Following a successful return in 2025 after an unexpected postponement derailed the fest in 2024, Takedown Festival is set to hold court at Portsmouth Guildhall on Friday 3rd April and Saturday 4th April 2026. With a line-up last year that included standouts like URNE, Acres, and Dreamstate in addition to headlining sets from Elvana and the Kris Barras band, organizers intended to outdo themselves with the announcement for 2026 and have landed arguably one of their biggest sensations yet.
Massive rock music enigma President is set to make their festival headlining debut for Takedown Festival 2026 - indicating the kind of trajectory the band is on and the kind of demand they have inciting in their short tenure. Opposite the ascending position of President, Takedown has enlisted veterans of the stage with Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons headlining night one with a special Motorhead set honoring the life and lasting legacy of Lemmy.
Kai and Sarah Harris of Takedown Festival gave a statement regarding the 2026 announcement, "This year’s event taps into a powerful moment in metal culture. With younger fans rediscovering the roots of heavy music—especially following the passing of icons like Ozzy Osbourne—we’re honoured to have Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons headline Friday 3rd April with a full Motörhead set. It’s a chance to celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire across generations.”
They continued, “On Saturday 4th April, we’re handing the reins to President, one of the most talked-about new acts in UK heavy music. Their April ‘Campaign Trail’ tour sold out instantly, and their debut EP King of Terrors has struck a chord with fans through its cinematic intensity. Their headline set will be a statement, and we’re excited to see them take the Takedown main stage in full force.”
The tandem frames the importance of showcasing the future while honoring heavy music's rich history. “We’re excited to be able to showcase the evolution of heavy music from (to quote Lemmy) Motorhead’s rock n roll all the way through to cutting edge contemporary alternative metal”
Tickets and information for Takedown Festival 2026 can be found - HERE
