Lollapalooza 2026 opened on Thursday 31 July with performances from Lorde, Wet Leg, Blood Orange and other artists. The opening day was notable for Lorde bringing Charli xcx on stage for a duet of the remix of “Girl, so confusing”, adding a high-profile surprise to the festival’s first day.

Other Thursday performers included Viagra Boys, Sombr, Little Simz, Boys Noize, Haute & Freddy and CMAT. The article is primarily a photo gallery documenting the day’s performances, while the festival is set to continue with acts including Charli xcx, The Smashing Pumpkins, Olivia Dean, Geese and The xx.