Rebellion Festival Celebrates 30 Years of Punk Power in Blackpool
The Stranglers, Cock Sparrer, Stiff Little Fingers and Sham 69 set to headline as Rebellion returns for its landmark anniversary.
In the summer of 2026, Rebellion Festival hits two major milestones: 30 years of raising fists and flying the flag for punk rock, and the 50th anniversary of the genre itself. Returning to its home at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool from August 6th to 9th, the world’s biggest punk gathering promises one of its most stacked lineups to date.
From its roots as Holidays in the Sun back in 1996 — a tribute to punk’s 20th birthday — Rebellion has grown into a four-day institution. Thirty years on, it’s become more than a festival; it’s a cultural meeting ground for generations of punks, both seasoned and new.
“Goodness, 30 years! Over half our lives doing the thing we love most,” says organiser Jennie Russell-Smith, reflecting on the festival’s journey. “We just can’t wait to celebrate our anniversary with everyone this year.”
Legends and Lifers
For the 2026 edition, Rebellion is going all-in with headliners that helped define the movement: The Stranglers, Cock Sparrer, Stiff Little Fingers, and Sham 69 are all on board. But it doesn’t stop there.
Expect fierce sets from Die Toten Hosen, Slaughter and the Dogs, Cockney Rejects, UK Subs, Buzzcocks, The Skids, and Discharge, alongside cult favourites like Ferocious Dog, Penetration, GBH, and The Dickies. Many of these acts have become part of Rebellion’s extended family over the years, returning again and again to packed rooms and passionate crowds.
Punk’s Next Generation
Rebellion has always been about looking forward as well as back. Alongside the legends, 2026’s bill features rising voices and vital energy from bands like Millie Manders and the Shutup, Maid of Ace, and Split Dogs.
“Diversity and up-and-coming bands are always foremost in our thoughts,” Jennie explains. “Most of all we’re looking forward to seeing the people that support us year in year out – there’d be no Rebellion without them.”
Rebellion 2026 Highlights So Far
- The Stranglers
- Cock Sparrer
- Stiff Little Fingers
- Sham 69
- Die Toten Hosen
- UK Subs
- Cockney Rejects
- Buzzcocks
- The Skids
- Ferocious Dog
- Spear Of Destiny
- The Chameleons
- Millie Manders and the Shutup
- GBH
- Anti-Nowhere League
- Bad Cop Bad Cop
- Subhumans
- Penetration
- Ricky Warwick
- The Courettes
- Maid of Ace
- Split Dogs
- Ruts DC
- The Dickies
- The Kids
- Scream
- Bow Wow Wow
- Riskee and the Ridicule
- The Godfathers
- Adolescents
- Au Pairs
…and many more still to be announced.
Rebellion Festival remains an all-ages, family-friendly event, with free entry for under-12s when accompanied by an adult. Discounted tickets are on sale now at www.rebellionfestivals.com.
