Living It Up at Chilfest in 2026

We’re set to go up another level next year with an epic retro line-up, bringing an unforgettable summer party to the Chiltern Hills.
Headlining for us in 2026 will be jazz-funk sensations Level 42, who lit up the charts back in the 80s with classic hits such as The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up), Lessons In Love, Something About You and Running in the Family. With band members including originals Mark King, Mike Lindup and Nathan King, Level 42 were a huge part of the 80s music landscape, notching up 20 Top 40 hits and six Top 10s.
Taking place from July 3-4, Chilfest boasts a Saturday filled with top acts spanning the 80s and 90s, whilst the Friday night offers a great mix of top tribute acts from across four decades.
Starting the party on the Saturday will be True 80s legend, Tony Hadley, always a festival favourite. Tony will perform those Gold-en hits of Spandau Ballet including Through The Barricades, Only When You Leave and Chant No 1. To cut a long story short, you’re always guaranteed a fantastic set from this class act.
Also on our bill are Kid Creole and The Coconuts who are sure to bring the audience right back to the 80s with their unique brand of New York swagger and calypso glamour. Hits like Stool Pigeon, I’m a Wonderful Thing, Baby, and Annie, I’m Not Your Daddy will no doubt get the crowd conga-ing in the field.
Continuing the New York vibe are 90s hip-hop jazz trio Fun Lovin’ Criminals. The band burst onto the scene in 1996 with their global smash Scooby Snacks, a hit song that included samples from Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction.
British R&B girl group Eternal make their Chilfest debut, bringing their soulful hits including No 1 hit, I Wanna Be The Only One, Stay, and Don’t You Love Me. Sisters Easther and Vernie Bennett remain in the band, that originally also included Kelle Bryan and Louise Nurding (more latterly Redknapp).
Another Chilfest favourite is 90s rock band Toploader, whose mega hit Dancing In The Moonlight continues to be a global phenomenon for the band, since its release in 2000. The crowd will also be treated to other hits such as Achille’s Heel from their debut album Onka’s Big Moka, which sold over one million copies.
Completing the line-up will be Liverpudlian soul and pop band The Christians, fronted by charismatic lead singer Garry Christian who will be powering through a string of their classic hits, from Forgotten Town to Ideal World and Harvest For The World.
Our festival founder Steve Butcher said: ”We’re really excited about next year’s Chilfest as we’ve secured some great acts, with something for everyone. Tickets are already flying which shows how well the line-up has landed with festival-goers.
“This year’s festival was unforgettable but next year promises to be just as memorable with an equally impressive and eclectic mix of acts. The perfect soundtrack for a memorable summer party.”
Kicking off the weekend on Friday 3 July is a host of talented tribute bands, including Dan Budd as Robbie Williams who is sure to Entertain You, and Ultimate Coldplay who is bound to Fix You up a great night. Festival-goers can also enjoy music from The Killaz UK, Pulp’d, Fleetwood Mac – Our Own Way and Amy Winehouse tribute, Tania Alboni.
Don’t miss out! Secure your tickets for this unmissable hit-packed weekend of live music from 80s, 90s and 00s legends.