Whilst of course the live music across the Apex, Opus, Avalanche and Dogtooth stages sits as the primary pillar behind Download Festival, the event's substantial growth over the years has seen it truly develop in to an all-encompassing entertainment destination. In this part of the preview, we're shining a spotlight on some of the "other things" to help you fill personal schedule gaps, entertain your curiosities and keep you well fed and watered of course!
THE ARENA
Hellfire Stage
Brand new to Download in 2026, the Hellfire Stage (apparently introduced in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, although we're not sure we can see the link here entirely) will be positioned where you may be familiar with seeing the Avalanche Stage in recent years (which has itself moved round and closer to Apex). So what's the vibe here? Well, it's not a new stage for music, instead it will be hosting an assortment of food based entertainment. Think hotdog eating contests, chilli contests, cooking demos and more. Amongst those gracing the stage this year we've got MATBLAK, a highly acclaimed Maori chef famous for his live-fire cooking, Liana Davis of Turbowolf fame is bringing COOKING WITH LD, and THE FAT FOODIE looking to bring his entertaining style from Tiktok and Instagram on to the stage. That's just a snapshot of what's on offer here and a lot of those performing are pulling double duty in various slots across the weekend, so gives all a good chance to catch what we're sure will be a unique little corner at Download this year.
For the full list of performers and set times, head here - https://downloadfestival.co.uk/lineup/hellfire-stage/
BeatBox
BeatBox are a new kid on the block as far as alcoholic beverages are concerned and this year at Download they'll have their own curated little area too far off from the main Arena entrance. Aptly named the House of Punch area, a variety of DJ sets are set to occur, all hosted by Christian Stevenson of Dirty Sanchez and Kerrang! Radio fame. So even if you're not keen on the colourful fruity alcoholic drinks, we're sure the BeatBox team will be bringing it's own party in an already well populated part of the Arena.
Fourth Wing
Fans of Rebecca Yarros' novel, FOUTH WING, will be thrilled to see that there is a dedicated stand tucked in close to the Hellfire Stage where exclusive merch and more are promised. For those unaware, this novel is the first in a brand new series - titled the Empyrean Series - of adult fantasy romance books. It's popularity speaks for itself with accolades such as ranking #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list. As a franchise, this one could really blow up, so don't miss your chance to be part of it whilst still at an early stage.
DISTRICT X
The Doghouse
As ever, District X's "main stage" is set to provide a dazzling array of entertainment from straight up band performances, novelty DJ sets, more serious DJ sets, workout sessions and more. Keeping this to the stand-out attractions this year, you'll get the chance to see ELECTRIC SIX and BAT SABBATH (Cancer Bats donning their Black Sabbath alter-egos) on this stage across the weekend. As well as this, you'll also get to see FIVE (yep them, not a new band of the same name) and DICK & DOM doing DJ sets. Don't say we didn't warn you about the eclectic nature of The Doghouse - easily one of the most fondly talked about areas of the entire festival.
For the full list of performers and set times, head here - https://downloadfestival.co.uk/lineup/the-doghouse/
The Den
If you're after a bit of a chuckle, The Den is the place to be as it turns in to a Comedy Club across Wednesday and Thursday before reverting to more traditional DJ sets on the main days. Some of the bigger acts performing this year include MATT BRAGG, DINESH NATHAN and DAVE HILL. On the DJ side of things you'll be able to catch Liam Cormier of Cancer Bats fame and Sophie K alongside club night takeovers like Face Down.
For the full list of performers and set times, head here - https://downloadfestival.co.uk/lineup/the-den/
The Outpost
Or the cinema essentially. Fancy chilling out in front of a film for a bit? This is the place to go. This year The Outpost boasts the likes of BALLERINA, SNOWPIERCER, THE IRON CLAW, POWER RANGERS and much much more.
For the full list of films and times, head here - https://downloadfestival.co.uk/lineup/the-outpost/
Ace of Spades
Another hybrid stage in District X, one that brings you a mix of Podcasts and DJ sets depending on the time of day. You'll also be able to get yourself thrown in to the action with Live Band Karaoke. Podcasts set to do live records include SAPPENIN' PODCAST and BIG DREAM PODCAST among a handful more.
For the full list of performers and set times, head here - https://downloadfestival.co.uk/lineup/ace-of-spades/