Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Today Y Not Festival has announced a major expansion to its 2026 edition with the introduction of two brand new music spaces, Dubtendo and Sub Culture, marking a significant evolution in the festival’s programming. Taking place from 30th July to 2nd August 2026 at Pikehall in the Peak District, Y Not continues to build on its reputation as one of the UK’s most distinctive independent festivals, balancing its indie roots with an increasingly diverse musical offering.
Dubtendo will bring a unique, high energy live experience to Y Not, delivering a bold fusion of video game culture and UK bass music. The UK based music and performance collective has built a reputation on reworking iconic gaming soundtracks into drum & bass, grime and jungle, turning instantly recognisable melodies into full-scale rave moments. Far from a traditional DJ set, their performances combine immersive visuals, cosplay and fast-paced mixing to create a multi-sensory show where retro gaming worlds meet underground club culture. From Mario Kart mayhem to pixel-inspired drops, Dubtendo taps into shared nostalgia while introducing audiences to forward-thinking bass music. With growing momentum across the UK festival circuit, their debut at Y Not is set to be one of the weekend’s standout late-night moments.
Also new for 2026 is Sub Culture, a custom-built underground rave space created exclusively for Y Not. Rooted in UK soundsystem heritage and inspired by the folklore and mythology of the Peak District, the venue will deliver a fully immersive late-night experience. Set beneath the trees and powered by one of the UK’s finest soundsystems, Sub Culture combines heavy basslines with pagan-inspired visuals, fire, smoke and raw rave energy, creating a dedicated environment for jungle, drum & bass, dubstep and UK garage. Designed as a space where atmosphere and sound collide, it brings a darker, more elemental edge to the festival’s after-hours offering.
Sub Culture’s line-up highlights include legendary free party crew Smokescreen Soundsystem, the UK’s original breakbeat and hip hop crew Freestylers, Jungle Cakes vs Uncommon Records, a back to back soundclash led by Ed Solo and Deekline, alongside Kleu, Resist, Speaker Louis, Grimsey, G-Class, FJD, Dope Ammo, DJ Bish, and Crossy.
The introduction of Sub Culture and Dubtendo marks a significant step in Y Not Festival’s ongoing evolution, reinforcing its commitment to musical diversity, creative programming and community-led experiences, while expanding beyond its indie foundations without losing the grassroots energy that defines the event.
Alongside these additions, Y Not Festival’s late night programme continues to expand across multiple spaces with activity scheduled until 2AM. The Quarry offers an eclectic mix of genres and rising talent, alongside its signature Silent Disco experience. Curated by Scruff of the Neck, The Giant Squid delivers a more alternative edge, blending rock, punk and metal with an anarchic, late-night atmosphere. Meanwhile, Flamingo Jack’s brings a fresh twist with a cabaret club experience featuring karaoke, comedy, games and non-stop party vibes. Elsewhere, Club Malibu keeps the party going with 80s feel good anthems, while the festival local The Hog & Barrel offers a lively, down-to-earth spot for late-night drinks, and The Pit, tucked behind the pub, offers a no-frills gig room where loud bands, low ceilings and a raw, sweat-soaked atmosphere collide.
Following a landmark 2025 edition, Y Not 2026 sold out as early as February, cementing its place as one of the UK’s most in-demand summer festivals, with the 2026 edition set to be its most dynamic and expansive yet.
