Brb, just bulk buying suncream…
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE VIA ALBUM COVER
As the sun peaks tentatively around the corner, we’re already in summer mode. Pimms by the pool, playing rounders in the park, watching the sun set after 5 pm, and most importantly: getting ready for festivals.
If there’s one thing Brits do best, it’s know how to do a festival right. This summer is set to be jam-packed with LGBTQIA artists from around the world coming to some of the UK’s most iconic stomping grounds. Whether you’re more into techno or belting out ballads, here’s our guide to enjoying a very queer festival season.
LIDO Festival
Where: Victoria Park
When: 6-15 June
Charli xcx
Have your brat summer in style at Charli xcx’s very own party! The iconic Apple singer is bringing her own curated line-up to Victoria Park for one day only. Get ready to dance the night away to one of the most beloved LGBTQIA allies in music.
070 Shake
American rapper and singer 070 Shake is ready to shake the park up (pun intended) with this electrifying set. We’re ready to sing along to some sapphic hits.
The Japanese House
The queerness doesn’t stop there folks! The Japanese House will also be playing at LIDO Festival this summer. Amber Bain has openly spoken about being queer and has been providing us with the tunes to get over our heartbreaks since 2012.
Wasia Project
If you’re a fan of Heartstopper and you love beautiful music, you need to watch Wasia Project at LIDO Festival. The music duo, composed of siblings Will Gao and Olivia Hardy, saw viral stardom with the release of their track Ur So Pretty.
Glastonbury
Where: Worthy Farm
When: 25-29 June
Doechii
Doechii’s rapid success has turned us all into devoted fans. The rapper and bi-con has been serving up iconic looks and incredible performances. And now she’s gracing Glastonbury with her presence. Another major achievement to cross off her list this year.
Lucy Dacus
Sapphic fans will be thrilled to see Lucy Dacus, of boygenius fame, bring her “hot masc” energy to Glastonbury. This term, which she used in a TikTok casting call for her music video, perfectly captures the vibe we’re hoping for after the success of Best Guess.
Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile, a music legend and cherished queer icon, is finally making her Glastonbury debut. We’re still buzzing from the news of the Elton John collaborative album and now we’re ready to be captivated by her famous hits.
BST Hyde Park
Where: Hyde Park
When: 27 June – 13 July
The Last Dinner Party
We’ve been obsessed with this band ever since their tracks Sinner and Nothing Matters entered the charts. Get ready to rock out with this queer band in the sunshine at BST Hyde Park.
Girl In Red
Nothing gets queerer than Girl In Red. Standing as the universal sapphic sign to indicate that you like women, Girl In Red’s discography has been speaking to sapphics since 2017.
Clairo
We’d all like to feel like we’re sexy to somebody, and that’s exactly why Clairo is still one of our most streamed artists. The American singer-songwriter will be bringing her best hits to one of the UK’s most beloved stages this summer.
Beabadoobee
Filipino-British singer-songwriter Beabadoobee has been a firm fixture on the UK festival scene for a while now. With tracks like Glue Song and She Plays Bass, this is certainly a star you’ll want to watch this year.
Boardmasters
Where: Newquay, Cornwall
When: 6 – 10 August
Wet Leg
Do you want to scream along to songs like Wet Dream this summer? We thought so. Head down to Cornwall to watch this iconic band perform some of their greatest hits by the beach.
Beth McCarthy
We’re obsessed with this bi-con! If you haven’t seen Beth McCarthy on your TikTok For You Page, where have you been? Get ready to headbang and scream along to this incredible performer.
Orla Gartland
Irish singer, songwriter and musician Orla Gartland is here to bring us some beloved hits this summer. Having given us tracks to enjoy since 2009, Orla has continually been a voice that the LGBTQIA community has connected with.
Reading & Leeds
Where: Reading and Leeds
When: 21 – 24 August
Chappell Roan
This summer we could all do with a Femininomenon. And what better way to achieve that than by going to see the superstar Chappell Roan herself on stage? Sing along to the star’s megahits in person. Make sure to bring your best pink cowboy hat!
Lola Young
If you’re too messy and too clean at the same time, Lola Young is the singer for you. The star has been going viral online for her relatable songs, powerful voice and cool aesthetic. Definitely one to watch!
Becky Hill
So you want some dance music? Don’t worry, queer icon Becky Hill has you covered. Her tracks have pretty much defined the British summer charts for the last few years, so get your dancing shoes on.
All Points East
Where: Victoria Park
When: 16 – 24 August
Shygirl
DJ rapper, songwriter and overall icon Shygirl is ready to heat up the decks at this year’s All Points East. Get ready to sizzle away in the sun to these bangers.
Doechii
You can never get too much of Doechii! This bi-con is bookending the UK festival scene with yet another major performance. Get your face tape ready!
Raye
With music that speaks to fans across the entire LGBTQIA community, superstar Raye is ready to belt out her hit tracks across Victoria Park. Bring some tissues, you might need them.
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