From a small gathering of friends in 2005 to one of the Peak District’s biggest music weekends, Y Not Festival has continued its remarkable journey with a record-breaking 2026 edition.
The festival welcomed thousands of music fans for its biggest year yet, expanding its capacity from 28,000 to 33,000 and delivering a packed programme that brought together legendary names, rising stars and a host of unforgettable experiences beyond the stages.
The Reytons kicked off the weekend in spectacular fashion, headlining Friday night on The Big Gin Stage with their trademark energy and anthemic indie sound. Saturday saw Two Door Cinema Club take centre stage, celebrating 15 years of their acclaimed debut album Tourist History with a set packed full of fan favourites.
Bringing the festival to a close on Sunday, The Streets delivered their distinctive blend of hip-hop, garage and electronic sounds, ensuring the final night ended on a high.
Alongside the headline performances, Y Not once again showcased its reputation for supporting the next generation of festival favourites. Emerging artists including Keo, Pale Waves, The Snuts, Overpass, Black Honey, The Lottery Winners, Dea Matrona, The Royston Club and Florence Road all delivered standout performances across the weekend.
The festival also welcomed a host of established acts, with crowds enjoying sets from The Libertines, Kaiser Chiefs, Happy Mondays, Rizzle Kicks, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Scissor Sisters, The Enemy and The Vaccines.
Away from the main stages, the expanded festival site offered more ways for visitors to get involved. The Hog & Barrel pub and music venue received major upgrades, the Strawberry Fields family area returned with improvements, and two new late-night spaces were introduced.
Dubtendo combined video game culture with UK bass music, while Sub Culture created an underground rave experience inspired by the Peak District’s folklore and soundsystem heritage.
There was plenty more to discover across the site, from fancy dress competitions and paint fights to the unforgettable sight of a fire-breathing, saxophone-playing dragon. The Hog & Barrel also hosted a giant pub quiz, attracting almost 2,000 participants in what could become one of the UK’s largest single-venue quizzes.
With its countryside setting, welcoming atmosphere and mix of iconic performers and future stars, Y Not Festival’s 2026 edition cemented its place as a major fixture on the UK festival calendar.
The festival will return to the Peak District from 29 July to 1 August 2027 for a special 20th anniversary celebration. Super early bird tickets go on sale on Friday, 7 August, with pre-sale registration available now via the festival website.
