A major new music event is set to bring a slice of American culture to the British countryside next summer. The inaugural State Fayre festival will take over Hylands Park in Chelmsford, Essex, from June 26 to 28, 2026, promising a vibrant mix of top-tier music, authentic food, and classic fairground fun.
A Star-Studded Musical Line-Up
The festival's first wave of acts features an impressive roster of international stars and beloved UK artists. Neil Young and The Chrome Hearts are confirmed as headliners, fresh from their own UK tour announcements. They will be joined by American rock giants Kings of Leon, who will headline the opening night, and folk-rock favourites The Lumineers, who are scheduled to close the event on the Sunday.
The musical offering spans rock, country, and folk, with a diverse undercard that includes The Black Crowes, Elvis Costello and The Imposters with Charlie Sexton, and Counting Crows. UK music fans will be delighted to see The Coral and KT Tunstall on the bill, alongside other talents such as Sierra Ferrell, Dylan Gossett, and Nina Nesbitt. Organisers have confirmed that more acts will be announced in the coming months.
More Than Just Music: The Full Festival Experience
State Fayre aims to be a complete cultural immersion, transporting the vibe of a classic US state fair to Essex. The camping festival will feature three main stages for live performances. Beyond the music, attendees can look forward to a celebration of food and drink, including craft beers, whiskey, and live cooking demonstrations.
A traditional fairground with rides will provide entertainment, and a range of food traders will cater to all diets, including dedicated vegetarian and vegan options. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, boutique camping will be available.
How To Get Your State Fayre 2026 Tickets
The wait for tickets will soon be over. The general sale for the debut State Fayre festival is set to begin at 9am GMT on Thursday, November 28. Tickets will be available for purchase through the festival's official website. With a line-up of this calibre, high demand is anticipated, so fans are advised to be ready when sales go live to secure their spot for this unique new event on the UK festival calendar.
