Charli XCX set to create history with record-breaking performance

British singer Charli XCX is set to headline Reading and Leeds 2026, kicking off what promises to be a historic Bank Holiday weekend for music fans. 

The 33-year-old pop superstar, who recently grabbed headlines with her Wuthering Heights movie songs, will be joined at Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds from August 27–30 by Chase & Status, Dave, Florence + The Machine, Fontaines D.C., and RAYE.

Notably, it’s the first time in 25 years that the festival will boast an all-British and Irish headline bill.

Leeds Festival is breaking new ground too, opening the Main Stage on Thursday with Kasabian as inaugural headliners.

Beyond that, festival-goers can look forward to an eclectic mix of talent, including Skepta, Sombr, Role Model, Jade, Josh Baker, Kneecap, Kettama, Chris Stussy (Reading only), Geese, Skye Newman, Adéla, and Keo.

For RAYE, the announcement is a dream come true. 

She made her Reading and Leeds debut in 2024, recalling a teenage visit to the festival after finishing her GCSEs. 

“You know what, listen guys… I had a dream, and look at me now, it’s all possible,” she told the crowd.

After this year’s shows headlined by Chappell Roan, Travis Scott, Bring Me The Horizon, and Hozier, the 2026 festival is shaping up to be a Bank Holiday to remember, celebrating the best of homegrown music.

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