Rock N Roll Circus is back in Sheffield for its biggest year yet, and organisers have confirmed that rock titans Queens of the Stone Age will be leading the charge. The festival, which returns to Don Valley Bowl in summer 2025, promises more stages, more circus magic, and an unforgettable lineup.
Queens of the Stone Age will take centre stage on Wednesday, 27th August, bringing their signature sound and swagger to Yorkshire. Hot on the heels of their latest album In Times New Roman, the American rock legends will be joined by an electrifying lineup of special guests, including Viagra Boys, Fat Dog, The Bug Club, and So Good.
This is a must-see event for music fans, as the band makes a rare UK appearance with only one other show on their schedule—headlining Victorious Festival in Portsmouth. Sheffield, a city deeply connected to the band’s history, will once again play host to one of rock’s most influential acts. Frontman Joshua Homme’s ties to the city run deep, particularly through his work with Arctic Monkeys on their Humbug album.
Formed in the 1990s in Palm Desert, California, Queens of the Stone Age have never been a band that fits neatly into a single genre. From anthems like No One Knows and Little Sister to My God is the Sun and Emotion Sickness, they have continually redefined rock music. Known for their dark, hypnotic riffs and high-energy performances, the band—comprised of Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Michael Shuman, Dean Fertita, and Jon Theodore—has built a reputation as one of the greatest live acts of all time.
Rock N Roll Circus is growing in every way for 2025, with expanded stages, jaw-dropping circus performances, and an experience that blends world-class music with theatrical spectacle. Festival organiser Ali O’Reilly commented: “We’re taking Rock N Roll Circus to the next level in 2025. Bringing a band such as Queens of the Stone Age to Sheffield is a huge moment for us, and we can’t wait to welcome them to the Big Top in August. They are the perfect act to open our celebrations and fit everything that our brand is trying to achieve. It’s been a long time since they’ve performed in this part of the world, and we’re honoured and excited to have them.”
Attendees can expect an immersive festival experience, with extended opening hours, a bustling food and drink village, and an enhanced VIP offering featuring premium viewing areas and exclusive perks. Across three stages, festivalgoers will witness a carefully curated lineup, with Queens of the Stone Age personally selecting the acts for their headline day.
Beyond the music, the festival’s circus attractions will take centre stage, with breathtaking aerial performances, fire breathers, and gravity-defying stunts creating a unique, high-energy atmosphere unlike any other UK festival.
With Queens of the Stone Age leading the way and more major announcements to come, Rock N Roll Circus 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Tickets are expected to sell fast—so fans should be ready for an experience like no other when the circus rolls into town this summer.
