The ultimate summer-ending festival, Forwards, brings the biggest names in international music to Bristol for an electrifying two days (August 29 and 30). As one of the UK’s most forward-thinking festivals, pairing globally celebrated artists with homegrown talent, the 2026 co-headliners might make this the best edition yet.
From first-time Bristol performers like Tems and Dijon to returning festival favourites like Little Simz and Self Esteem, Forwards brings its independent spirit back to the Downs. While also hosting timely debates, grassroots voices and big ideas at the festival’s acclaimed ‘Information’ stage.
Who is performing at this year’s Forwards?
Saturday will play host to all female co-headliners, with Grammy Award-winning Nigerian star Tems, whose soulful, globally resonant sound has made her one of the defining voices of contemporary R&B, alongside UK powerhouse Self Esteem and indie trailblazers Wet Leg, both renowned for their bold lyricism and electrifying live performances.
On Sunday, co-headliners feature Mercury Prize-winning rapper and cultural force Little Simz, whose artistry continues to redefine British hip-hop, alongside the explosive Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers and acclaimed American singer-songwriter Dijon.
“Reaching five years of FORWARDS feels like a major milestone,” said Tom Paine, Co-founder of Team Love. “From the beginning, our aim has been to build a festival that reflects Bristol’s community action, creativity and diversity, whilst bringing global music artists to the city each summer.
“Our 2026 lineup feels like the perfect way to celebrate this journey together, with incredible music artists we are proud to see return to FORWARDS now as headliners, alongside first-time headliners – making it our most broad & diverse music offering to date with both days offering something for everyone.”
Forwards festival 2026 line-up:
Saturday, August 29
Tems | Self Esteem | Wet Leg
Joy Crookes | Tricky I Goldie (Live)
Paraorchestra Presents Kraftwerk Re:Werk W/ Charles Hazlewood
Plus Special Guests: Maribou State
Sunday, August 30
Little Simz | Amyl & The Sniffers | Dijon
Viagra Boys | Oklou | Jim Legxacy
Princess Nokia I Jean Dawson
Gena Ft. Liv.E & Karriem Riggins | Anaiis
Tickets for Forwards go on pre-sale at 10am on Tuesday, March 17, with general sale live from 10am on Wednesday, March 18, here.
