Pop
Eurovision queen Lulu is set to headline at UK’s only black-tie festival this summer promising ‘one hell of a show’
Henley Festival, the UK’s only black-tie music event, returns to the banks of the River Thames this summer, with Eurovision icon Lulu set to headline the glittering line-up.
Eurovision queen Lulu “can’t wait” to perform at UK’s fanciest festival this summer, promising “one hell of a show with all the hits and a few surprises!”
Henley Festival, which takes place on the riverside in Henley-on-Thames over five evenings - from Wednesday 8 July to Sunday 12 July 2026 - prides itself on being the UK's only black-tie music and arts festival of its kind.
The rock ’n’ roll legend will take to the Floating Stage on Friday, followed by ABBA tribute act Björn Again, who will close the night.
Lulu joins a dazzling line-up of music royalty, including Boy George & Culture Club, Sugababes, Alex James’ Britpop Classical, and the world-famous Bootleg Beatles.
Lulu said: “I can’t wait to perform at Henley Festival in the summer and to give them one hell of a show with all the hits and a few surprises!”
Perfectly Splendid
The festival, presented by Hemani, was first held in 1982 and attracts over 30,000 people each year.
It’s a truly marvellous experience, anchored by a world-class music programme spanning pop, world, classical, folk, swing and jazz. Alongside the music are exceptional comedy performances, captivating art galleries and sculpture installations, roving entertainers, dancing, Michelin-starred cuisine, flowing champagne and dazzling fireworks.
The Scottish pop icon won the Eurovision Song Contest held in Madrid on March 29, 1969 with the song Boom Bang-a-Bang. Representing the United Kingdom, she tied for first place with France, Spain, and the Netherlands.
Over the decades, her remarkable career has included singing a James Bond theme and receiving an OBE for her services to music. More recently, Lulu released her candid memoir, completed her sold-out Champagne for Lulu! tour, joined Robbie Williams on his stadium tour, and shared the Glastonbury stage with Sir Rod Stewart.
Still going strong, Lulu is currently recording a new album.
The prestigious event has featured diverse world-class performers, ranging from Motown diva Diana Ross, pop legends Sir Elton John, Rick Astley and Tom Jones 90s garage pioneer Craig David and classical stars like Katherine Jenkins and the Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra.
You’re cordially invited to attend Berkshire’s most elegant event of the year.
A place for those who prefer violin string quartets to DJ sets - because festivals don’t have to mean muddy fields, bass drops, or a sea of sweaty bodies.
So, dust off your finest attire and leave the bucket hats at home. This one’s strictly black tie.
Tickets are available at:
By attending, you’ll also be supporting emerging talent through the Festival’s charitable programme, RISE.
