop of Windsor Castle. The inaugural event will be headlined by Chesney Hawkes and Boyzlife, a duo formed by Keith Duffy from Boyzone and Brian McFadden from Westlife.
Reading Festival (August 27-30): One of the UK's biggest festivals, Reading Festival, will return in 2026 with an impressive lineup. Headliners include Charli XCX, Dave, Raye, and Florence and the Machine, among countless other big names.
Wokingham Festival (August 29-31): Founded as a family-friendly alternative to larger festivals, Wokingham has become a popular fixture at Cantley Park over the past 15 years. This year's acts are yet to be announced, but 2025 included Selena and the Howlin Dogs, Third Lung, and Bottle Kids.
Hampshire
The Big Eat Festival (May 23-25): A free-spirited celebration of street food, family fun, and outdoor dining at Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley. Mark your calendars for this delicious adventure!
Southampton Summer Sessions (June 12-27): A sprawling open-air event held each year in Guildhall Square, featuring music icons like The Beach Boys, Paul Weller, Billy Ocean, and Deacon Blue. Get ready to groove!
Wickham Festival (July 30 - August 2): A beloved boutique festival that blends folk, rock, and world music with comedy, food stalls, real ales, and family entertainment across several stages. The first night's headliner is yet to be announced, but The Saw Doctors, The Proclaimers, and Curtis Stigers are confirmed.
Boomtown (August 12-16): An immersive, theatrical music festival at Matterley Estate, near Winchester, describing itself as a 'holiday to a parallel world.' The event blends live music, performance art, and storytelling across themed districts for a unique festival experience. This year's acts include Madness, Kneecap, and Shaggy.
Victorious Festival (August 28-30): Held on the Southsea seafront in Portsmouth, this popular annual event offers a diverse array of music, comedy, markets, and other activities. Headliners include Richard Ashcroft, The Black Keys, and Kasabian. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend!
Mucky Weekender (September 10-12): The event returns for its sixth year at Vicarage Farm, between Basingstoke and Winchester. With a capacity of 5,000 across four stages, set within 28 acres of private parkland, this festival promises an unforgettable experience. Goldie will top the bill this year.
Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight Festival (June 18-21): One of the UK's longest-running open-air music festivals returns to Seaclose Park with a star-studded 2026 lineup. The Cure, Calvin Harris, and Lewis Capaldi will headline across the weekend, joined by Wet Leg, The Kooks, and Teddy Swims.
The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival (August 15-16): If music isn't your thing but garlic is, this is the festival for you! A flavor-packed celebration of garlic and local produce featuring food stalls, artisan markets, live music, and family entertainment.
Dorset
Dorchester Beerex (February 6-7): An annual celebration of beer and brass bands in Dorchester, perfect for craft beer enthusiasts and live music fans. The 37th outing will take place at the Corn Exchange, with music to be confirmed.
Camp Bestival (July 30 - August 2): A colorful family-friendly festival with big acts, children's entertainment, comedy, and more. Just the one act has been confirmed for this year's event - Fat Boy Slim and Friends. But with last year headed by Sugababes, Basement Jaxx, and Sir Tom Jones, there's sure to be many big announcements to come.
End of the Road Festival (September 3-6): An indie and alternative festival set in Larmer Tree Gardens, with an eclectic lineup of artists, workshops, talks, and intimate performances. Pulp, CMAT, and Canadian singer-songwriter Mac DeMarco will lead this year's event.
