A major new music festival, “American Express presents Roundhay Festival,” is set to launch in Leeds’ historic Roundhay Park in the summer of 2026. Organized by global entertainment giant AEG Presents, the festival aims to become a central fixture in the north of England’s cultural calendar, drawing world-class artists and delivering significant economic and social benefits to the region.
A Legacy of Sound in Roundhay Park
Roundhay Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks, boasts a rich history of hosting legendary musical performances. Over the decades, the park has welcomed iconic artists such as Madonna, U2, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, and more recently, Ed Sheeran. The Roundhay Festival intends to build upon this esteemed legacy, bringing a new era of live music to the expansive 700-acre grounds. AEG Presents, renowned for organizing major events like BST Hyde Park and All Points East in London, brings extensive experience and a proven track record to this ambitious new venture.
World-Class Artists and Community Engagement
The festival promises to feature live music from “some of the world’s biggest stars,” with the first headliner set to be announced shortly. American Express is the presenting partner, offering exclusive presale access and on-site benefits to its card members, mirroring its involvement with other AEG Presents events like BST Hyde Park.
Beyond the main weekend programming, the Roundhay Festival is committed to community integration and local talent development. A key initiative includes a midweek program of free-to-access activities designed for all ages, focusing on arts, culture, and well-being, providing a platform for local artists and encouraging continuous use of the park throughout the summer.
Educational Partnerships and Economic Boost
In a significant move towards nurturing future talent, the festival is partnering with Roundhay School to offer students practical experience in the live music industry and event management. This collaboration aims to provide vital skills and insight into career opportunities within the creative sectors, fostering local development.
The establishment of the Roundhay Festival is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Leeds and the wider region. By engaging local suppliers, employing local staff, and boosting spending on accommodation, food, and entertainment, the festival is projected to generate significant economic activity. This aligns with Leeds City Council’s vision for the event to act as a showcase for the city, enhancing its national and international profile. Previous cultural initiatives in Leeds, such as LEEDS 2023, have demonstrated the potential for large-scale events to drive tourism, create jobs, and deliver considerable economic gains.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
AEG Presents has emphasized a commitment to sustainability, a principle that will underpin all decisions related to powering the festival, managing waste, and partnering with local food vendors. This approach reflects AEG’s broader efforts in promoting greener festival practices, as seen with their certified initiatives at BST Hyde Park and All Points East.
The Roundhay Festival is positioned to become a significant new player in the UK festival scene, potentially filling a void left by Glastonbury’s planned hiatus in 2026. As plans develop, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark event, offering a mix of top-tier music, community engagement, and economic uplift for Leeds. The festival’s success will depend on its ability to deliver an unforgettable fan experience while upholding its commitment to the local community and the environment, contributing to new music news and exciting releases from artists performing there.
