Events

Almost 200,000 Music Fans Per Day Attended Reading And Leeds

Published

7 years ago

August 31, 2019

admin

THE 1975, TWENTY ONE PILOTS, POST MALONE AND FOO FIGHTERS HEADLINE AN UNFORGETTABLE AUGUST BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND ACROSS RICHFIELD AVENUE AND BRAMHAM PARK

ICONIC DEBUT SHOW FROM BILLIE EILISH

TICKETS FOR READING AND LEEDS 2020 ON SALETUESDAY 27 AUGUST @ MIDDAY

Monday 26 August – Reading and Leeds 2019 saw 200,000 festival fans indulge in outstanding sets from The 1975, Post Malone, Twenty One Pilots and Foo Fighters and hundreds of the world’s best artists, bands, DJs and comedians. Reading and Leeds Festivals 2020 tickets will be on sale Tuesday 27 August at midday.

The 1975 made history with their spellbinding visuals as well as unreleased music from their highly anticipated next album ‘Notes On A Conditional Form’ and an incredible first live performance of their newly released single ‘People’. “There’s not enough time for the universe”, frontman Matty Healy declared, as he used his performance to shout about the shocking impact of climate devastation. Before the finale kicked off, their collaboration with environmental activist Greta Thunberg, ‘The 1975’ was played out, with the words of her very important essay highlighted across the Main Stage screens as a call to action, urging all in attendance to make a change.

Post Malone and Twenty One Pilots returned to Reading on Saturday and Leeds on Sunday. Post Malone returned to the festivals this year with headline status. Undeniably one of the hottest acts in the world right now, Posty topped off his performance with the rockstar ritual of smashing his guitar on stage. Twenty One Pilots played an epic set; after making their entrance by striding in front of a car completely engulfed in flames, duo Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun were also joined by fellow headliner Post Malone for an emotionally charged crowd singalong of ‘Don’t Look Back In Anger’ in Leeds.

Foo Fighters made their grand return to Richfield Avenue and Bramham Park pulling out all the stops and delving into an epic back catalogue spanning twenty five years of hits. The rock legends had crowds singing along from the first line of opener ‘Pretender’, and not stopping until the final bars of ‘Everlong’ which saw them close an unforgettable weekend of music in incredible style at Reading. In Leeds Dave Grohl’s daughter Violet joined the band on stage to duet with her Dad on an emotional version of ‘My Hero’.As is customary with any Foo Fighters gig, Taylor Hawkins swapped his drumsticks for microphone with Dave taking his vacant stool for a cover of Bowie/ Queen’s Under Pressure, during which a fan dressed as Freddie Mercury was plucked from the crowd to join the band on stage. Grohl recounted fond memories of playing the festival over the years, thanking the fans for their loyalty for over two decades. The band were also joined on stage by Rick Astley.

The world’s most exciting pop sensation Billie Eilish brought her number one award-winning album ‘When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?’ to the stage with a huge hits-filled performance. Fans went wild as she opened her set with ‘Bad Guy’, a thumping pop belter which instantly had the crowd bouncing. Making what’s undoubtedly a historic Reading and Leeds Festival debut, her powerful, energetic performance kept fans utterly mesmerised throughout.

Brody Dalle and her American punk rock band The Distillers played their first UK show in 15 years on the main stage, and were reunited with drummer Andy Granelli. Grammy award winning Anderson Paak and The Free Nationals wowed the crowd with a stunning, energetic performance showcasing his genre-defying versatility.

The BBC Radio 1 Stage once again proved one of the festival’s most thrilling destinations with performances from 2019 Brit Award nominee Mabel, chart-topping four piece Bastille and 21 year-old rapper Dave. Those looking to dance spent their weekend at the BBC Radio 1 Dance Stage where electronic duo Camelphat, Andy C, Denis Sulta and Becky Hill took to the stage with sets that kept the crowd moving from beginning to end. The BBC 1Xtra Stage was jam-packed with headline sets from BBC Sound of 2019 winner Octavian who was joined by special guest Skepta as his set drew to a close, Hackney-born rapper and singer Not3s brought his signature Afrobeat sound and the one and only Dappy drew fans in with no less than a high octane set bursting with energy.

The Pit and The Lock Up was a one stop shop for all things rock, metal and punk, with Bowling For Soup, Ghostemane, Enter Shikari (who also played the Main Stage earlier in the day), The Maine, Pup and Of Mice and Menplaying alongside upcoming talent like Press Club, Plague Vendor and Queen Zee.

Forever championing new talent, the BBC Introducing Stage remains the best place to catch the most exciting emerging artists, this year saw the indie-pop masters Marsicans, raspy-voiced rock artist LION and raucous grunge rock three-piece The Mysterines headline the stage. Over 80% of the British acts on this year’s line-up for Reading and Leeds have been supported by BBC Music Introducing across their careers, including The 1975, Royal Blood and Bastille.

On Thursday the Dance To The Radio Stage kicked off the party at Leeds Festival with Easy Life, whenyoung, Indoor Pets, BILK and DJ Jacky P and the lads from TPD TV headlined the infamous Piccadily Party.

Reading and Leeds Festival was the most environmentally-friendly yet this year, with a robust green initiative in place across both sites. See here for more information.

Reading and Leeds Festival worked with Safe Gigs For Women, The Samaritans and medical teams to ensure a happy and healthy festival-goers across the weekend. Safe Gigs for Women is an initiative established by regular gig goers with the aim of creating a safer environment for people at music events. The safe hubs were staffed by the British Red Cross and Festival Angels in campsites – serving as a safe and confidential space for festival goers seeking support from volunteers.

Both festivals were filled with special moments throughout the weekend, including surprise sets from alt-rock band The Sherlocks taking to the Festival Republic Stage, Love Fame Tragedy on the BBC Introducing Stage who were joined by Dan Smith from Bastille and on The Pit stage, a surprise gig from Bullet For My Valentine delivered a feast of heavy riffs and their biggest hits. Yungblud thrilled with his electric performance with Machine Gun Kellyjoining him on stage, whilst Frank Carter orchestrated a huge female-only mosh pit during an electrifying set with his band The Rattlesnakes, advocating for a safe space for everyone at Reading and Leeds.

Fans who missed out on tickets can catch up on the weekend’s highlights on BBC iPlayer.

Events

Soultasia Brings a Night of Soul & Disco to Reading This August

Published

16 hours ago

July 30, 2026

admin

Soul and disco fans are in for a treat as Soultasia makes its Reading debut with a spectacular open-air concert at Prospect Park on Friday 14 August 2026.

Running from 5:00pm to 10:30pm, the event promises an evening packed with timeless anthems and legendary performers, as one of the UK’s fastest-growing soul and disco concert brands brings its acclaimed live show to Berkshire.

The star-studded line-up features some of the biggest names in classic soul, funk and disco, including The Real Thing, Gwen Dickey – the iconic voice of Rose Royce – Odyssey, Loose Ends, and Phil Fearon & Galaxy. The evening will be hosted by Ian Reading, with DJ Darren Bull keeping the party going throughout the event.

Since launching in 2021, Soultasia has become one of the UK’s leading touring soul and disco festivals, attracting thousands of music lovers with its nostalgic celebrations of classic hits and legendary artists. The brand now stages events across the country, combining iconic live performances with a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Held in the picturesque surroundings of Prospect Park, the Reading edition is expected to draw fans from across the South East for an unforgettable summer evening of live entertainment. Tickets start from around £23 plus booking fees, with VIP Golden Circle upgrades also available for those wanting front-of-stage access and exclusive facilities.

Tickets are still available, but with strong demand expected, organisers are encouraging fans to book early to avoid disappointment.

With feel-good classics, singalong favourites and some of soul music’s most celebrated performers all on one stage, Soultasia Reading is shaping up to be one of the area’s standout live music events of the summer.

Soultasia Reading takes place on Friday 14 August 2026 at Prospect Park, Reading, from 5:00pm until 10:30pm.

Events

Just Ten Days to Go Until Stowaway’s 5th Birthday Celebration!

Published

1 week ago

July 21, 2026

admin

Stowaway Festival - main stage at night 2 (c) Alastair Brookes 2024

There’s just two weeks to go now until one of the UK’s fastest growing music festivals Stowaway Festival celebrates its fifth birthday. An independent, family-friendly festival, Stowaway is happening over the weekend of July 31st – August 2nd in idyllic surroundings near Stowe, north Buckinghamshire. Weekend tickets are still available starting from just £249, with adult day tickets costing £90 – purchase here.

On Friday July 30th, the incredible Brooklyn trio Say She She will top the bill, preceded by a stacked list of dance music luminaries including Eris Drew b2b Gallegos, Dr Banana, Move D, Alex Kassian, and DJ sets from Gabriels and Ishmael Ensemble. Legendary drum‘n’bass label Hospital Records will celebrate their 30th birthday with a takeover of the Shake Off stage with sets from London Elektricity, Lens, DJ Zinc and Makoto.

Saturday August 1st will see drum‘n’bass legend Skream headline Stowaway on a day which includes sets from Ewen McVicar, Calibre, Scientist, Francois K, 1-800 Girls, Nicky Blackmarket plus live performances from Emma-Jean Thackray and Joshua Idehen.

Sunday August 2nd will see the mighty Nightmares on Wax (DJ Set) & Kokoroko bring Stowaway to a close, preceded by Hot 8 Brass Band, WheelUP, Rohan Rakhit, and the hilarious Loco Cricket, which happens on the green on Sunday afternoon and always draws a huge crowd.

As well as its eclectic musical mix, Stowaway offers wild swimming, canoeing & paddle boarding, wellness & relaxation, kid’s activities (all included in the ticket price), and a lakeside woodland spa. The artisan food & drink available on site is carefully curated, with healthy and not-so-healthy eating options and no-and-low drinks as well as craft beers and cocktails.

Founded in 2022 by Duncan Wheeler, who grew up on Blackpit Farm, Stowaway is 100% independently owned and has no corporate sponsors. The festival’s inclusive mix of eclectic dance music with family friendly vibes is proving ever more popular – in 2025 they increased their audience by over 20%, bucking the trend in a very difficult market for the festival sector.

Created by friends, for friends, Stowaway is a secret world for you to discover.

“What makes Stowaway unique isn’t just their music or food, it’s the vibe. Everyone is there to have fun, smile, and make memories” ★★★★★ (Fab Festivals)

“Not only does Stowaway have a musical bill which is the envy of many bigger festivals, but it has clung to its roots as an intimate, laid-back, uncommercial family-friendly event” (Yahoo News UK)

For a taste of what to expect watch the Stowaway 2025 Aftermovie

Events

Reading Festival Unveils Biggest Arena Overhaul in Its History

Published

2 weeks ago

July 14, 2026

admin

Pepsi MAX presents Reading and Leeds Festival have announced major new plans for the on-site festival experience at both shows this summer, with a completely revamped stage layout that marks the biggest staging and arena overhaul in the festival’s 37 year history. This year’s Reading Festival is now SOLD OUT with only remaining Sunday Day Tickets available now at https://www.readingfestival.com/ with final Leeds Festival tickets available at https://www.leedsfestival.com/.

Synonymous with unforgettable weekends and always looking ahead to pioneer the next chapter in modern culture, this years’ Reading and Leeds Festival will see new stages with their own new identities offering an experience never seen before. These include:

The Grid

The home of the festival’s main stage, The Grid is where iconic headline moments happen. The greatest place to watch live music for the whole of summer, it’s a crowning platform that welcomes the biggest artists on the planet and those leading the way in the here and now. Expect to witness headliners Charli xcx, Fontaines D.C., Dave, Raye, Florence + The Machine and Chase & Status alongside Sombr, Skepta, Role Model, Loyle Carner (Reading only), Blossoms (Leeds only), Declan McKenna, Jade, Maisie Peters, Keo and more soundtracking The Grid this year, with Kasabian making history in Leeds as the first ever Thursday night headliner of Leeds Festival.

The Gallery presented by Budweiser

A brand new stage for 2026, The Gallery is an undercover immersive stage. Innovative LED screen lights and immersive production runs throughout the entire stage. The Gallery is ready to create iconic moments from Josh Baker, Geese, Kneecap, Skye Newman, Kettama and Holly Humberstone amongst others with Gunna, Chris Stussy and Viagra Boys adding to proceedings in Reading whilst Jamie Webster, The K’s and Rose Gray add to the lineup in Leeds. The Warehouse

Previously announced, The Warehouse is a brand-new purpose-built home for dance music with viewing platforms in front and behind the decks, plus huge screen production welcoming special sets from Skepta b2b Prospa, Hybrid Minds, Hedex, Silva Bumpa and Rossi. amongst others. Max Dean goes b2b with Luke Dean as well as Bou, in what will be the first ever custom built, experiential dance stage for Reading and Leeds.

The Ballroom

As the name might suggest, for the first-time ever, Reading and Leeds Festival will have a transformed stage complete with unique chandeliers and draping that plays host to artists who are defining and dominating 2026. Mixing together genre, styles and moments – The Ballroom is primed for legendary breakthrough sets from YT, Florence Road, Niko B, Paris Paloma, Bassvictim, Overpass, SPEED, Frost Children, Bleech 9:3, Westside Cowboy, Chloe Qisha, Radio Free Alice, dexter in the newsagent, WHATMORE and Clementine Douglas amongst others.

The Canopy

New music has been at the core of Reading and Leeds Festival since the very beginning, and in 2026 The Canopy will usher in a new chapter for new music – with a stage dedicated to festival fans’ next favourite artists. It will play host to the likes of Violet Grohl, Villanelle, December 10, Camille Blackman, Kibo, Finessekid, Cruz Beckham and The Breakers and more.

The Yard (Reading Only)

The Yard will bring the industrial edge of alternative club culture. Situated in the open-air with shipping containers The Yard this year will offer something completely different to any other stage at the festival.

These new stages are joined in Leeds Festival by the return of much-loved fan favourites LS23 (lineup for which was revealed last week and sits as one of the most popular late-night destinations) and Piccadilly Circus, with full programming to be revealed in the coming weeks. Leeds Festival sits as the only opportunity for fans to still secure their spot at Reading and Leeds Festival this summer to experience the full weekend’s programming, and ticket buyers are encouraged to purchase now to avoid disappointment.