Henley Festival Presented by Hemani has unveiled a dazzling programme for 2026, promising five magical black-tie summer nights from 08 to 12 July on the banks of the River Thames.
With a star-studded line-up, world-class arts experiences and a renewed commitment to nurturing emerging talent, the UK’s only black-tie music and arts festival is set to deliver another unforgettable celebration.
This year also marks a major new partnership, with Berkshire-based innovation investor Hemani confirmed as headline sponsor. The company’s backing ensures continued growth of the Festival’s charitable RISE programme, which supports the next generation of musicians, visual artists and backstage creatives.
Read more: Hemani announced as Henley Festival’s Headline Sponsor for 2026
Joe Hemani, Chairman of Hemani Ventures, said: “Hemani is excited to be Henley Festival’s 2026 headline sponsor. We recognise the impact that Henley Festival’s RISE programme has had since its launch in 2022 and are delighted that through our sponsorship we can support Henley Festival in its mission to champion the next generation of emerging talent in the arts.”
More than just a glamorous date in the summer calendar, Henley Festival is a charity at heart. Through RISE — including Audi Presents RISE Music and the Early RISErs initiative — young performers, visual artists and aspiring production professionals are given invaluable opportunities to learn, perform and flourish alongside established stars.
Chief Executive Jo Bausor said:
“Henley Festival creates the most special, unforgettable experiences. From emerging artists to established headliners, performances are pure joy – buzzy, energetic and certain to have everyone on their feet until the early hours.
“We are delighted to continue supporting the next generation of talent with the RISE programme – from Audi Presents RISE Music to visual arts to Hemani’s Early RISErs – it is so exciting to contribute to the creative journeys of both new and returning artists.
“This year’s starry line up promises to continue this fantastic atmosphere, and whether you’re a newcomer or returning, it is not only our performers but our audience who bring the glamour and feel-good factor.
“Dressed up in black-tie from sequins to suits, dancing to your favourite artists in a beautiful riverside setting, all festival-goers love how they can be part of the spectacle themselves.”
Floating Stage headliners
Taking centre stage on the Festival’s iconic Floating Stage are global music legends and crowd favourites.
Opening the Festival are Grammy Award-winning icons Boy George & Culture Club, whose explosive arrival in 1982 reshaped popular culture. With more than 100 million singles and 50 million albums sold worldwide, and timeless hits including ‘Karma Chameleon’ and ‘Do You Really Want to Hurt Me’, they remain one of Britain’s most influential musical exports.
Thursday sees pop royalty Sugababes bring six Number One singles and multi-platinum success to the Thames, fresh from their record-breaking Glastonbury performances and arena tours.
Friday belongs to the UK’s enduring rock and roll icon Lulu. A Eurovision winner, Bond theme vocalist and OBE recipient, Lulu continues to captivate audiences across generations. She said: “I can’t wait to perform at Henley Festival in the summer and to give them one hell of a show with all the hits and a few surprises!”
Closing Friday night is Björn Again, the original Australian ABBA homage credited with helping spark the global ABBA revival. Creator Rod Stephen said: “I am personally very pleased for the invitation for the Björn Again show to appear once again at the Henley Festival, and in support of the RISE charity programme. 2026 marks Björn Again’s 38th anniversary and the show will definitely be another triumph. I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone having a great time in Henley this Summer.”
Saturday brings Alex James’ Britpop Classical — a powerful orchestral reimagining of 90s anthems — featuring special guests Phil Daniels, Saffron (Republica) and Gary Stringer (Reef).
The Festival concludes with Bootleg Beatles, the world-renowned tribute formed from the West End cast of Beatlemania. They said: “We last played Henley – the best dressed festival in the UK – in 2024. A beautiful Summer’s evening, a packed tent with a sing-along party crowd, and afterwards England beat Holland in the Euro’s semifinals. What more could you wish for? Looking forward to another great night!”
Beyond the Floating Stage
Henley Festival’s magic extends far beyond its headline acts. Pure Heaven – The Festival Club will host Mercury Prize winners Ezra Collective and Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems set, celebrating the decade that defined Britpop and dance culture.
Comedy at the Paradiso and Riverside stages features leading names including Alan Davies, Russell Kane, Geoff Norcott, Suzi Ruffell and Julian Clary.
Across the site, visitors can explore curated visual arts galleries and sculpture gardens, jazz and swing performances, world music in the Bedouin Tent, and a vibrant Playdate family programme packed with science shows, circus skills, storytelling and interactive art workshops.
All of it unfolds in Henley’s glamorous riverside setting — sequins, tuxedos and fireworks lighting up the Thames — reinforcing Henley Festival’s reputation as a uniquely immersive celebration of music, arts and philanthropy.
With global icons, rising stars and an unwavering charitable mission at its core, Henley Festival Presented by Hemani 2026 promises five extraordinary nights where culture, creativity and community meet in spectacular style.
