Article Contributed by Gratefulweb
Published on November 11, 2025
Northlands Music & Arts Festival will return to Swanzey, NH June 19–21, 2026, offering both a bold, multi-genre lineup and an elevated on-site experience. The fifth year of this fan-favorite independent festival continues to earn praise for its thoughtfully curated lineup, welcoming vibes, chill crowd, and smooth execution—hallmarks that have made Northlands a must-do summer tradition for Northeast music lovers.
“Independent festivals are such an important part of the live music ecosystem, but they are a dying breed nationally,” says co-founder Seth McNally. “We’re throwing the biggest party of the year, in a thoughtful way that feels like you’re coming home. Year after year loyal fans come back and support live music. Let’s keep the dream alive.”
Headlining 2026 is juggernaut Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, bringing arena-level dynamics and free-wheeling Grateful Dead reinvention; genre-bending Dirty Heads will deliver sunny, feel-good vibes and infectious grooves fusing reggae, rock, and hip hop; and jamtronica pioneers The Disco Biscuits will ignite the crowd with kinetic, peak-chasing sets.
From there, the bill dives deep: Little Stranger will make their inaugural Northlands appearance, armed with their witty, alt hip-hop swagger and reggae undertones. Dogs in a Pile’s adventurous fireworks will complement the joyous chaos of Andy Frasco & The U.N., and local legend Mihali, alongside his full band, will shred again for Northlanders—most likely with a rotating cast of guests that bring the heat. Lotus’ kaleidoscopic livetronica grooves will complement the high-octane funk from the all-women powerhouse Super Sonic Shorties, and cosmic instrumental voyages with Circles Around the Sun.
A highly anticipated and rare appearance by legendary collective The Slip is sure to be a fan favorite and contribute to fest lore. Co-founder Mike Chadinha says, “The Slip… if you know, you know. I’ll see you on the hill for this set for sure.”
Progressive bluegrass slingers Yonder Mountain String Band make a triumphant return, MoonTricks makes their first appearance with high-energy experimental electro-roots beats, and Ghost-Note is sure to bring the snark and the funk.
Rounding out the lineup are Jennifer Hartswick Band, Dizgo, Hayley Jane Band, Night Zero, Sqwerv, and Annie in the Water. Don’t miss NH’s own standout Caylin Costello Band, proudly representing the Granite State’s thriving local music scene.
Returning in 2025 as an artist-at-large is powerhouse vocalist Kanika Moore, who will also deliver a set with her new band Kanika and the Brown Eyed Bois, featuring members of The Psycodelics.
Set in the picturesque hills of New Hampshire, Northlands is known for Instagram-worthy sunsets, top-notch music curation, and high vibes. Fans of all ages can explore an eclectic vendor village of local artisans, distinctive food and beverage vendors to please all the foodies, daytime wellness offerings, live muralists, and art installations—everything you need to settle in and soak up a full weekend of music and art. The site’s intuitive layout, short walks, and welcoming staff make it easy to bounce between stages, catch friends, and find your next favorite band.
“Northlands has all the amenities of a big festival, but its boutique size and smaller capacity invite connection and create instant community,” says producer Jen Meyerhardt.
Northlands is expanding camping options this year, creating the brand-new Sunset Ridge car camping area, even closer to the main stages for quick access and easy returns between sets. The Campground Stage remains the beating heart of Northlands after dark, showcasing some of the best and brightest artists from the Northeast and beyond. Expect surprise collaborations, sunrise moments, and brand-new discoveries. The 2026 Campground Stage lineup will be announced at a later date.
Ticket sales commence on Tuesday, November 11 at 12 PM ET via NorthlandsLive.com. Options include General Admission, VIP, GA Camping, RV options, Family Camping, VIP Camping, and Glamping. Full pricing, payment plans, camping maps, and policies will be posted at on-sale.
Northlands Music & Arts Festival is an independent, three-day celebration of live music, creativity, and community in Swanzey, NH. Set amid the natural beauty of New England, Northlands pairs multi-genre lineups with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—complete with art installations, wellness offerings, and a curated vendor village of local artisans and eclectic food and beverage vendors.
