Simple Things Festival 2026

Simple Things returns to Bristol in 2026 for its twelfth edition, bringing together boundary-pushing music and contemporary culture for another city-wide celebration of discovery.

On Saturday 7 November, the multi-venue festival once again takes over some of Bristol’s most iconic spaces, uniting the city for one unforgettable day and night across Bristol Beacon, Strange Brew, Rough Trade, The Island and new venue Shredenhams.

For the first time, Simple Things features guest curators, with Squid, Shabaka, Jeremy Deller and Cobrah each bringing their own perspective through their unique selection of artists. From MUCHAS PROBLEMAS, COUCOU CHLOE, DJ Latex and Only Fire in Cobrah’s club-focused curation, to Anton Pearson, Sofie Birch, Comfort, 13 Year Cicada and Minor Conflict selected by Squid. Shabaka brings Joy Guidry, Sarathy Korwar and Arsenal Mikebe, while Deller’s selection includes The Grubby Mitts, Mermaid Chunky, Circle Dance and The Listening Project presents: Acid Brass.

Alongside the curations, the full lineup brings together an eclectic mix of artists including The Avalanches, Panda Bear & Sonic Boom, Olof Dreijer, Moor Mother, Cloud Nothings, Alewya, Hannah Diamond, Big Brave, Gold Panda, Mykki Blanco, PVA, Nathan Fake and caroline, alongside Bristol artists and emerging acts from further afield.