STOCKTON CALLING has confirmed the full line-up for its hotly anticipated 15th edition, taking place on Easter Saturday, 4th April 2026 across seven venues in Stockton’s town centre. One of the North’s leading multi-venue urban festivals, Stockton Calling once again delivers a bold and exciting snapshot of the UK’s live music landscape.
The festival had already unveiled headline performances from indie heavyweights Hard-Fi, Irish noise merchants Gurriers, and rising London rock’n’roll three-piece The Molotovs – and today sees the addition of another major name, as Young Rebel Set are confirmed for a special homecoming appearance following their emotional and sold-out return to live performance last year.
The Teesside favourites will join a line-up featuring over 60 artists, including some of the UK’s most vital new voices alongside the North East’s most exciting emerging acts. Among them are Cruz, the four piece indie-alt rockers from South Yorkshire, Newcastle rising indie newcomers Leazes, whose star continues to climb following support from BBC Introducing; boundary-pushing North East songwriter and performer Cortney Dixon, known for her theatrical live shows and alt-pop flair; and London’s grunge rock revivaists, Villanelle, fronted by Liam Gallagher’s son, Gene.
Running from midday until late, Stockton Calling 2026 transforms the town into a one-day celebration of live music and discovery. This year’s festival will span seven independent venues, with fans able to explore stages at ARC, ARC-2, KU Stockton, Social Room, The Georgian Theatre, The Green Room and The Link.
Young Rebel Set’s return is a particularly meaningful addition to the line-up. Formed in Stockton in 2007, the band became cult favourites across the UK and Europe, releasing two critically-acclaimed albums and building a devoted fanbase. After a decade away – and the tragic passing of frontman Matthew Chipchase – the band made an emotional return in 2025, with new music, new members and a renewed sense of purpose. Their appearance at Stockton Calling 2026 marks a full-circle moment. The band are set to headline the KU Stockton stage once again.
In a joint statement, the band said: “We’ve had so many amazing nights in this town, and Stockton Calling has always meant something special having played it back in 2014. To be part of the line-up this year, alongside so many great artists, both nationally and locally, will be a real celebration. It’s been a big journey to get back here, and we’re buzzing to be part of something that showcases what this scene is all about.”
Chris Cobain, of festival partners Tees Music Alliance, said: “This year’s line-up is exactly what Stockton Calling is about – showcasing the best new talent from the North East alongside some more household names. To have Young Rebel Set on of Teesside’s favourtie bands back returning to our festival is something that mean’s a lot to us and the festival goers. And with an eclectic collection of artists like Cruz , Pit Pony, Pollyfromthedirt and Amelia Coburn also on the bill, it’s clear the next wave is just as exciting.”
Jimmy Beck of Ku Promotions added: “We’ve always said Stockton Calling is about championing what’s next – and this year we’ve got future headliners all over the line-up. It’s a brilliant mix of energy, experience and proper musicianship. Hard-Fi, Gurriers, The Molotovs, and now Young Rebel Set – it’s shaping up to be one of our strongest years yet.”
Tickets for Stockton Calling 2026 are on sale now, priced at £40 for the full day including all booking fees. A limited number of under-18 tickets are also available at £25, for music fans aged 14–17. As in previous years, anyone aged 14 or 15 must be accompanied by a responsible adult over 25.
The full line-up announcement reinforces Stockton Calling’s reputation as one of the most exciting grassroots festivals in the UK. With seven stages, over 60 acts, and thousands of fans descending on the town centre for a packed day of live music, it’s set to be an essential date in the Easter weekend calendar.
Buy your tickets now by clicking here Stockton Calling 2026 – Discover Your Next Favourite Band!