Download Festival 2026 Kicks Off Amid Rain Forecast, Headliners Include Limp Bizkit and Guns N’ Roses
The Download Festival 2026 began on June 10 at Donington Park in Leicestershire, with organizers confirming Limp Bizkit, Guns N’ Roses, and Linkin Park as headliners for the event, according to a statement from the festival. The lineup also features Bad Omens, Cypress Hill, and BABYMETAL, while secret sets and tributes, including a Nicolas Cage-led Rage Against the Machine performance, are expected to draw attendees. The BBC Weather service predicts light rain throughout the five-day event, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 23°C.
Weather Forecast: Rain Expected Across All Five Days
The BBC Weather forecast, updated on June 10, indicates thundery showers on the opening day, with temperatures between 9°C and 11°C. Rain is likely on June 11, with temperatures reaching 16°C, while June 12 may see lighter showers before sun returns on June 13. The final day, June 14, will feature partial sunshine with a slight chance of drizzle. Festivalgoers are advised to prepare for wet conditions, as Donington Park has historically experienced heavy rainfall, including a “mudbath” in 2024.
Headliners and Supporting Acts Announced
Organizers revealed Limp Bizkit, Guns N’ Roses, and Linkin Park as the festival’s top acts, marking their first UK appearances of the year. Additional performers include Trivium, Halestorm, and Architects, alongside the District X stage lineup featuring Electric Six and The All-American Rejects. A “bluegrass tribute” to Sleep Token, called TokenGrass, and a Rage Against the Machine tribute led by a Nicolas Cage impersonator, Nic Cage Against The Machine, will also perform.
Festival Organizers Emphasize Emerging Talent
Andy Copping, festival director, highlighted the event’s role in supporting new artists during a 2024 interview with NME. “We’ve developed stages like the Dogtooth and Avalanche to give bands opportunities to grow,” Copping said. “It’s about sending a message: ‘Come and play. We believe in you.’” The 2026 edition continues this focus, with emerging acts featured across multiple stages.
How to Access the Full Lineup and Schedules
Attendees can download the official Download Festival app (available on Apple and Android) for real-time stage schedules. A full lineup is also accessible via the festival’s website. Organizers urge fans to check updates regularly, as secret sets and last-minute changes may occur during the event.