Thursday ticket holders are in for an amazing start to the weekend with a headline from indie legends Kaiser Chiefs. Who, fittingly, will be celebrating 20 years since their Mercury Prize-nominated debut album ‘Employment’, which the band are set to play in full. Expect a high-energy, nostalgia-laced set featuring anthems including “I Predict A Riot” and “Everyday I Love You Less and Less’ – it is bound to be a sentimental show for both the band and Kendal Calling itself.
Friday’s headliners, Courteeners, are staples of the northern indie scene, rising out of Manchester in the mid-2000s. With a discography full of sing-along staples like ‘Not Nineteen Forever’ , their set is bound to deliver indie rock energy which will be incredible in the Kendal Calling atmosphere.
However, Kendal Calling isn’t just about indie. Saturday night’s headliner is legendary DJ and producer Fatboy Slim. A staple of UK dance music who will bring a set packed with familiar favourites like ‘Praise You’ and ‘Right Here, Right Now.’ Known for his playful style and infectious energy, he knows how to please a crowd and will be an exciting watch.
Closing the weekend with a bang are The Prodigy. Known for their explosive blend of electronic and punk, they’ve been playing festival stages since the ’90s. Their set promises intensity, chaos, and an incredible finale to the weekend. Known best for tracks ‘Breathe’ and ‘Firestarter’, Prodigy’s legacy as pioneers of their scene promises anyone watching an unforgettable show.
Beyond its headliners, Kendal Calling showcases some of the UK’s most exciting up and coming artists in their 2025 Lineup.
The Last Dinner Party blend alt-rock with baroque theatrics, earning spots on nearly every major UK festival lineup this summer. Having played a sold-out UK tour and a BRIT Award for Best New Artist, as well as opened for Florence + The Machine, Hozier and Lana Del Rey. The Last Dinner Party are bringing their flair with tracks like ‘Nothing Matters’ and ‘Caeser On A TV Screen’ to the mainstage on Sunday.
Nieve Ella combines indie pop with raw vulnerable lyricism and is a must see for fans of artists like Maisie Peters and Holly Humberstone. With previous support slots for big indie names such as Inhaler and Blossoms under her belt, she's clearly on the rise and is one to watch.
English Teacher are a Leeds-based post-punk quartet who explore identity and politics with songs like ‘The World’s Biggest Paving Slab’ and ‘Nearly Daffodils’. Their spoken-sung style and heavy instrumentals make them stand out from other artists on both the Kendal Calling lineup and the UK music scene.
Alongside more emerging names such as Luvcat, Chloe Slater, Daydreamers and Soft Launch, anyone looking to discover new artists will find Kendal Calling an ideal destination, offering a plethora of rising artists to explore.
While the lineup alone houses some incredible names, Kendal Calling goes beyond the music. The immersive Lost Eden art installation offers an escape from the main stages, while comedy, drag, and theatrical performances mean there will always be something to see.
Saturday brings the iconic Kendal Calling parade – a highlight for many veterans of the festival. With puppetry, costumes, and music, it's the perfect chance to dress up and embrace the festivals’ vibrant atmosphere.
Kendal Calling 2025 is highly anticipated, shaping up to be its most unforgettable year yet - whether you’re there to scream an indie anthem, discover the future major names of UK music, or explore the theatre and art, there is something for everyone.
Talia Burnton
Image: Kendal Calling Official Lineup Poster