Reading and Leeds Festival 2026 has had fans waiting in anticipation for their newly-released line-up of the festival. We take a look at some of the bands who will be performing this year.

READING & LEEDS FESTIVAL 2026

It’s that time of year again when some of the biggest acts in music head to Reading and Leeds for a weekend packed with talent. With iconic headliners from the likes of Fontaines DC, Raye, Florence and the Machine and Dave. More underrated talent from the lineup includes the likes of Jade, Ruby Roberts, Bleech 9:3, Florence Road and Overpass, it is going to be the festival you won’t want to miss out on.

HEADLINERS

You can expect an unforgettable set from Ireland’s edgiest indie band… if you don’t know already, then get to know. Fontaines D.C. are riding high since their latest album release of Romance. Their music creates the perfect blend of dark, atmospheric sounds, with guitar-heavy and mosh-pit anthems, making them the ideal headliner for Reading and Leeds. Their set is a must-see! 

Raye continues to shine with her sophomore album THIS ALBUM MAY CONTAIN HOPE., and is sure to bring her new music and hopeful spirits to the festival. With upbeat tunes and powerful vocals, Raye returns to Reading and Leeds for a memorable set.

UP AND COMERS…

Keo are set to make their debut appearance at Reading and Leeds this year. Known for their electric crowds and even more electric stage presence, for Keo, the only way is up. Since releasing their debut EP Siren in 2025, they’ve been riding high on the success, from their own headline tours, headlining festivals and even their own concert film from their London show of their tour.

Another must-watch of the weekend is indie-rock band Overpass. The Birmingham four-piece have quickly cemented their name as one of the UK’s best up-and-coming bands. Known for their energetic live shows and strong guitar hooks, their Reading and Leeds performances could mark a breakthrough moment for the band. 

Manchester’s The Guest List also make their debut at Leeds and Reading, after their successful festival run last year. After gaining traction from their debut EP, they’ve since sold-out dates on their headline tour and are becoming an essential name in the UK indie music scene.

RETURNEES

Declan McKenna is a returnee to the festival, following his appearance in 2023, and being a familiar face since 2017. McKenna makes his long-awaited return to the stage after touring in 2024 for his album ‘What Happened to the Beach?’ His performance is sure to be a must-watch, with their festival-favourite anthems like British Bombs, Beautiful Faces and Brazil. His latest releases will no doubt amplify his set even more than before. 

Holly Humberstone is also no stranger to the festival. Set to release her third album, Cruel World, in April, the East-Midlands musician is touring her album and performing at festivals such as Coachella and Mad Cool. 

GENRES

There are a range of different genres performing over the weekend from Ireland’s electronic music scene with Kettama performing on the Sunday, guaranteed to bring a euphoric set. His music is strongly influenced by the rave scene in the 90s with elements of nostalgia with a modern edge.  

Moving up to Northern Ireland, Kneecap’s high-energy performances always deliver. Their genre-blending style, combines rock, electronica, and indie, creating an immersive listening experience that promises to be even more captivating live. They’re favourites of ours and we can’t wait for their set on at the festival.

Skepta is also set to be a favourite of the weekend, taking to the stage not once but twice as he teams up with electronic duo Prospa for a B2B set. Skepta takes to the main stage 10 years after his first main stage performance at the festival with Boy Better Know. 

DISCOVER

While Reading and Leeds boasts its major artists performing, it’s also a great way to discover new artists across the weekend. It’s a key way for artists to get discovered before their breakthrough. The festival has helped artists kickstart their career, many going on to be headliners of the festival. With a lineup packed with emerging talent, this year’s festival could introduce many audiences to the new generation of talent. 

A standout act on the bill is Jade Thirlwall, hailing from South Shields and first rising to fame as a member of global pop group Little Mix after their win on The X Factor in 2011. Since launching her solo career in 2024, Jade has continued to go above and beyond to prove she is a true pop icon, even picking up the Brit Award for Best Pop Act in 2025. Her set is expected to deliver pure pop, packed with dance floor hits and feel-good energy.

Reading Festival has something for everyone to enjoy. From high-energy sets to chilled back acoustic sessions, you can find it all in the heart of Reading and Leeds.  

There are payment plans available and you can buy tickets here.

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