Ratboys, Mandy, Indiana and More Fuel Massive Lineup Expansion for Dot To Dot Festival 2026

Get ready for an electrifying surge of emerging talent as Ratboys, Mandy, Indiana, and over 30 fresh acts join Dot To Dot Festival 2026's stellar lineup.

A Festival Bursting with Fresh Vibes

There’s something magical about the energy of a multi-venue festival that champions rising stars, and Dot To Dot Festival is the ultimate playground for discovering tomorrow’s indie heroes. This year, the festival’s second wave of announcements brings an exciting roster, with Ratboys and Mandy, Indiana among the most buzzworthy newcomers ready to light up stages in Bristol and Nottingham on May 23 and 24.

Dot To Dot has long been a springboard for artists carving out their own spaces in the indie and alternative scenes, and the 2026 lineup promises a fresh, diverse soundscape to dive into. Whether you’ve already snagged your early bird tickets or are eyeing the latest release, the festival's vibrancy guarantees a weekend packed with thrilling new music.

Building on Headliners and Early Buzz

Back in December, the festival teased us with a killer headliner lineup featuring Lambrini Girls, Fcukers, and NewDad. Alongside them, stalwarts like Adult DVD, Alice Costelloe, and Clothesline From Hell had been locked in, setting the stage for a truly eclectic celebration.

Now, the excitement doubles with more than 30 new additions announced, including standout acts like Mandy, Indiana, Ratboys, Mae Hill, and Lucia & The Best Boys. For those still deciding on tickets, the latest batch is priced at £35 plus booking fees — a small price for entry into one of the UK's most eagerly anticipated showcases.

Spotlight on Mandy, Indiana and Ratboys

Mandy, Indiana has been pulsating at the heart of Manchester’s DIY scene, and their recent splash makes this announcement especially thrilling. Just this February, the band dropped their new single “Sicko!,” featuring the acclaimed rapper Billy Woods — an intense, layered track that’s equal parts raw and cathartic.

Catch the official video for “Sicko!” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLhd_TRMgM0

Their latest album, Urgh, released just days after the single, came out on the respected New York label Sacred Bones and has already been hailed as one of 2026’s most anticipated records. The album bursts with explosive energy, from Valentine Caulfield’s chilling vocal howls to the band’s boundary-pushing sound, making it a must-listen for anyone craving something bold and adventurous.

“Mandy, Indiana’s second album – and first for respected New York label Sacred Bones – isn’t for the faint-hearted. In the first 10 minutes alone, it clatters and clangs, erupts with vocalist Valentine Caulfield’s chilling howls, and takes things to the edge.”

— Music critic

Ratboys, too, bring their own brand of indie rock charm, known for thoughtful lyrics and warm melodies that have steadily built them a dedicated following. Adding them to Dot To Dot’s lineup feels like a nod to fans who cherish authentic, heart-driven music.

A Rich Tapestry of New Talent

But it’s not just the headliners stealing the spotlight. Dot To Dot 2026’s new wave introduces a fascinating array of artists ready to make their mark:

• Afternoon Bike Ride
• Alfreda
• Any Young Mechanic
• Ceebo
• Chinese American Bear
• Curiosity Shop
• Dave Lofts
• East Exchange
• Eliza McLamb
• Flynn Gurry
• Goodbye

And that’s just the beginning. Additional acts like Just For Fun, KatzPascale, Little Grandad, Marlon Funaki, Melanie Baker, Middleman, Mitch Santiago, MORN, Mother Soki, Office Dog, Opal Mag, Piss, quickly, quickly, Ribbon Skirt, Sunday Mourners, Swordes, The Cheap Thrills, The Tullamarines, Tooth, Ugly Ozo, and Yes and Maybe round out this vibrant musical mosaic.

Insights from Dot To Dot’s Booker

“We’re delighted to announce new names for 2026! The first wave was incredibly welcomed, and we are proud to showcase even more of the best new names in live music across Bristol and Nottingham this May. This second wave includes some familiar names such as Mandy, Indiana and Ratboys – and we can’t wait for festival-goers to discover new names across the weekend.”

— Conrad Rogan, Dot To Dot booker

Touring and Beyond: Mandy, Indiana’s Momentum

Fresh off their latest release, Mandy, Indiana are not just stopping at Dot To Dot. They have a packed touring schedule lined up for the coming months, hitting major UK cities including London, Leeds, Glasgow, and Liverpool before heading across Europe in April. Their live shows are known to be powerful, immersive experiences that bring the energy of their recordings to life with fierce intensity.

Planning to catch their set? Keep an eye on ticket availability and tour dates, as this is a band on the rise.

The Legacy of Dot To Dot Festival

With a history stretching over two decades, Dot To Dot has a proven track record of launching careers. Big names like Dua Lipa and Sam Fender first caught public attention while performing at this very festival. It continues to be a beacon where the next generation of artists can connect with audiences hungry for fresh sounds and unfiltered creativity.

Last year’s event featured headliners including The Horrors, Fat Dog, and Sprints, supported by acts like Big Special, Honeyglaze, Kate Bollinger, Låpsley, and Nimino — a testament to the festival's commitment to diverse and quality lineups.

Get Ready for Dot To Dot 2026

If you’re passionate about the indie and alternative music scene, Dot To Dot Festival 2026 is shaping up to be an unmissable event packed with discovery, energy, and unforgettable performances. From the raw power of Mandy, Indiana to the sing-along warmth of Ratboys, the mix of artists promises something special for every music lover.

FAQ

• What cities will Dot To Dot Festival 2026 take place in?
  The festival will be held in Bristol on May 23 and Nottingham on May 24.
• Who are some of the headline acts for the festival?
  Lambrini Girls, Fcukers, and NewDad are among the headline performers.
• Are tickets still available for Dot To Dot Festival 2026?
  Early bird and second release tickets have sold out, but the latest tickets are available for £35 plus booking fees.
• What recent releases has Mandy, Indiana put out?
  Mandy, Indiana released their single “Sicko!” featuring Billy Woods, and their second studio album Urgh in early 2026.
• Has Dot To Dot Festival helped launch any famous artists?
  Yes, artists like Dua Lipa and Sam Fender gained early exposure at Dot To Dot during their emerging years.

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