Slam Dunk Festival has kicked off celebrations for its 20th anniversary by announcing the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition. The UK’s largest independent rock festival will return to Hatfield Park on 23 May and Temple Newsam in Leeds on 24 May.

Headlining the festival is iconic pop-punk band Good Charlotte, returning to the UK for their first headline appearance at Slam Dunk in years. Fans will also be treated to a historic performance from Sublime, who are set to play their very first UK show, marking a milestone moment for British audiences eager to experience the band’s legendary ska-punk sound live. Meanwhile, Taking Back Sunday will celebrate the 20th anniversary of their seminal album Louder Now with a special commemorative set, revisiting the tracks that helped define a generation of emo and alternative rock fans.

Alongside these headliners, the initial lineup includes a diverse range of acts from across the alternative music spectrum. Metalcore heavyweights Bury Tomorrow will bring their intense live energy, while emo stalwarts Dashboard Confessional promise a set full of nostalgia. Pop-punk bands Driveways and Zebrahead, ska-punk veterans Goldfinger, and fan favorites Hawthorne Heights and Motion City Soundtrack will also take to the stages. Rising and established acts such as PRESIDENT, Stand Atlantic, The Home Team, Tonight Alive, and Unpeople round out the announcement, offering something for every fan of the festival’s rich musical heritage.

Slam Dunk Festival has long been celebrated for its ability to balance legendary names with emerging talent, and this year’s lineup continues that tradition. The first announcement captures the festival’s dedication to celebrating its past while introducing new experiences for fans, making the 2026 edition a milestone event.

Tickets for both Hatfield and Leeds go on sale on Saturday, 27 September 2025, with festival organisers warning that demand is expected to be high. Slam Dunk founder Ben Ray expressed his excitement for the anniversary celebrations, saying, “Reaching 20 years is incredible. We’ve grown from a small festival into something that means so much to fans and bands alike. This line-up shows our commitment to celebrating the past, present, and future of rock music in the UK. We can’t wait to see everyone in May.”