Alanis Morissette Takes Over as Headliner for State Fayre Festival After Neil Young’s Tour Cancellation

Alanis Morissette steps in as headliner for State Fayre Festival 2026 after Neil Young cancels his UK and Europe tour.

Alanis Morissette in a captivating live performance.

From Neil to Alanis: A Headlining Shift at State Fayre

When news dropped that Neil Young was stepping back from his 2026 UK and European tour, fans collectively sighed. The legendary folk rock icon had been slated to headline the brand-new State Fayre Festival, a vibrant celebration of Americana, rock, and country music. But just like that, the torch passed to none other than Alanis Morissette, who will now take center stage on Saturday night, June 27, at Hylands Park in Chelmsford.

The inaugural State Fayre Festival, running June 26-28, promises a rich lineup including heavy hitters like Kings of Leon, Skunk Anansie, and The Lumineers. Morissette’s addition injects an electric burst of ’90s alt-rock nostalgia into a festival already brimming with star power.

Neil Young’s Sudden Tour Pause

Neil Young's cancellation came as a surprise, especially after his monumental 2025 performances. Just last year, he headlined Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage with the Chrome Hearts and closed BST Hyde Park 2025 in spectacular fashion. Fans had eagerly awaited his upcoming outdoor dates:

• June 17: Cornwall’s Eden Sessions
• June 19: Manchester’s Heaton Park
• June 27: Headline at State Fayre Festival
• June 29: Glasgow Summer Sessions at Bellahouston Park
• July 3: Blenheim Palace Festival, Oxford
• July 5: Blackweir Fields, Cardiff
• European tour dates following, concluding in Udine, Italy on July 26

But in a heartfelt statement on his official archives website, Young shared:

“I have decided to take a break and will not be touring Europe this time… I’m sorry to let you down, but this is not the time. I do love playing LIVE and being with you and the Chrome Hearts. LOVE Neil be well.”

Ticket holders will receive refunds, and organizers scrambled to find a fitting replacement worthy of the festival’s grandeur.

Introducing Alanis Morissette to State Fayre’s Spotlight

Stepping in with a powerful presence, Alanis Morissette will headline the Saturday night, bringing her iconic voice and timeless tracks to Chelmsford’s sprawling Hylands Park. Alongside her, Skunk Anansie has been added to the Saturday lineup, promising a night packed with unforgettable performances.

The festival’s official announcement tweet captured the excitement perfectly:

“We are delighted to announce that the incredible @Alanis will be headlining State Fayre on 27th June 2026 at Hylands Park 🎉 We also welcome @SkunkAnansie to our Saturday lineup on main stage alongside all of our amazing acts. Tickets are on sale now ☀”
— State Fayre (@StateFayre) February 10, 2026

An Americana Feast for Music and Food Lovers

State Fayre is not just about music; it’s a full-on celebration of Americana culture, blending rock, country, folk, and mouthwatering barbecue. The festival draws inspiration from the classic American state fairs—those long, warm summer nights filled with tailgate parties, good tunes, and great eats.

Adding to the vibe is The FUME Pit, a dedicated BBQ festival within the event featuring award-winning pitmasters and chefs from across the UK and beyond. Alongside three live music stages, attendees can enjoy food talks, whiskey tastings, craft beers, cocktail bars, and plenty of non-alcoholic drink options.

Here’s a teaser from the festival’s tweet announcing The FUME Pit:

“Introducing The FUME Pit at State Fayre 2026 🧑‍🍳 Feast on the best BBQ the world has to offer from award-winning pitmasters & chefs, and enjoy three stages of live music. 26-28th June at Hylands Park, Chelmsford 🎪 Tickets on sale next week.”
— State Fayre (@StateFayre) November 22, 2025

Full Lineup Highlights and Festival Vibes

The festival’s three-day lineup is a diverse buffet of musical flavors. Kings of Leon headline the first night, bringing their powerhouse alternative rock sound. Their latest album, Can We Please Have Fun, dropped last year to critical and fan acclaim, making them a perfect kickoff act.

The Lumineers, known for their blend of Americana and heartfelt storytelling, will close out the festival on the final night. Their new album, Automatic, released earlier this year, further cements their place as one of the most influential bands of their generation.

Other notable acts include:

• The Black Crowes
• Elvis Costello & The Imposters featuring Charlie Sexton
• Counting Crows
• Amble
• Kingfishr
• Dylan Gossett
• Sierra Ferrell
• Max McNown
• KT Tunstall
• The Coral

More names will be revealed as the festival date approaches, building anticipation for what’s set to become a landmark event in the UK music calendar.

Immersing in the Spirit of Americana

Festival organizers Anna-Sophie Mertens and Alex Simmonds shared their excitement about this new venture:

“We are thrilled to unveil a brand new camping festival that builds on the phenomenal UK growth in Americana, rock and country over the past few years. We’re so excited to present this music in an immersive outdoor setting complete with the authentic food, activities and big open skies of an American state fair.”

This immersive experience promises to transport attendees from Chelmsford to a lively, open-air celebration that feels like a slice of Americana right in the heart of England.

Have you ever thought about how a music festival can feel like a mini-vacation in itself? With the blend of legendary artists, emerging stars, and mouthwatering BBQ, State Fayre 2026 is shaping up to be just that kind of escape.

Will Alanis Morissette’s powerhouse performance fill the shoes left by Neil Young? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—this festival will be one for the books.

FAQ

• How can I get tickets for State Fayre Festival 2026?
  Tickets are available through the official State Fayre website and select ticket platforms. Early bird and general sales are ongoing.
• Will Neil Young perform at any other dates after canceling this tour?
  Neil Young has announced a break from touring Europe in 2026, so currently, no replacement dates are planned.
• What kind of food options will be available at State Fayre?
  The festival features The FUME Pit, with award-winning BBQ pitmasters, plus whiskey, craft beers, cocktail bars, and non-alcoholic options.
• Are there camping facilities at the festival?
  Yes, State Fayre is a camping festival designed to provide an immersive outdoor experience.
• Who are some of the must-see artists besides Alanis Morissette?
  Kings of Leon, The Lumineers, Skunk Anansie, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, and The Black Crowes are among the standout acts.

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