Manchester Psych Fest returns in September 2026, bringing its multi‑venue programme of psychedelic music and arts to the Oxford Road Corridor. The festival’s central hub remains at the O2 Apollo, with additional shows at the O2 Ritz, Gorilla, The Deaf Institute and YES Bar.
This year’s headliners include The Beta Band, marking their first major UK appearance since disbanding over two decades ago. The cult Scottish group amassed audiences with their blending of folk, electronic music and eccentricity into a sound which has influenced an array of alternative artists such as Coldplay and The 1975.
They’re joined by avant-pop innovators Stereolab, whose mix of experimental pop and hypnotic rhythms have established them as one of indie’s most distinct and creative bands. Emerging in the ’90s, both bands have cemented their reputations within the world of experimentalism and vision.
Also on the bill is Ty Segall, a regular force within modern psych rock. His recently released album, Chrome, adds a timely angle to his appearance, with new material likely to shape the set.
Local representation comes from Working Men’s Club, whose combination of post‑punk and club‑driven electronics has made them one of Manchester’s more compelling live acts. Californian outfit Allah‑Las bring a lighter, surf‑tinged take on psych, while Anna von Hausswolff offers a darker, atmospheric counterpoint with her organ‑driven, experimental compositions.
Beyond the music, Psych Fest features a full programme of installations, record fairs, talks and DJ sets. Circle Square will host pop‑up events and late‑running sets, while food vendors, visual art and independent traders round out a programme designed to encourage movement between venues.
Manchester Psych Fest, the UK’s leading psychedelic multi‑venue music and arts festival, will take place across various city‑centre venues on 5 September 2026. For more information visit manchesterpsychfest.com
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