One of Cardiff’s most-loved music festivals has revealed the first names heading to the city this autumn, as Sŵn Festival 2026 unveils its opening wave of artists.
ACTS ANNOUNCED TODAY INCLUDE:
CERYS HAFANA , IFAN, CASI, PYS MELYN, WRKHOUSE, ASIDHARA, TOKOMOLOLO, CHWAER FAWR, SHINOBII + MORE
Returning from 15th-17th October, Sŵn will once again take over venues across Cardiff for three packed days of live music, showcasing some of the most exciting emerging artists from Wales, the UK and beyond.
Now entering its 19th year, the festival remains a key part of the city’s music calendar and forms part of the wider Cardiff Music City Festival, alongside Llais Festival and the Welsh Music Prize.
Founded by Huw Stephens in 2007 and organised by the team behind Clwb Ifor Bach since 2018, Sŵn has built a reputation for helping music fans discover their next favourite artist long before they hit the mainstream.
This year’s first announcement includes a strong Welsh presence, with acclaimed composer and multi-instrumentalist Cerys Hafana, bilingual alt-pop outfit WRKHOUSE, psychedelic favourites Pys Melyn, singer-songwriter Casi, beatmaker Tokomololo, alternative acts Chwaer Fawr, SHLUG and Asidhara, plus North Wales artist SHINOBii all confirmed.
The line-up also features a host of exciting international and UK artists including Working Men’s Club, The Orielles, Lauren Auder, Honeyglaze, HMLTD, Lucia & The Best Boys, Personal Trainer, Cardinals, Modern Woman and many more.
In total, more than 150 artists are expected to perform across 10 stages and nine venues throughout the city.
Venues confirmed for 2026 include:
- Tramshed
- Clwb Ifor Bach
- St John’s Church
- Jacobs Basement
- Fuel
- The Canopi
- Tiny Rebel
- Little O’Neill’s
- Porter’s
Adam Williams, Head of Music for Sŵn Festival, said: “We’re delighted to unveil the first wave of artists for Sŵn 2026. This year the festival returns with three full days of new music across Cardiff, with over 150 artists performing across 10 amazing stages. We’re proud to promote new music and give a platform to the incredible artists we work with throughout the year.”
The festival continues its commitment to accessibility, with payment plans available alongside concession tickets for young people, students and Blue Light card holders. Volunteer opportunities and the popular Apply To Play scheme will also return for 2026.
With more artists still to be announced, Sŵn Festival is already shaping up to be another huge celebration of new music in Cardiff.
Tickets are on sale now, with further line-up announcements expected in the coming months.
