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KENFEST just keeps getting bigger—and 2026 is our boldest year yet.
We’re bringing you our most exciting lineup to date, featuring the UK’s top Fleetwood Mac and ABBA tributes, powerhouse soul bands, and a packed roster of artists performing both originals and crowd-favourite covers. This year also shines a spotlight on local talent making serious noise on the music scene; emerging artists with big years ahead of them and unforgettable performances in store.
With so much happening across the weekend, choosing just one day might be impossible, so why not grab a weekend ticket and experience it all? Alongside our main-stage headliners, we’re thrilled to bring back our Acoustic Stage, proudly sponsored by The Station House @Poms. Designed to bring music right into the heart of the festival, it’s the perfect place to catch intimate sessions, rising stars, and hidden gems.
And as a final highlight, the winner of KENFEST CALLING will once again take the stage, adding fresh energy to an already exceptional celebration of live music.
KENFEST 2026 is shaping up to be unmissable. Make sure you’re part of it.
KENFEST CALLING is a thrilling battle of the bands competition all about showcasing the best local talent while championing live music across Coventry & Warwickshire. Across the last two festivals, over 60 bands vyed for a spot, with 20 making it to the February heats each year. This is where they competed for a coveted place on the HMV Empire stage in Coventry. This year, we'll be doing it all again!
But that’s not all—our winners won’t just play live in front of an audience of over a thousand; they’ll also enjoy a day at the renowned Woodbine Studios, recording one of their tracks with the legendary John Rivers, who’s worked with icons like The Specials, Paul Weller, and Ocean Colour Scene. And because we know how hard bands work, we’re giving our runners-up a day of rehearsal studio time!
Applications for KENFEST Calling 2026 open!
Buy your tickets today for an unmissable experience!
Yes. Click on the "Artist Sign Up" button above. The deadline for entry is 14th December.
Yes, you can apply as a solo singer, but you must use instruments. We will not be accepting applications with backing tracks
We will be selecting the successful applications during the week starting 15th December.
4 heats will be on:
- 9th January
- 10th January
- 30th January
- 31st January
The final will be on 12th March at HMV Empire, Coventry.
Yes, we are accepting cover bands. We just ask that you stand out by putting your own spin on the covers and showcasing your originality and creativity.
No, there isn’t an age limit. We encourage artists of all ages to perform their hearts out on stage. We do ask that anyone aged 16 and under is accompanied by a responsible adult.
The selection process at each heat will be as follows:
Besides enjoying a great night out with fellow music lovers, you’ll experience 5 fantastic bands showcasing their talents live on stage. You’ll also have the chance to vote for your favourite act or band, helping them advance to the final at The HMV Empire in Coventry.
Yes, but we would prefer it if people bought tickets in advance to make entry easier for everyone.
No, everyone with a ticket is welcome to attend the heats.
Yes, the age limit at the venue is 14+. All attendees under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
