Green Island Festival has released the first wave of its 2026 lineup, leading with a packed programme of internationally recognised artists, Manchester electronic pioneers and emerging talent across its signature three chapter format.
Returning on 6 June, 25 July and 5 September, the festival once again spans the brilliant Hulme Community Garden Centre, the NIAMOS centre and the surrounding streets, hosting five stages from midday to 9.30pm.
This year’s announced performers include 808 State, A Guy Called Gerald, BCUC, Blue Lab Beats, DJ Paulette, JayaHadADream, Raz & Alfa and Ruf Dug.
The Street Stage will honour Manchester’s electronic heritage with DJ Paulette in June, 808 State in July and A Guy Called Gerald in September.
Next door at NIAMOS, Blue Lab Beats headline June, BCUC bring their politically charged live show in July, and JayaHadADream joins Raz & Alfa for September’s chapter.
On the Bandstand Stage, Ruf Dug returns in June with his Ruf Kutz takeover, ROJAK MCR x Dance Policy collaborate in July, and Freedom Masses Soundsystem close out September. The Selector Stage invites Léna C in June, Supernature Disco x Out Since Friday in July, and SIT & BUN vs HIT & RUN in September.
The Marquee Stage spotlights rising vocalists and bands including Moli, Zawedde and Anna Lynch in June, The Thiara Collective and Bossa Dos Patos in July, and Midnight Matters with Flat Moon in September.
A new addition for 2026 is a family area curated by Z-arts, offering creative workshops, storytelling and nature-inspired activities designed to make the festival more accessible to families and younger visitors.
Green Island continues its partnerships with Play It Green, meaning every ticket sold contributes to reforestation and supports MIND, and with Eat Well MCR, giving festival-goers the option to donate £1 when purchasing tickets or food.
First held in 2020, the festival has become one of Manchester’s most distinctive grassroots events.
Each event runs from 12pm–9.30pm, with tickets now on sale starting from £26.25. Group tickets are available, and entry remains free for children aged 13 and under.
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