Wychwood Festival has revealed the first huge name for its 2026 edition, with chart-topping indie icons Kaiser Chiefs confirmed to headline the Saturday night on 30th May.
Having just celebrated its biggest ever year in 2025 at Cheltenham Racecourse, Wychwood continues to cement its place as the festival to usher in the summer season in spectacular style. Each year, thousands come together in Gloucestershire for three days of music, comedy, family fun and discovery, and 2026 promises to raise the bar once again as the festival celebrates its extra special 20th edition in style.
Headlining the main stage next summer under the scenic Prestbury Hills, Kaiser Chiefs will bring their celebrated catalogue of indie anthems – including ‘I Predict a Riot’, ‘Ruby’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less and Less’ and ‘Never Miss a Beat’ – to Cheltenham Racecourse. Known for frontman Ricky Wilson’s boundless charm and the band’s formidable live reputation, having toured with the likes of U2, Foo Fighters and Green Day, the Leeds band are the perfect choice to crown another unforgettable Wychwood Festival weekend.
Kaiser Chiefs’ Ricky Wilson said: “Really looking forward to playing Wychwood next summer. Any festival that puts us top of the bill must have excellent taste so it bodes well. The summer is when we thrive, we are good at festivals and if you haven’t seen us before it’s a strong recommend. If you have seen us before then we hope to see you”
Today’s announcement follows a landmark 2025 edition that drew record-breaking crowds and unforgettable performances from Doves, James, Shed Seven and many more. With its friendly atmosphere, breathtaking setting and a track record for perfectly pairing legendary acts with exciting emerging talent, Wychwood is a true gem in the UK’s festival calendar.
In a move that reinforces Wychwood’s commitment to accessibility and community spirit, 2026 will see unbeatable value in weekend ticket prices. The full weekend experience is already proving more popular than ever before, with a record-setting 50% of weekend camping tickets sold already. With so much on offer for all ages, under-10s continue to go free, ensuring the event remains an inclusive experience for all.
Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and expert curation across the weekend, Wychwood continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its roots as one of the UK’s most loved boutique festival weekends.
The 20th edition of Wychwood Festival takes place 29th–31st May 2026 at Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire. Sign up now for Priority Tickets, available 10am Thursday 16th October, before the General Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday 17th October: www.wychwoodfestival.com/buy-tickets
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