Takedown Festival 2026 Expands Lineup with President, WARGASM, As It Is and More
Portsmouth Guildhall prepares to host another unmissable weekend of rock and metal.
Takedown Festival has unveiled the next wave of bands for its 2026 edition, including the hotly anticipated return of As It Is, the genre-warping chaos of WARGASM, and a landmark headline set from masked collective President—their first-ever festival headliner performance.
Returning to Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th April 2026, the festival continues its rapid ascent following a triumphant 2023 comeback. With the addition of more cutting-edge and classic acts, this year’s Takedown looks set to be one of its most explosive yet.
Saturday Sees a Modern Rock Meltdown
Saturday’s bill features the newly re-energised As It Is, whose resurgence in 2025 was embraced across the alternative scene. They’ll be joined by WARGASM, bringing their no-holds-barred fusion of punk, metal, and electronic fury to Portsmouth for what’s expected to be one of the weekend’s wildest sets.
Also confirmed for Saturday:
- Vower
- Saint Agnes
- Bex
- Profiler
- Tropic Gold
Friday Brings Raw Power and Legacy
Leading Friday’s charge are Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons, delivering a full Motörhead set in a tribute to the genre’s godfathers. As co-organiser Sarah Harris explains, it’s a moment of reverence:
“It’s a chance to celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire across generations.”
Joining Friday’s lineup are:
- Gnome
- Devere
- Gurt
- The Fear
President Take the Crown
Saturday’s headline slot belongs to President, the mysterious and cinematic masked force whose “Campaign Trail” tour sold out earlier this year. Their debut EP, King of Terrors, has made waves with its intense, genre-defying sound, and their Takedown appearance promises to be a defining moment in their rise.
“Their headline set will be a statement,” say organisers Kai and Sarah Harris. “We’re excited to see them take the Takedown main stage in full force.”
Takedown Festival 2026 takes place at Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th April. Tickets are available now via takedownfestival.com
