Legendary house music brand Love to be… is set to return to Harrogate on Saturday, 5th September 2026, for another major open-air celebration at The Stray. Following the success of previous years, the festival has announced an expanded vision for 2026, featuring three stages, enhanced production, and a phase one line-up that spans generations of house music culture.
Tickets for the event are on sale now via Skiddle, with organisers warning that demand is already high. Several ticket tiers have already sold out, though general entry and VIP options—including flexible payment plans—currently remain available.
The 2026 edition will take place across three distinct areas: The Stray Stage, The Music Factory, and a dedicated VIP stage. The event is designed to bring together global headliners, underground favourites, and live performers for a full day and night of music in one of North Yorkshire’s most striking parkland settings.
Leading the charge on the main Stray Stage is Defected Records’ leading lady Sam Divine. She is joined by soulful house royalty Julie McKnight, who will be performing live, and house music heavyweight David Penn. The stage will also host Mousse T, Trimtone, DJ Cash Only, Janika Tenn, and Keexx, delivering a mix of modern and classic house energy.
The Music Factory stage is set to pay tribute to the brand’s rich heritage. The lineup here features legends including Todd Terry, TV personality and DJ Gok Wan, and K-Klass performing live. Adding further depth to the roster are Grant Nelson, Paul Taylor, and Tom Wainwright, with support from Dale Castell, Aimee, Sinclair, and Bongo Dave.
For those looking for a more exclusive experience, the VIP stage will feature a ‘funkyLove’ takeover. This area offers a more intimate atmosphere with performances from Jetboot Jack, NRK featuring Nikki Belle (Live), and Love to be… founder Tony Walker. The VIP lineup is rounded out by Stuart Pilling, Scott Harris, Mr Jones, Marmajam, Bri Buckle, Joshua Brookes, EmiYuu, and live sax from Sarah Sax Player.
Beyond the music, The Stray—which offers 200 acres of open green space in the heart of Harrogate—will be transformed into a purpose-built festival site. Attendees can expect a food village, fairground rides, entertainers, and immersive audio-visual production. VIP ticket holders will also have access to a premium bar, upgraded facilities, and dedicated entry.
Love to be… originally began in Sheffield in 1994 and stands as one of the UK’s longest-running house music brands. Now moving into its fourth decade, the brand continues to maintain a global touring schedule and label activity while hosting major events like this annual return to Harrogate.
Organisers have confirmed that more headliners will be announced in the coming months to join the phase one line=up.
Image credits:
Charlie Mitchell
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