Marking their 20th anniversary, Slam Dunk Festival is back in Hatfield on 23rd May and in Leeds on 24th May 2026. With another stacked line-up including two heavy stages with no-clashes, it’s a line-up where everyone is going to be able to find something they enjoy.
Not sure who to check out on the day? Here are five bands we’d recommend fitting into your schedule for the day.
unpeople
Main Stage West – 12:35 to 13:10
If you haven’t heard about the live music goodness which is an unpeople show where have you been? Making waves since the release of their debut self-titled EP in 2024, they’ve already graced festivals stages both in the UK and across Europe and for good reason, they’re a phenomenal live force to be reckoned with. We reckon this will be one of those ‘I was there’ sets at Slam Dunk 2026, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Cancer Bats
Main Stage East Right – 13:30 to 14:05
On surprisingly early at the festival this year are Cancer Bats, don’t let this slot pass you by. With their eighth studio album Give Me Dirt set for release in August, hopefully some new material will be slotted into their discography spanning setlist. Looking for some high energy, chaotic punk-rock energy? This is the band you need to start your day.
Boston Manor
Monster Energy Stage Right – 16:00 to 16:40
Boston Manor have already played Slam Dunk numerous times before meaning their set is guaranteed to pull a big crowd on the day. It’s also set to be a chance for one of the best debut albums of all time (in our opinion at least), Be Nothing. to celebrate its ten year anniversary. See you there?
Taking Back Sunday
Main Stage West – 18:05 to 19:05
Taking Back Sunday will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of their album Louder Now during the weekend. Expect to hear the album in full with My Blue Heaven and MakeDamnSure bound to bring some late in the day singalongs. Keep an eye out for Lazzara’s infamous mic swinging antics too.
Deaf Havana
Scott’s Key Club Stage – 20:05 to 20:55
Another band celebrating an album anniversary at the weekend is Deaf Havana. No strangers to Bring The Noise, the duo will be showcasing the 15th anniversary of Fools and Worthless Liars. With the big choruses, reflective lyrics and James Veck Gilodi’s vocals which have only become stronger after these years. We cannot wait to hear tracks which soundtracked some of our favourite years gone by.
If you want to continue your night after the music ends, there will be after parties at The Forum in Hatfield, taking over Merrion Street in Leeds and across Camden.
Check out the line-up below!
Find out more about Slam Dunk 2026 here.
Written By: Nicola Craig
