Northlands Music & Arts Festival unveils full 2026 lineup

SWANZEY — The Northlands Music & Arts Festival has finalized its musical roster for the upcoming fifth annual gathering, completing the multi-genre lineup. The independently-produced event is scheduled to return to the Cheshire Fairgrounds June 19-21, offering attendees alternative attendance structures through a single-day ticket option. As large corporate productions increasingly dominate the modern live music industry, Northlands has maintained its standing as a resilient, community-first standout. Organizers note the event has grown organically since its debut by focusing on artist-driven programming, local artisan vendors, and an intimate layout featuring short walks between stages. "As Northlands continues to evolve, our focus remains on creating a festival that feels intentional and intimate while delivering world-class music and production," said festival producer Jen Meyerhardt. The main stage performances span several genres across the three-day weekend. The festival is topped by headlining acts Joe Russo's Almost Dead, Dirty Heads, and The Disco Biscuits. The daily schedule includes sun-soaked grooves from Little Stranger, Ghost-Note, and Magoo on Friday, followed by Saturday sets featuring Mihali, Lotus, Dogs In A Pile, Circles Around The Sun, and the Hayley Jane Band. Sunday's lineup features the improvisational mastery of Andy Frasco & The U.N., The Slip, Yonder Mountain String Band, the Super Sonic Shorties, and the Jennifer Hartswick Band. Powerhouse vocalist Kanika Moore will also return to the fairgrounds as the festival's official Artist-at-Large throughout the entire weekend. In addition to the main daytime performances, the newly revealed Campground Stage serves as the late-night hub for the event. Designed to showcase rising talent and exploratory jam sessions, this stage runs well into the night to maintain the festival's community energy. The 2026 late-night lineup includes performances by Consider the Source, Creamery Station, Big Blitz, Jatoba, Solar Circuit, Fungkshui, Leon Trout, Space Bacon, and Natalie Brooke. The stage will also host unique electronic sets, including DJ Brownie (Marc Brownstein of The Disco Biscuits) and DJ Greenie (Mike Greenfield of Lotus). "One of our favorite things is putting the spotlight on rising stars," said festival co-founder Seth McNally. "Stoked to see the energetic vibe at this stage that reflects the energy of young artists." For more information, visit northlandslive.com.