25 December 2025 - Firefly Festivals Featured in the Bournemouth Echo!

We are thrilled to share that Sham Rocks 2026 has been officially featured in the Bournemouth Echo! The article highlights our upcoming return to Fawcetts Field in New Milton from May 15th to 17th, noting that the event is set to be "bigger and better than ever." From the introduction of the new Firefly Stage to our incredible lineup of over 40 acts, it’s wonderful to see the local community and press getting behind what promises to be our most ambitious festival yet.

Sham Rocks 2026: Why This Is the Must-Attend Event of the Summer

The buzz is already building for Sham Rocks 2026, and after the incredible success of last year, we aren’t slowing down. This year’s festival is all about expansion and variety. We’ve added the brand-new Firefly Stage and a massive "Festival Friday" launch party hosted by DJ Rick on The Beat to kick things off. Whether you’re a lifelong festival-goer or looking for a perfect family weekend, the Bournemouth Echo confirms that we are pulling out all the stops to ensure there is something for everyone.

One of the biggest reasons to join us is the sheer caliber of talent hitting the stages. We’ve secured Manchester-based The Voice semi-finalist Jordan Phillips, alongside a massive roster of over 40 acts. As Festival Director Emer Druce told the Echo: “My partners The GiG and Concept Event Solutions and I are delighted to be able to expand the festival and we were so inundated after the success of 2025, that we really were spoilt for choice.”

Variety is at the heart of Sham Rocks. The 2026 lineup features world-class tributes to icons like The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Amy Winehouse, and Abba, alongside the "90's Unlimited" rave rewind and the country vibes of "Havana Blonde." We’ve curated this list to ensure that no matter your musical taste, you’ll find a beat to dance to. Every single performer has been hand-picked to bring maximum energy to New Milton.

Beyond the music, Sham Rocks is a true community celebration. We’ve put a massive focus on making this a destination for families, including the return of Snow Princess Parties for the little ones and an expanded selection of stalls, rides, and local food and drink vendors. Festival Manager Clive Leighton and Emer Druce have personally selected each act for their “popularity, musicality and enthusiasm,” ensuring a balanced programme that covers all bases.

We are also incredibly proud to use our platform for good. This year, we are once again supporting Oakhaven Hospice, ensuring that while our guests are having the time of their lives, we are also giving back to a vital local cause. It’s this blend of top-tier entertainment and community spirit that makes Sham Rocks stand out on the festival calendar.

Finally, we’re making it easier than ever to bring your friends along. For a limited time, we are running our "3-2-1 Christmas Countdown" deal, where you can grab a pair of weekend tickets for just £48. With new features like our "Spotlight Slot" for rising stars and three stages of non-stop entertainment, there has never been a better time to secure your spot at Fawcetts Field. We can't wait to see you there!

You can read the full feature on the Bournemouth Echo website here: Music festival Sham Rocks to return to New Milton in 2026