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Bob Vylan top this year’s Shindig lineup
Two years since it announced its retirement, the festival on Bristol’s outskirts that achieved a remarkable bounce back has announced a dynamic lineup for 2026 topped by the infamous Bob Vylan.
The 12th edition of Shindig sees the homegrown, proudly independent festival back for the second year at its new home of Charlton Park, the site of WOMAD from 2007 until it announced its departure to a new location this year.
The duo is joined on the lineup by indie-ravers Fat Dog, funk/disco stalwarts WAR and Jurassic Five hip hop legend Chali 2Na.
Bristol acts also feature, including longstanding live drum’n’bass act Dr Meaker, high energy ska favourites Mad Apple Circus, Chris Arnold’s Beatles Dub Club, Laid Blak and a DJ set from Ishmael Ensemble.
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Bob Vylan’s comments about the IDF, in protest at the genocide taking place in Palestine, onstage at Glastonbury festival last year caused controversy including apologies from the BBC and Emily Eavis, a police investigation and cancellation of many of the band’s planned gigs.
But the police investigation was closed on the grounds the chant did “not meet the criminal threshold… for any person to be prosecuted.”
The band has long been associated with political and social justice causes and, as well as Shindig, can be seen headlining the independent ethics-forward Shambala this year where they were recognised as one of the festival’s favourite live shows in 2024.
Shindig offers outdoor sculptures, talks and poetry, kids’ activities, crafts and a wellbeing area as well as music – photo: Nathan Roach
“We’re excited to welcome Bob Vylan,” said Shindig co-director Simon Clarke. “Our programming has consistently reflected a diverse spectrum of voices, genres, and perspectives. While we recognise that their work can be provocative, we believe that challenging art has an important place in culture and conversation.
“As we’re an independent festival, we can book artists without pressure from corporates or compromise artistic integrity. Our focus remains on ensuring the festival is a space for connection, joy and respect.”
As well as music, there will be talks including Led by Donkeys discussing their art and activism, walkabout performance including Rimski’s cycling piano and Handkerchief’s double bass on wheels, giant outdoor art installations, a samba procession, a vibrant kids’ programme, crafts and holistic wellbeing areas.
Find all information at www.shindigfestival.co.uk
Main image: Coal Poet Media
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