The first wave of artists for the 2026 Reading & Leeds Festival has officially arrived. Known as one of the UK’s most influential summer festivals, Reading & Leeds returns with a powerhouse roster led by Charli XCX, Chase & Status, Dave, Florence and the Machine, Fontaines D.C., and RAYE, all set to headline the three-day celebration.
This year marks several milestone debuts. Charli XCX and RAYE will headline the festivals for the first time, both stepping into the role after years of standout performances. Dave returns to headline for the first time since 2022. Fresh off the release of Everybody Scream, Florence and the Machine also return to the top slot—an appearance that marks their first Reading & Leeds headlining set in 13 years. First-time headliners Fontaines D.C. and Chase & Status round out the top line.
Beyond the headliners, the lineup highlights a broad mix of established and rising acts, reflecting the festival’s multi-genre identity. Confirmed performers include Skepta, Sombr, Role Model, Jade, Josh Baker, Kneecap, Kettama, Chris Stussy, Geese, Skye Newman, Adéla, and KEO, with many more to be announced. Notably, the official poster teases a hidden act, generating speculation about who might join the bill as the revealed surprise headliner or major addition.
Ticket access has already begun. A 48-hour PayPal presale is live now through UK PayPal accounts and will remain open until sold out or until December 3 at 9 a.m. A mailing list presale begins December 2 at 9 a.m., followed by the Pepsi MAX presale for Reading also on December 2. The general sale opens December 3 at 12 p.m. through the official festival websites.
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