North London's vibrant summer music scene is set to receive a major boost as the eagerly anticipated Kaleidoscope Festival announces its impressive line-up for 2026. The event returns to the stunning Alexandra Palace Park for its sixth consecutive year, promising a day of exceptional music, comedy, and family entertainment against the backdrop of sweeping panoramic views across the capital.
Chart-Topping Headliners and Iconic Support Acts
Taking centre stage at this year's hilltop festival will be the acclaimed British drum & bass collective Rudimental. Fresh from the release of their self-titled fifth album, the group will deliver a high-energy live performance packed with their signature anthems, classic tracks, and deep sound system roots that have defined their career.
They will be powerfully supported by former Kaleidoscope headliners Groove Armada, who return to the festival for a blistering DJ set that promises to ignite the crowd. Adding to the musical pedigree is a live performance from underground UK garage hero MJ Cole, famed for his breakthrough track "Sincere," which helped propel the garage genre into the mainstream and secured a place in the UK Top 40.
A Diverse and Celebratory Musical Line-Up
The festival's musical offerings extend far beyond the headline acts. Celebrating thirty years since their iconic album "It's Great When You're Straight," Black Grape—the creative brainchild of Happy Mondays' Shaun Ryder and Ruthless Rap Assassins' Paul Leveridge (Kermit)—will bring their unique sound to the stage.
Legendary drum 'n' bass pioneer Roni Size is also confirmed to appear, alongside The Amy Winehouse Band. Led by Amy's longtime musical director and bass player Dale Davis, this special performance will honour the legacy of one of North London's most unforgettable voices through songs from her acclaimed albums. To get the party started, Manchester's legendary DJ and broadcaster DJ Paulette will bring the sound of summer to the decks.
Comedy, Culture, and Family Experiences
True to its eclectic name, Kaleidoscope Festival's programme extends well beyond music. The comedy stage will be headlined by the sharp wit of stand-up comic Russell Kane, who will be joined by the hilarious storytelling talents of Olga Koch, Emmanuel Sonubi, and Bella Hull.
A dedicated family area will feature an array of interactive workshops and performances, including Silly Science, Circus Sensible, African Acrobatic Circus, and traditional Punch & Judy Shows. Festival-goers can also enjoy pop-up arts and theatre, an Interactive Mural Wall, and the astonishing World's Tallest Bubbleologist.
Further enriching the day are unique experiences such as Some Voices Choir, Bez's Acid House Experience, Hip Hop Karaoke, and Disco Yoga, ensuring there is something to captivate every attendee.
Exploring Alexandra Palace and Festival Details
In keeping with the festival's adventurous spirit, attendees are invited to explore rarely seen corners of the historic Alexandra Palace. This includes immersive experiences within its atmospheric Victorian basements, alongside a variety of food stalls, bars, and plenty of surprises scattered throughout the expansive parkland site.
The Kaleidoscope Festival takes place on Saturday, July 11, from 1pm to 10.30pm. Tickets are available, with prices starting from £13.20 and rising to £61.59, offering accessible options for a full day of entertainment.
Festival director Simon Fell commented: "Kaleidoscope Festival has been running since 2018 and has become a real staple of London's summer. This year's line-up is a celebration of the golden age of garage, house, and drum'n'bass - the sound of London - alongside comedy, culture, and family experiences."
He added: "It's a festival like no other; a place for the curious, for music lovers, for families, where you can explore our park, take in panoramic views of the capital, and even discover parts of Alexandra Palace you wouldn't normally see."
