Forest Live 2026 Unveils Star-Studded Support Acts for woodland concerts at Westonbirt Arboretum
The highly anticipated Forest Live 2026 concert series has revealed its full roster of supporting artists, adding vibrant depth to an already stellar headline lineup. Returning to the enchanting Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire this June, the five-night festival promises a diverse sonic journey through pop, rock, dance, and reggae, all set amidst the unique atmosphere of a national collection of trees.
A Venue Steeped in Nature and History
Westonbirt Arboretum, managed by Forestry England, provides an unparalleled concert setting. Its ancient trees and manicured landscapes create a magical backdrop that has attracted over two million attendees to Forest Live events since the series began 25 years ago. This year’s edition is particularly special, as it forms a key part of Forestry England’s 25th-anniversary celebrations for the Forest Live programme. The organisation, which cares for more than 1,500 woods and forests across England, reinvests proceeds from concerts directly into vital conservation work and habitat management, including the planting of approximately 7.4 million trees in the last year alone.
Night-by-Night Line-Up Highlights
The support acts announced complement each headliner’s genre perfectly, ensuring each evening has a distinct musical character.
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Wednesday 24 June: The series kicks off with Fatboy Slim‘s energetic big beat. He will be preceded by two formidable DJs: Irish-born, Berlin-based selector Sally C, known for her genre-blending sets, and DJ Paulette, a legendary figure from the iconic Haçienda era.
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Thursday 25 June: Scottish pop-rock stalwarts Deacon Blue are joined by the melodic, guitar-driven Lightning Seeds, promising a night of anthemic, heartfelt pop.
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Friday 26 June: Reggae icons UB40 lead a triple-bill deeply rooted in the genre. They are supported by roots reggae vocalist Bitty McLean and the dynamic sound system collective Reggae Roast featuring MC Horseman.
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Saturday 27 June: Pop legend Rick Astley is supported by the rising indie-pop duo Deco and the prolific, feel-good band
