LUXE Serendipity magazine

Set against the beautiful banks of the River Thames, Henley Festival presented by Hemani returns for five magical nights of music, comedy, art and entertainment from 8–12 July 2026 in Henley-on-Thames.

The UK’s only black-tie music and arts festival is once again promising a truly unique summer experience, where festival-goers dress to impress and enjoy world-class performances across multiple stages, alongside visual arts, cabaret, fine dining and spectacular nightly fireworks.

Headlining the iconic Floating Stage in 2026 are a host of celebrated acts. Opening the festival on Wednesday are pop legends Boy George & Culture Club, whose global hits helped define 1980s pop culture. Thursday welcomes chart-topping girl group Sugababes, while Friday brings an evening of powerhouse entertainment from the ever-iconic Lulu, followed by ABBA tribute phenomenon Björn Again. Saturday sees Blur bassist Alex James present his acclaimed Britpop Classical show, blending the biggest anthems of the 1990s with the power of a full orchestra. The festival closes on Sunday with the much-loved Bootleg Beatles, taking audiences on a nostalgic journey through the music of the Swinging Sixties.

Comedy is also a major part of the programme, with performances across the week from big names including Alan Davies, Shappi Khorsandi, Russell Kane, Geoff Norcott, Suzi Ruffell and the flamboyant Julian Clary.

Elsewhere across the site, festival-goers can explore ten art galleries and a Sculpture Garden, discover emerging talent through the festival’s RISE programme, and enjoy live music ranging from jazz and swing to folk and soul in intimate venues such as the Spiegel Tent and Bedouin Tent.

Food and drink are also a key part of the Henley experience, with fine dining restaurants, gourmet street food and the new Riverside Feasting experience created by renowned pop-up chef Jimmy Garcia. Visitors can also book a Riverside Social VIP space as a base for the evening’s celebrations.

The festival concludes with Playdate @ Henley Festival on Sunday morning, transforming the site into a family-friendly wonderland packed with live entertainment, activities and performances for children.

With its blend of music, culture, style and riverside glamour, Henley Festival remains one of the UK’s most distinctive summer events.

For tickets and full line-up details visit henley-festival.co.uk.