The UK’s biggest celebration of Caribbean and African music is officially back bigger than ever.
City Splash has announced the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition, and the lineup proves once again why this South London festival has become a global cultural landmark. Returning to Brockwell Park next May Bank Holiday, City Splash continues its mission to uplift and amplify the sounds, flavours, and communities that shaped generations across the UK.
If you love reggae, dancehall, lovers rock, soca, Afro-fusion, dub or UK Black music, this is the event you cannot miss.
Headliner: Beres Hammond — A Historic First for City Splash
This year marks a monumental moment as Beres Hammond takes the City Splash main stage for his first-ever festival headline performance.
A legend whose voice defined lovers rock and roots reggae, Beres has spent more than four decades shaping Caribbean culture with songs like Rock Away, Tempted to Touch, and What One Dance Can Do.
After an eight-year break from UK stages, he returns exclusively for City Splash — a moment destined to unite families, generations, and fans across the diaspora.
Gyptian, Jada Kingdom & More Bring Unbeatable Energy
The 2026 lineup features an impressive blend of icons, hitmakers, and rising stars:
- Gyptian – the voice behind global classics Hold You & Beautiful Lady.
- Jada Kingdom – one of dancehall’s brightest young stars, making her City Splash debut.
- Queen Ifrica – powerful reggae voice known for conscious messages.
- The Congos – roots legends whose album Heart of the Congos remains a masterpiece.
- Lutan Fyah – Spanish Town’s lyrical firebrand.
- Juls – globally respected producer and Afro-fusion tastemaker.
- Lisa Maffia, Romeo & Dandaman (So Solid Crew) – representing UK Black music history.
- Jeleel! – unmatched energy and boundary-pushing performance style.
- Cristale – Brixton’s own rising star returning home.
- Wohdee – one of the fastest-growing UK talents.
This is a lineup curated not just for entertainment — but for cultural elevation.
Soundsystem Culture: The Heart of City Splash
City Splash 2026 doubles down on what makes it special: SOUND SYSTEM POWER.
The first wave features some of the most influential names in Caribbean and UK music history:
- Channel One
- Heartless Crew
- Rampage Sound
- Saxon Sound
- Dubwise Jamaica
- King Original ft. Footsie x Sir Spyro x Jah Model x Ras D
- Seani B
- Izzy Bossy
- Pioneer, Supa D, Coldsteps & Terminal 4
- Ras Kwame
- Robbo Ranx
- Loyal Squad
- Jada Pink
- Sisters In Dub
- Vybz-SR …and many more.
These are the selectors, MCs and soundsystems who have shaped the UK’s nightlife, carnival culture, and underground identity. Their presence guarantees an unforgettable day of bass, energy and community.
More Than a Festival — A Celebration of Culture
City Splash has grown into a movement:
- Celebrating Caribbean and African heritage
- Uplifting Black British culture
- Supporting homegrown talent
- Championing food, fashion, dance, community & unity
Its sixth edition promises the biggest gathering yet. Expect food from top Caribbean vendors, cultural markets, immersive installations, and the best vibes in London.
