The Great Escape Adds 100+ Artists for 2026 Edition
The The Great Escape has announced a further wave of more than 100 artists for its 2026 edition, marking the event’s 20th anniversary. The newly confirmed acts will join a line-up of emerging international talent set to perform across multiple venues in Brighton from 13–16 May.
The latest additions span a wide range of genres and territories, including Arima Ederra (US), ARXX (UK), Bella Kay (US), and Ben Ellis (UK). Bimini (UK) is also confirmed to appear as part of a Spotlight Show supporting Peaches at Brighton Dome Concert Hall on 15 May. Other additions include Ceebo (UK), Charlotte Plank (UK), Chase Icon (US), Do Nothing (UK), and Gans (UK).
Further artists joining the programme include Girl in the Year Above (IE/UK), Girl Scout (SE), The Healing Power of Horses (UK), Kerr Mercer (UK), Lauren Duffus (UK), Madmadmad (UK), Max Winter (UK), My First Time (UK), Nectar Woode (UK), PVA (UK), and Sassy 009 (NO). The announcement also features Sunday Mourners (US), The Haunted Youth (BE), The Orchestra (For Now) (UK), The Skinner Brothers (UK), The Tullamarines (AU), Tom Rasmussen (UK), Tommy Barlow (UK), Tsatsamis (UK), and Y (UK).
In addition to the artist announcement, organisers have introduced a new initiative for 2026, TGE Wristband Rewards. The programme will offer festival attendees access to discounts and benefits across selected local businesses in Brighton. Participating locations include Shelter Hall, Helm Gallery, Stanley Road Department Store, The Chilli Pickle, Beach Box Spa, and Family Store. Offers are expected to include discounts and in-store incentives, with full details available via the festival’s official app.
Founded in 2006, The Great Escape has developed into one of Europe’s key showcase festivals for new music, combining a city-wide live programme with a dedicated industry conference. The event is widely attended by booking agents, promoters, managers and record industry professionals seeking emerging talent, and has played an early role in the international exposure of numerous artists.
The 2026 edition is set to feature more than 450 emerging artists across over 35 walkable venues in Brighton, alongside its conference programme, which runs in parallel and focuses on current trends and developments within the global live music business.