American Express presents Roundhay Festival made its debut at Roundhay Park in Leeds from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July 2026, delivering a star-studded line-up that celebrated the park’s musical heritage. Headliners included Pitbull, Lewis Capaldi, and the Hallé Orchestra, alongside Jason Derulo, Tinie Tempah, Lil Jon, and more. The festival, produced by AEG Presents, returned to the iconic venue with support from Leeds City Council, blending global superstars with local flair.
Friday 3 July: Pitbull’s Party Start
The opening day saw Miami’s Pitbull turn Roundhay Park into a full-blown fiesta. Thousands donned bald caps, black ties, and white shirts for his high-energy set, featuring hits like “Don’t Stop The Party” and “Timber.” Pitbull’s chemistry with Lil Jon, who joined him for three tracks, added a personal touch, with Pitbull thanking Jon for believing in him 25 years ago. The crowd danced through Spanish-English tracks, while Pitbull celebrated the “universal language of music,” even joking, “I wanna say thank you to all the baldies, I see you! When you put on those bald caps, you know you’re about to have the TIME. OF. YOUR. LIVES!” Jason Derulo and Tinie Tempah kept the energy high, with Derulo’s “Wiggle” and Tempah’s “Pass Out” sparking sing-alongs, while Los Tucanes De Tijuana brought a vibrant Mexican twist to the UK.
Saturday 4 July: Lewis Capaldi’s Homecoming Show
Lewis Capaldi returned to Leeds with a career-defining performance, filling the amphitheater with fans waving phone lights for “Something In The Heavens.” The Scottish star, fresh off a touring break for health reasons, delivered a mix of emotional ballads and rock-influenced anthems like “Grace” and “Pointless,” complete with a playful guitar solo. Opening with Kerr Mercer and Jacob Alon, the day balanced indie folk and pop, while Conan Gray charmed with his breezy tunes and Jessie Murph’s dramatic shift from “House of the Rising Sun” to “Touch Me Like A Gangster.” Nieve Ella’s indie rock set and Maya Lane’s acoustic melodies rounded out the East Stage’s offerings.
Sunday 5 July: All Things Orchestral
The final day focused on cinematic grandeur with the Hallé Orchestra, performing themes from Star Wars and 2001: A Space Odyssey under conductor Stephen Bell. Hosted by Myleene Klass MBE, the event blended education and spectacle, with Klass playfully pointing out orchestra sections. Alfie Boe joined for emotional renditions of “Bring Him Home” and “Fantasia on Greensleeves,” while DJ Yoda closed the festival with a 90s-themed mashup of pop culture clips and club beats.
The festival’s success hinged on local engagement, from regional food vendors to AEG’s commitment to boosting the Leeds economy. Roundhay Park’s natural amphitheater design once again proved perfect for large-scale events, echoing its history with The Rolling Stones, Madonna, and U2. With its mix of global acts and community focus, Roundhay Festival set a bold foundation for future editions.
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