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Wilderness Festival 2026: Five Must-See Acts
Wilderness Festival returns to the Oxfordshire countryside from 30 July to 2 August 2026, offering more than just music with wild swimming, saunas, sports-day games and a dedicated books tent alongside its line-up of over 130 artists. Clash Magazine's William Burgess highlights five acts not to miss across the long weekend, spanning festival headliners, buzzy newcomers and specialist showcases.
Scissor Sisters top the pick as one of four headliners, promising a joyous party atmosphere, while Modern Woman bring their acclaimed debut album 'Johnny's Dreamworld' to the Saturday bill. Belgian duo 2manydjs headline the over-18s late-night Valley stage, and the Women in Jazz showcase in The Atrium features singer Bel Cobain and 18-piece Afro-Cuban outfit New Regency Orchestra. Unsigned newcomers benchwarmer, formed in early 2025, round out the list as a rising act to catch early at The Dive on Friday.
In short
- Wilderness Festival runs 30 July–2 August 2026 in Oxfordshire
- Scissor Sisters, 2manydjs and Modern Woman among highlighted acts
- Festival features 130+ artists plus swimming, saunas and sports
Explained simply
Wilderness is a summer festival held in the Oxfordshire countryside, combining live music with activities such as wild swimming, sports and talks. Its programme spans several days and includes well-known performers alongside newer acts and specialist showcases.
The five acts highlighted represent different parts of the bill: Scissor Sisters are one of the headliners, while Modern Woman and emerging band benchwarmer feature among the newer names. DJ duo 2manydjs and the Women in Jazz showcase, including Bel Cobain and New Regency Orchestra, add late-night dance music and jazz to the mix.
The festival’s wider programme includes a books tent, saunas and games as well as performances. This variety helps explain why Wilderness draws people interested in more than a traditional music line-up.
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