Multi-platinum star Bailey Zimmerman has been announced as the first headliner for The Long Road Festival 2026, marking his return to the UK after more than two years. The record-breaking artist will top the bill on Saturday night at the UK’s largest outdoor country, Americana and roots festival.
The Long Road returns to Stanford Hall in Leicestershire over the August Bank Holiday weekend from August 27-30, 2026. This marks the festival’s seventh year following its biggest edition yet in 2025. Zimmerman’s appearance will be his first UK performance since his sold-out headline tour across the UK and Europe in 2024.
Early bird tickets are now on sale for the four-day event, with Saturday day tickets also available. Family tickets have been launched, offering savings of over £80 for two adults and up to three children.
Festival co-founder Baylen Leonard said: “Bailey Zimmerman is one of the most exciting live artists to emerge recently and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to The Long Road. With his trademark showmanship and immense singalong hits, his mainstage set is going to be one to remember. Bailey’s energy and TLR’s status as a must attend event for UK music fans is the perfect match!”
The Long Road has built its reputation as a tastemaker event, showcasing artists at every stage of their careers from powerhouse veterans to rising stars. The festival features stages inspired by the places that shape country music, including front porches, dive bars, and the Interstate, culminating in the big-break main stage. Friday and Sunday headliners are yet to be announced, with more acts to be revealed across the festival’s six stages.
Both weekend camping and day tickets are currently on sale.
Beyond the music, The Long Road offers an immersive country lifestyle experience. Festival-goers can enjoy US-inspired street food and American BBQ, craft beers, and the Lucky Dice Classic Car & Bike show. Activities include line dancing, campfires, vintage funfair rides, a dog show and pooch parade, family activities, Country-oke, and Kentucky bourbon masterclasses.
The festival takes place at the scenic grounds of Stanford Hall, with stages designed to reflect the authentic country music experience from intimate Honky-tonk bars to expansive main stage performances. After a record-breaking super early bird ticket release, organizers have introduced the new family ticket option to make the event more accessible.