Set for May 23rd at Hatfield Park and May 24th at Temple Newsam, Leeds the 20th installment of Slam Dunk Festival unveiled their first wave of artists last month with the clear intention of making the important milestone especially memorable. 

Earning top billing, pop-punk vets Good Charlotte confirmed a UK exclusive in 2026 at Slam Dunk, marking the band's first appearance in region in some seven years. Additionally, ska-punk legends Sublime are se for their very first ever performance in the region. Emo staples Taking Back Sunday are also highly featured, performing a 20th anniversary set of Louder Now.

What seemed noticeably missing from the intial announcement was Slam Dunk's heavier side. While favorites like Bury Tomorrow, Cancer Bats and breakout sensation PRESIDENT were included, the fest's harder, heavier element was evidently being saved up for a much bigger play. 

FOr the 20th edition of Slam Dunk, organizers have devoted two stages entirely to the heavier side of the festival. Announced as, "Two heavy stages. Side by side. Back to back bands. No clashes," the line-up within the line-up features some massive names including a headlining set from metallic hardcore juggernaut, Knocked Loose. Additionally, Slam Dunk will welcome Sheffield's own, Malevolence for a set that guarantees fireworks. 

The heavy stages at Slam Dunk will also feature sets from UK standouts including Heriot, Guilt Trip and heavy music luminaries like Static Dress and emerging sensations like Pest Control. The latest announcement also ropes in some of heavy music's best in hardcore heroes Comeback Kid, progressives in Angel Du$t and metalcore hardcore hybrid Dying Wish. 

See the compete festival line up below including the dedicated heavy stages that will exist side-by-side with no overlap within the festival footprint. Tickets for Slam Dunk 2026 are currnetly on slae and can be found - HERE