Festwich

Festwich is the music festival with all the biggest names, from Joy Division to Pink Floyd. Ok, so they’re not the real thing but it’s as close as you’ll get without a time machine. The emphasis is on fun and ticket prices are a lot more accessible when you’re watching a tribute act.

It has a rock edge but it’s family-friendly too. Think of it as a cross between Reading (and Leeds) Festival on the hardcore day crossed with Stars In Your Eyes.

Festwich 2026

11-12 July, Heaton Park

The theatrics and rock god approximations of Festwich continue to get bigger and better in its third year at Heaton Park.

There are now five bars and over 30 bands across three stages plus food stalls and thrill rides to boot. Festwich is best known for its rock reincarnations but the heavy stuff is strictly for Saturday whilst Sunday sees a more indie pop take on the tribute act.

Saturday’s headliners include Link N Park and the return of Metal Militia (the Metallica tribute who headlined last year). Look out for Flint Fire (a Prodigy tribute), Angry Hair (An Alice in Chains tribute), and Megadeth UK (you can probably work that one out). Pun of the day goes to PearlScam.

Sunday’s biggest names are Young Elton, Michael Mathers (an Eminem tribute), Green Days and Fontaines CD. Liqueur beats the rest for most puntastic name.

See the full line-up here.