Sugababes and Boy George light up Henley Festival 2026

The festival, which started on Wednesday July 8 and running until July 12, saw Boy George and Culture Club open, bringing their Grammy Award-winning hits to Henley-on-Thames.

Culture Club, which shot to international stardom in the 1980s, has sold more than 150 million records worldwide.

The Sugababes, who had recently made a comeback with their original line-up, are due to perform on Thursday (July 10).

The group, formed in 1998, was known for its six Number One singles and multiple multi-platinum albums. 

Jo Whiley, a staple of British music, is also performing on Thursday.

Known for her deep connection to the 90s music scene, Jo’s 90s Anthems show is sure to deliver a nostalgic trip down memory lane with hits from Oasis, Blur, and The Prodigy.

Saturday will see Blur’s Alex James take to the stage with Britpop Classical, a concert that combines 90s anthems with the power of an orchestra.

Rounding out the festival on Sunday are the Bootleg Beatles, who will take attendees on a journey through the 1960s with their tribute to the iconic band.

The festival also offers a range of dining options, from fine dining at the Terrace Restaurant to gourmet street food.

The Riverside Restaurant offers a new fine-dining experience.

Henley Festival, the UK’s only black-tie festival, had been held on the banks of the River Thames since 1982.

It was known for its world-class music programme, comedy, art galleries, and sculpture installations.

The festival’s charitable programme, RISE, champions the next generation of creatives, providing paid opportunities to learn, perform, and gain real industry experience.