The full line-up for Rock N Roll Circus Sheffield 2026 has been revealed, with Babyshambles and Casisdead leading a massive wave of new additions to the August Bank Holiday weekend.
The festival, held at the Don Valley Bowl from 27th to 30th August, features a mix of indie icons and high-profile newcomers. Fronted by Peter Doherty, Babyshambles join Friday’s bill alongside The Streets, who are set to perform their classic album A Grand Don’t Come For Free in full.
This year’s event also highlights a “next generation” of talent with famous musical roots. Spanish Horses, featuring Albert Cocker (son of Pulp’s Jarvis Cocker), and Cruz Beckham and The Breakers have both joined the Thursday line-up. On Sunday, Villanelle, fronted by Gene Gallagher, will also take to the stage.
Peter Doherty said:
“There’s something about Rock N Roll Circus that sticks with you. It’s not just the music, it’s the whole world they build around it. We’ve had some brilliant moments there before, so bringing Babyshambles into that tent feels like coming back to something special.”
Sheffield legend Jon McClure of Reverend and The Makers also praised the event, noting that it represents the city “stepping up” and celebrating its rich music culture.
The four-day festival is packed with landmark performances:
- Thursday: The Kooks and Milburn perform their debut albums in full.
- Friday: The Streets and Babyshambles lead a day of indie and UK rap.
- Saturday: A guitar-focused day headlined by Wunderhorse and Baxter Dury.
- Sunday: A closing night featuring Richard Ashcroft, The Fratellis, Cast, and the newly added Embrace.
Beyond the music, the event lives up to its name by featuring aerialists, fire performers, and immersive circus acts throughout the site. All headline sets take place within the festival’s signature “Big Top,” ensuring the shows are weather-proof.
Festival Director Ali O’Reilly said:
“This is exactly what Rock N Roll Circus is about – bringing together iconic artists, celebrating huge records, and giving a platform to the next generation coming through. Sheffield has always backed us, and this year’s line-up feels like a real moment for the city.”
Tickets and VIP upgrades are currently available via the official festival website.
