Leeds is set to become a focal point for major live music events with the announcement of the American Express presents Roundhay Festival, a significant new music festival slated to debut in Roundhay Park in Summer 2026. Esteemed live entertainment company AEG Presents, known for organizing acclaimed events such as BST Hyde Park and All Points East in London, is behind the ambitious venture, aiming to establish Roundhay Festival as a central fixture in the north of England’s cultural calendar.
A New Era for Leeds’ Musical Landscape
The official news, released on September 12, 2025, heralds a new chapter for Roundhay Park, a venue with a rich and storied history of hosting monumental concerts. This major music festival is a collaboration between AEG Presents and Leeds City Council, with American Express serving as the presenting partner. The partnership is expected to bring world-class artists, cutting-edge production, and an unparalleled fan experience to Leeds.
Jim King, CEO of AEG Presents UK and European Festivals, expressed his enthusiasm: “Everyone at AEG is thrilled to announce the launch of the Roundhay Festival in Leeds. This landmark event gives us the opportunity to bring world-class artists and world-leading production to even more fans, while building on the park’s incredible musical legacy.” He added, “We are determined to bring value to the park, the city, and the wider region. By working closely with local people and businesses, we aim to create a festival that everyone in Leeds can be proud of.”
Roundhay Park: A Stage for Legends
Roundhay Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks spanning over 700 acres, has long been a beloved destination for massive outdoor events. Its expansive grounds have previously witnessed legendary performances from global superstars. Icons such as The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Michael Jackson, U2, Bruce Springsteen, and most recently, Ed Sheeran, have all graced the park’s stages, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans and cementing its status as a premier concert venue. The park’s capacity has recently seen approval for increases, allowing for crowds of up to 69,999, signaling its readiness to host events of this magnitude.
Festival Format and Community Engagement
The American Express presents Roundhay Festival is anticipated to follow a successful model similar to AEG’s BST Hyde Park. This typically involves major headline artist performances over weekends, supported by a diverse lineup of emerging and established talent. Beyond the main music programming, a key feature will be a midweek program of free activities. These events are designed to be accessible to all ages and will showcase high-quality arts, culture, and wellbeing initiatives. Crucially, this midweek schedule aims to provide a dedicated platform for local talent, fostering community engagement and encouraging continuous use of the park throughout the summer.
Leeds City Council leader, Councillor James Lewis, highlighted the festival’s potential impact: “Roundhay Festival will act as a wonderful showcase for our city, raising its profile with national and international audiences while delivering an important boost to the local economy.” He further noted the council’s delight in working with AEG to bring major music acts back to the park, emphasizing its suitability as a concert setting.
Economic Boost and Sustainability Commitments
In collaboration with Leeds City Council, the festival is projected to deliver substantial benefits to the local area. This includes generating significant economic activity through the engagement of local suppliers and staff, and by boosting spending on accommodation, food, and entertainment. AEG Presents also underscored its commitment to sustainability, a core tenet across its events. Efforts will be made to power the festival responsibly, manage waste effectively, and partner with local food vendors, aiming to minimize environmental impact while maximizing community benefits.
Furthermore, a partnership with Roundhay School is planned, offering students opportunities to gain practical experience in the live music industry and event management, providing valuable insights into creative careers. The first headliner for the inaugural Roundhay Festival is expected to be announced soon, with organizers promising a lineup that will attract music fans from across the region and beyond. This major new music festival news signals an exciting future for Leeds as a significant destination for world-class musical talent.
