Article by Lorna Leahy

Download Festival 2026 is already shaping up to be a lively weekend at Donnington Park, and we haven’t even had the full lineup yet! Fans are gearing up for another year of loud guitars, busy campsites and that familiar feeling of returning to a place that always feels like a second home. With three major headliners and a mix of expected and unexpected names across the bill there is plenty to look forward to.

Limp Bizkit are stepping into their first headline slot after appearing on the Apex stage last year. Many people felt their supporting set before Avenged Sevenfold proved they were ready for something bigger. Now they are getting the full spotlight and it seems well earned. Their energy last year was one of the weekend’s highlights and it will be interesting to see how they take on the main stage with a full headline production.

Guns N Roses are also returning and they remain one of the most recognisable names to ever appear at Download. Their sets are usually packed with favourites that have been part of rock fans’ lives for years. It is easy to imagine the crowd singing along from start to finish. Their presence gives the weekend a strong sense of continuity and long time fans will know exactly what kind of atmosphere to expect.

Linkin Park continue their new chapter after returning last year following a seven year break. The loss of Chester Bennington left a lasting impact on the band and the wider community. With Emily Armstrong now taking on lead vocals the group is finding its footing again. Many people are excited to hear classic songs performed live once more while others are discovering the band through their newer material. Their set is likely to attract one of the biggest crowds of the weekend.

A particularly talked about booking this year is Scooter who will be appearing on the Avalanche stage on the Friday. After the unexpected success of Vengaboys at District X last year the festival has clearly decided to lean into the idea of adding something different to the lineup. Scooter now have a main arena slot and a lot of people are planning to be there purely out of curiosity and fun. With Electric Callboy and Pendulum also playing that day the Avalanche area is set for a high energy run of sets that blend electronic and rock influences. It should make Friday one of the more varied and entertaining days of the festival.