Margate Soul Wekender 2026

Every August, Margate is transformed into the thumping heart of the UK soul music scene as it hosts the Margate Soul Wekender. Celebrating its 25th year, the festival will take place from Friday, July 31st to Sunday, August 2nd.

It brings together large-scale live performances with DJ-led street parties, beachside events, and eclectic nightlife in one unique blend. The lineup has just been announced, boasting a great mix of DJs, international live acts, and some of the biggest names in British soul music.

This year’s announcement brings an exciting mix of soul legends and modern trailblazers to the coast, with Incognito, Odyssey, and Brit Funk Association bringing their signature grooves, while The Real Thing, Brass Construction, and Shaun Escoffery add timeless soul and funk energy to the weekend. Lovers’ rock icons Janet Kay and Carroll Thompson join the bill alongside rising talents such as Zoe Kapri and Children of Zeus, promising a programme that blends heritage, heart, and the future sound of British soul.

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Sunset Stage heads to the well-known Newgate Lower Promenade under the Lido sign, with Harold Melvin's Blue Notes and Heatwave as the headline acts. Alongside the music will be an extensive assortment of food and drink sourced locally, plus areas for community groups and activities focused on environment awareness.

In 2026, Margate Soul Festival will be implementing many of the same sustainable initiatives that were in place such as reusable cups and hybrid generators. To get to the festival in an eco-friendly way you can rent a bike from Margate's social enterprise, The Bike Shed. Additionally, there is a free "soul train" service operating at full speed throughout the event to facilitate getting ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌around.

Come one, come all, and enjoy a memorable weekend of music, community, and sustainability at the Margate Soul Weekender.