The excitement continues to build for Wickham Festival 2026 (30th July – 2nd August) as we reveal another wave of standout artists heading to Hampshire this summer. From world-famous headliners to cutting-edge folk innovators and high-energy festival favourites, this latest announcement highlights the incredible diversity of music on offer across the weekend.
Red Hot Chilli Pipers
Opening night at Wickham is set for a spectacular start as Thursday headliners the Red Hot Chilli Pipers return for their first appearance since 2018. Widely regarded as the most famous bagpipe band in the world, they have taken their unique “bagrock” sound to global audiences, blending traditional Scottish pipes with rock anthems and contemporary hits. Winners of When Will I Be Famous? on the BBC, they have gone on to tour internationally, earning a reputation for electrifying, feel-good performances. Expect a high-energy set packed with iconic tunes, driving rhythms and unforgettable stage presence.
Tim Edey & Michael McGoldrick
Two giants of the Celtic folk world come together as Tim Edey and Michael McGoldrick take to the Wickham stage on Thursday 30th July, with Tim also performing a solo set on Friday. A double BBC Musician of the Year, Tim Edey is widely regarded as one of the finest melodeon and guitar players of his generation, known for his virtuosity and infectious stage energy. Michael McGoldrick, famed for his work with bands like Capercaillie and Lúnasa, is a master of flute, whistle and uilleann pipes, bringing fluidity and innovation to traditional music. Together, they create a dynamic and exhilarating sound that blends technical brilliance with deep-rooted tradition.
Olivia Chaney
Renowned for her hauntingly beautiful voice and genre-defying style, Olivia Chaney brings a unique blend of folk, classical and contemporary influences to Wickham. Her latest single, “Dark Eyed Sailor,” features prominently in the new Wuthering Heights film adaptation, introducing her music to a wider audience. A former member of the acclaimed project The Rails and collaborator with artists such as Kronos Quartet, Chaney is celebrated for her adventurous musicality and emotional depth. Her performances are intimate, powerful and utterly captivating.
Roving Crows
If you’re looking for energy, look no further than Roving Crows. This Irish folk rock band have built a reputation for delivering riotous, high-octane performances filled with driving rhythms, soaring fiddle lines and plenty of humour. Their engaging stage presence and natural rapport with audiences make every show feel like a celebration. Blending traditional Irish influences with rock attitude, they are guaranteed to get the Wickham crowd on their feet.
The TR5’s
Bringing vintage sounds roaring back to life, The TR5’s channel the spirit of 1950s skiffle and early 1960s rock ’n’ roll with infectious enthusiasm. Their high-energy live shows are packed with rhythm, nostalgia and irresistible charm, capturing the raw excitement of the era that shaped modern popular music. With driving acoustic guitars, upright bass and classic rhythms, they deliver a feel-good set that appeals to all generations. Expect toe-tapping tunes and a lively atmosphere throughout.
Gilkicker Weevil
After impressing audiences with their debut as a duo at Wickham in 2025, Gilkicker Weevil return this year as a three-piece on Saturday 1st August. The expanded line-up brings new depth and energy to their performance, building on the promise they showed last year. They are definitely a band to watch as they continue to grow and evolve.
From the global spectacle of the Red Hot Chilli Pipers to the intricate artistry of Celtic folk masters, from contemporary singer-songwriters to high-energy folk rock and retro revival sounds, Wickham Festival 2026 is showcasing an extraordinary range of musical styles.
This ever-growing line-up underlines what makes Wickham so special — a festival where genres collide, traditions are celebrated, and audiences can discover something new at every turn. With headline acts, returning favourites and exciting emerging talent all sharing the stage, the diversity and quality of music across the weekend promises an unforgettable experience for festivalgoers of all tastes.
More exciting announcements are on the way…
