First wave of artists announced for Bristol Harbour Festival 2026

Bristol Harbour Festival has announced the first artists confirmed for its 2026 Harbour View stage, marking the start of a programme shaped by local partnerships and a strong focus on Bristol talent.

Image: Bristol Harbour Festival

Friday night opens with big party energy, featuring Fedzilla’s explosive fusion of hip hop and funk to set the pace, followed by the brass-driven sounds of chart favourites Sam and The Womp, renowned for their high-impact live shows. Bristol’s own Dr Meaker completes the evening with his full band, delivering a powerful mix of drum & bass, soul and live instrumentation against the backdrop of the Harbour.

Saturday sees the Festival partner with This Is Now Agency to present a Main Stage line-up in celebration of their 13th Anniversary. This collaboration will reflect the diversity of the city’s music scene, with 50% of the day’s entertainment being people of colour. Highlights include RED, whose contemporary sound and confident stage presence continue to build momentum; Ngaio, bringing rich vocals and sharp lyricism; and K.O.G, performing with his band and bringing his signature mix of Afrobeat, funk and Hi-Life to the Harbour View stage. Other standout performances will come from Bristol’s adopted energetic Hip-Hop duo, Too Many T’s, and the celebrated one-man dance music machine that is Funke and the Two Tone Baby.

Sunday welcomes back the Made in Bristol showcase, dedicated to emerging and established artists from the South West. With more than 300 new expressions of interest submitted for 2026, this year’s showcase underlines the depth of talent across the region and the Festival’s ongoing role in providing a platform for local artists.

Noemi Antonelli, Director at Swans Events and music programming lead for the festival, said: “We want the programme to properly reflect what’s happening in Bristol right now. Working with venues, partners and This Is Now Agency means we’re collaborating with people who are deeply connected to the scene. The response to Made in Bristol - more than 300 artists getting in touch - says everything about how much talent there is here. Our job is to give that talent a serious stage.”

Beyond the Main Stage, 2026 introduces a brand new pop-up stage at Cascade Steps, creating space for intimate performances throughout the weekend and adding a more intimate live music experience to the Festival footprint. Millennium Square will host folk and Americana on Saturday, followed by soul and funk on Sunday, adding further depth to the weekend’s musical programme. The iconic silent disco at Thekla will also be returning for 2026, taking over the entire venue. Tickets will be available closer to the event and can be purchased via Thekla’s website.

Cllr Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “Bristol Harbour Festival is a highlight of our cultural calendar, bringing communities together and showcasing the creativity that makes our city distinctive. This first wave of artists announced for the festival reflects the strength and diversity of Bristol’s music scene, from established names to emerging local talent. We’re proud to support a festival that provides a vital platform for artists and attracts visitors to the city.”

The Bristol Harbour Festival is one of the UK’s largest free cultural events, celebrating the city’s maritime heritage, diverse communities and creative talent. Organised by Proud Events and Swans Events in partnership with Bristol City Council, Bristol City Centre BID, the festival is dedicated to sustainability, inclusivity and community engagement.

For more information, visit bristolharbourfestival.co.uk and follow Bristol Harbour Festival on Facebook and Instagram.