Abbeydale Live will return this month after an extremely successful debut last year.
From Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 April, Abbeydale Road will once again be taken over by an array of both celebrated and up-and-coming bands and DJs from Sheffield and its surroundings.
Abbeydale Traders Association launched the free festival last year as a one-day event, aiming to boost foot traffic and trade to one of Sheffield’s most vibrant streets. The event brought hundreds of visitors with many businesses saying it was one of their busiest days of the year.
In 2026, the event promises to be even bigger while remaining free to attend. Twenty of the road’s independent venues will take part, including local favourites The Broadfield, Abbeydale Ballroom and Cole’s Corner.
The programme will feature two-time Grammy-nominated vocalist Steve Edwards, Louis Louis Louis and Montuno, with the full list still to be announced. The programme reflects Sheffield’s diverse music scene, from jazz artists through to contemporary and alternative acts.
A notable addition for this year is the Sarah Nulty Music Foundation Stage, which will be based in the Abbeydale Ballroom car park and host local faves ranging from Steve Edwards to jazz-funk outfit Montuno.
The festival is family-friendly and will provide plenty of activities for all ages. Mount Pleasant Park will host a Kids Area showcasing student performances on its Youth Music Stage. The festival will once again partner with WaterBear Music College, with student performances throughout the weekend.
Another set you won’t want to miss is the Deadman Birthday Bash which will be held at Cole’s Corner, celebrating father and son DJing duo Alex and Alan Deadman with tunes ranging from global beats to jungle.
This key aim is to encourage visitors to wander the street and see what its fantastic independent businesses have to offer.
Nicole Jewitt, organiser of Abbeydale Live and Chair of the Abbeydale Independent Traders Association, said: “Abbeydale Live is about what happens when a street really comes together. It’s independent businesses, artists, students, families, everyone playing their part.
“You can start at one end of Abbeydale Road and walk all the way through, discovering music, food and new places as you go. It’s completely free, open to everyone, and it’s something we’re really proud to build together as a community.”
