The Cardigans Return to London for First UK Show Since 2018 – Exclusive 2026 Gig Announced

The Cardigans are set to light up London this summer with their first UK show in eight years, thrilling longtime fans with an exclusive 2026 performance.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming for The Cardigans

If you grew up in the '90s or early 2000s, you know there’s something magical about The Cardigans. Their blend of Swedish pop and indie rock carved a sweet spot in music history, with hits that still linger in our playlists. So when news broke that The Cardigans are playing their first UK show since 2018, it felt like a nostalgic breeze sweeping through a summer day.

This exclusive gig is set for June 27, 2026, at London’s iconic Eventim Apollo—the very same venue where they wrapped up their 2018 UK tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of their celebrated album Gran Turismo. Mark your calendars, because this will be their only UK show in 2026.

Ticket Details: How to Catch the Show

For fans eager to snag tickets, here’s the scoop: a special pre-sale kicks off at 10 AM on Wednesday, January 28, exclusively for those who sign up in advance. Then, general sale tickets open at the same time on Friday, January 30. The show promises an early doors vibe with a 9 PM curfew, perfect for a focused, unforgettable night of music.

Revisiting The Cardigans’ Journey: From Emmerdale to Iconic Hits

Let’s rewind a bit. The Cardigans formed in 1992, debuting with their 1994 album Emmerdale. But it was the catchy charm of “Lovefool” in 1996 that catapulted them onto the global stage. That track didn’t just climb to Number Two on the UK charts—it also found a forever home in Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet, embedding itself in pop culture.

Their following hits—“My Favourite Game,” “Erase/Rewind,” and “Hanging Around”—continued to define their sound: melodic, bittersweet, and irresistibly singable. These anthems still echo in indie playlists and live shows worldwide.

For a quick musical flashback, check out their energetic performance of “My Favourite Game,” a timeless crowd-pleaser:

What Happened After Their 2005 Album?

After releasing their sixth studio album, Super Extra Gravity, in 2005, The Cardigans took a well-deserved hiatus. Fans wondered if their distinctive sound would ever return. During this period, lead singer Nina Persson explored new creative avenues, notably her solo project A Camp, and lent her vocals to tracks like the Manic Street Preachers’ “Your Love Alone Is Not Enough” from 2007’s Send Away the Tigers.

Fortunately, the band reunited in 2012 and has been delighting fans with sporadic tours across Europe and Japan. Their recent performances in Japan as of last October showed that the band's spark was still very much alive.

Hints at New Music and Future Projects

While the 2026 London show is already a buzz-worthy event, fans are also eager to hear if new music might be on the horizon. Back in 2014, Nina Persson hinted, “if we continue having this much fun [on tour], we would like to make another record, because we like to create new things.” That optimism keeps the door open for more Cardigans tunes.

In 2022, social media teased fans with a clip of the band playing what appeared to be new material—the closest glimpse we’ve had of fresh Cardigans sound since 2005. It’s a tantalizing tease, and one can’t help but hope for a full album to accompany their upcoming shows.

The Cardigans’ Enduring Legacy

Few bands have managed to blend catchy pop melodies with a cool indie edge like The Cardigans. Their music ranges from lighthearted to contemplative, often wrapped in silky vocals and memorable hooks. Their return to London in 2026 isn’t just another concert—it’s a celebration of enduring artistry and the timelessness of good music.

Will this London gig spark a new era for The Cardigans? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: fans are ready to sing along to every note.

FAQ

• When is The Cardigans’ next UK show?
  The band will perform on June 27, 2026, at the Eventim Apollo in London.
• Is this the only UK show The Cardigans will play in 2026?
  Yes, it’s confirmed as their exclusive UK performance for the year.
• How can fans purchase tickets?
  Pre-sale tickets start January 28, 2026, for those signed up in advance, with general sale beginning January 30.
• Has The Cardigans released new music recently?
  The last album was Super Extra Gravity in 2005, but a clip of possible new music surfaced on social media in 2022.
• What are some of The Cardigans’ biggest hits?
  “Lovefool,” “My Favourite Game,” “Erase/Rewind,” and “Hanging Around” are among their most popular tracks.

Thinking about how to celebrate your love for The Cardigans? Shop your favorite album cover posters and memorabilia at our store to keep that 90s pop spirit alive in your space. Explore our collection here.