By Sofia Zarkov, Fourth Year, English and Spanish
Now entering its fifth year, the festival has become a regular fixture of Bristol’s summer calendar, bringing together international artists, emerging talent and cultural discussions across a two-day programme while remaining rooted in the city’s independent music and creative scene.
Saturday’s lineup features an all-female set of headliners, with Grammy Award winning Nigerian R&B singer Tems, UK pop artist Self Esteem and indie duo Wet Leg. Electronic duo Maribou State will also perform as special guests.
Tems has risen to international fame in recent years and is widely recognised as one of the leading voices in contemporary R&B, with her collaboration with UK rapper Dave on ‘Raindance’ reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart. Her appearance at FORWARDS will mark her first time performing in Bristol. Wet Leg gained international attention following the success of their debut album and breakout single ‘Chaise Longue’, while Self Esteem, the project of singer Rebecca Lucy Taylor, has become known for bold theatrical pop and confessional songwriting.
Also appearing on Saturday are singer songwriter Joy Crookes, Bristol trip hop pioneer Tricky, drum and bass artist Goldie performing live and Paraorchestra presenting Kraftwerk Re: Werk with Charles Hazlewood.
Sunday will be headlined by Little Simz, Amyl & The Sniffers and Dijon. Simz won the Mercury Prize for her album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in UK hip hop. The Melbourne punk band bring their trademark fast paced garage punk sound and explosive live energy, while American singer-songwriter, multi- instrumentalist and record producer Dijon will be making his Bristol debut.
The Sunday lineup also includes Viagra Boys, Oklou, Jim Legxacy, Princess Nokia, Jean Dawson, Gena featuring Liv.e and Karriem Riggins, and Anaiis.
Sophie Scannell
Benji Chapman
Alongside the music programme, the festival’s Information stage will return, hosting talks, debates and panel discussions with artists, activists and community organisers on culture, social issues and grassroots movements.
Tickets go on pre-sale at 10:00 GMT on 17th March, with general sale opening at 10:00 GMT on 18th March.
Featured image: Plaster / Giulia SpadaforaWill you be at FORWARDS Festival 2026?!
