The festival calendar continues to deliver big stories, with organisers unveiling fresh line-ups, artists breaking new ground on international stages, and reviewers reflecting on standout weekends across the UK, Europe and beyond. Alongside the celebrations, there are also moments of pause, as safety and wellbeing remain key concerns at major gatherings. Here’s a look at the latest developments shaping the festival circuit.
Festival News Round-Up
ASP Bring Idol Culture to Trafalgar Square
Japanese idol group ASP made their UK festival debut at Japan Matsuri in London’s Trafalgar Square. Bringing the colour, choreography, and high-energy performances of Japan’s idol culture to a major British stage, their set drew big crowds and plenty of new fans. The appearance marks a significant crossover moment for Japanese pop culture in the UK, showing the growing appetite for diverse global music scenes at British festivals.
Source: Electric Bloom Webzine
Heal Festival Shines Despite the Rain
Heal Festival 2025 delivered a memorable weekend in Shropshire despite persistent rain showers. Crowds turned out in force and spirits stayed high, with festivalgoers treated to live performances, wellbeing activities, and plenty of community spirit. A gallery of standout photos captured the mud-splattered joy, proving that weather is no match for the energy and connection of a good festival. Organisers hailed the event as one of their most successful yet.
Source: Shropshire Star
ArcTanGent 2025: A Triumph for Experimental Rock
ArcTanGent 2025 once again proved why it’s the UK’s premier experimental and math-rock festival. Fans were treated to a carefully curated bill packed with inventive, boundary-pushing acts, delivering an immersive weekend of complex rhythms, heavy riffs, and intimate community spirit. Reviewers praised both the music and the atmosphere, with ArcTanGent reaffirming its status as a festival that thrives on doing things differently while staying true to its underground ethos.
Source: Distorted Sound Magazine
Tomorrowland Hit by Tragedy
Tomorrowland was struck by tragedy on its opening night as a festivalgoer sadly died, marking the second such incident in the festival’s recent history. The event, renowned worldwide for its scale and production, was overshadowed by the news, sparking renewed conversations around safety and wellbeing at large-scale dance festivals. Organisers expressed their condolences and assured attendees of ongoing support, but the sombre note inevitably weighed heavily on proceedings.
Source: MSN
‘Galactic’ Opens Glasgow Cathedral Festival
The Glasgow Cathedral Festival launched in grand style with Galactic, a visually and musically striking opening night. The performance combined dramatic staging with powerful orchestral arrangements, creating an atmosphere that set the tone for the rest of the festival. Reviewers praised the event for blending tradition and innovation within a historic venue, underlining the festival’s ability to push creative boundaries while celebrating Glasgow’s cultural heritage.
Source: The Herald
Fortress Festival Adds More Names for 2026
Looking ahead, Fortress Festival has already announced another wave of names for its 2026 edition, building on its growing reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting alternative festivals. The additions promise an even bigger and bolder line-up, ensuring fans have plenty to look forward to. With tickets already in demand, organisers are positioning the event as a fixture for fans of forward-thinking rock and metal.
Source: Backseat Mafia
Music and Protest Collide in D.C.
A new wave of music-led protest events has emerged in Washington, D.C., blurring the line between festival and demonstration. Under the banner of “not-so-secret protests,” performers and activists have joined forces to bring issues of social justice to the fore through live music. The gatherings highlight how festival-style spaces can become platforms for activism, uniting crowds in both celebration and political expression at the heart of the U.S. capital.
Source: Trill Mag
Blink-182 Reunions Delight Fans
Blink-182’s recent live shows came with surprise guest appearances, including Descendents’ Stephen Egerton and a reunion with Alkaline Trio’s Matt Skiba. The collaborations thrilled fans, adding unexpected nostalgia and excitement to their sets. As the band continues its high-energy return to the stage, these moments underline their enduring influence on the pop-punk scene and keep audiences guessing what might come next.
Source: NME
FME 2025: A Canadian Creative Showcase
Festival de Musique Émergente (FME) 2025 cemented its place as Canada’s most creative and forward-thinking music festival. With an emphasis on new sounds, experimental genres, and immersive performances, the event pushed boundaries and spotlighted emerging talent. Reviewers praised its daring curation and strong community ethos, highlighting FME as a hub for discovery that consistently champions the future of music while celebrating its Québécois roots.
Source: The Line of Best Fit
SXSW London Confirms 2026 Return
SXSW London has confirmed it will return in 2026, with dates and ticket details now officially released. Following a successful debut, the event looks to expand its role as a major European hub for music, tech, and creative industries. The announcement gives fans and professionals plenty of time to plan, with expectations running high for an event that blends live music with cutting-edge cultural innovation on a global scale.
Source: Billboard
