Event Preview: The Brighton Rock’n’Roll Circus Returns for 2026
Get ready for a high-octane takeover of the South Coast as Kick Out The Jams presents the return of The Brighton Rock’n’Roll Circus. Running from Wednesday, 13th May to Saturday, 16th May 2026, the festival will transform The Font in Union Street into a four-day hub of pure, unadulterated energy.
Known for its eclectic programming and “no-filler” lineups, the Circus has become a staple of the Brighton music scene, offering fans a chance to see emerging talent and established underground legends in an intimate, high-energy setting.
The Opening Night Party
The festivities kick off on Wednesday, 13th May with a massive Free Entry opening night party. Doors open at 7:30 PM, featuring a stacked bill designed to set the tone for the week:
- COWZ
- Maya (Likes to Run Her Mouth)
- Bones / Arfa
- Nomad Shakes
The Full Lineup
The first wave of artists for the 2026 edition has been officially announced, showcasing over 40 acts across the four-day residency. The lineup includes:
A.R.T | See Orange | Sweet Unrest | Away Fans | JW Paris | Swindled | Bones Ate Arfa | Kahula | Sypha | Carne | Kat Five | The Author | Chest | Korda Korder | The Kellows | Cowz | Luna Rosa | The Outers | Craig Smith | Maya | The Sick Fix | Currls | Monumental | The Silverados | Dead Rat Society | Nomad Shakes | Toy Parlour | El Capitan | Pat Dam Smyth | Tres Kings | Fanchon | Run Remedy | Twin City | Gabby Rivers | Screens | Velvet Echoes | Hollows | Split Second | Work In TV | Hot Property | Steel
What the Critics Say
The festival has earned a reputation for its relentless pace and top-tier curation. Reflecting on previous iterations, Brighton & Hove News praised its unique atmosphere and quality:
“The Rock’n’Roll Circus certainly livens up Brighton’s Font… it’s a non-stop parade of talent that keeps the energy levels peaking from start to finish.”
They also have aknack for picking “the next big thing,” :
“A perfect snapshot of the current grassroots scene… you’re guaranteed to walk away with a new favorite band.”
Event Details
- Dates: 13th – 16th May 2026
- Venue: The Font, Union St, Brighton, BN1 1HA
- Tickets: Available via DICE
- Sponsors: Blaggers Records, The Songbird, End of the Trail, Milk, and Bubblebrain.
Whether you’re a die-hard garage rock fan or just looking for the best live music Brighton has to offer during the festival season, The Brighton Rock’n’Roll Circus 2026 is an essential date for your diary.
