Camp Bestival is back from 30 July to 2 August 2026, and the newly announced lineup shows why it remains one of the UK’s most loved family festivals. Presented by Debenhams, the event combines big name music with creative activities, outdoor adventures and entertainment designed for children and parents alike.
Music fans can expect a strong lineup across the weekend. Fatboy Slim returns on Sunday with his first ever Fatboy Slim & Friends All Day Castle Stage takeover, joined by special guests including hip hop legends De La Soul. Saturday night will see Bastille headline after a set from Example, while Friday features pop powerhouse Self Esteem alongside the legendary Billy Ocean.
Elsewhere on the bill are Black Grape, Fabio and Grooverider, DJ Fat Tony, Alison Limerick, Josh Wink and pop rock favourites Toploader, along with rising artists including The Guest List, Brooke Coombe and Ellur.
True to its reputation as the ultimate family festi holiday, the festival also welcomes a host of child friendly performers. Dick and Dom will bring their energetic Bungalow Rave, while younger children can enjoy appearances from Mr Tumble, Blippi, Mister Maker and the popular CBeebies Bedtime Story tent.
The music continues across the site with DJs including Hospital Records, Chris Hawkins’ Indie Disco, The Beatles Dub Club and electronic duo Leftfield. Tribute acts will also feature, including Hariana Live performing Ariana Grande hits and Black Sabbath tribute act Sabotage.
Beyond the stages, Camp Bestival offers an enormous range of activities included in the ticket price. Families can enjoy circus shows, immersive theatre, comedy, author talks, sports, arts and crafts and food masterclasses, as well as live podcasts including The Scummy Mummies and Sara Cox and Clare Hamilton’s The Teen Commandments.
The festival’s 2026 theme is At The Seaside, bringing a nostalgic seaside feel to the four day camping experience.
There are also several new additions this year. The Allotment, created with gardener and educator August Beth, will feature greenhouses and The Vegetable Museum where families can learn about unusual vegetables from around the world. Beekeeping workshops, heritage craft sessions and bread making classes at The Earth’s Crust Bread School will also give families a chance to learn new skills together.
Other highlights include Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre workshops, a Royal Society Summer Science pop up exhibition, Taskmaster inspired family challenges, DIY workshops and a brand new trampoline park. Families can also join daily Cajun and salsa dance classes or take part in a fun family ceilidh.
Festival co curator Josie da Bank says the aim is to help families reconnect through creativity and shared experiences. “Whatever your age, there’s so much to do and learn this year,” she says. “Spend the day learning to make bread, watch circus, do yoga, dance, eat food from all over the world and get creative with arts and crafts.”
Returning favourites include Navigation Town, Silly Science Shows, Thingumajig Theatre circus performances, the Slomo Wellbeing area, Bongo’s Bingo, the Sports Park and Wild Tribe adventure zone. Little Town will once again offer a dedicated play space for children under five.
With children under five able to attend free for a limited time, Camp Bestival continues to offer a rare chance for families to enjoy a full festival experience together. Combining big music, hands on creativity and plenty of space for children to explore, it remains one of the UK’s most family friendly summer events.