Rock ‘n’ Roll Circus wins best programming at Access All Areas awards
Rock N Roll Circus has been awarded Best Programming at this year’s Access All Areas Awards, cementing its reputation as one of the UK’s most innovative and fast-rising independent festivals.
The award recognises the festival’s distinctive blend of world-class music and immersive circus performance, as well as its bold approach to curating line-ups that appeal to both core music fans and families seeking a unique live experience.
Previous editions in Sheffield and Norwich have featured major artists including Queens of the Stone Age, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Self Esteem, McFly, Courteeners, Olly Murs and dozens more - alongside aerialists, acrobats, fire performers and interactive entertainment that transforms the traditional festival model.
Festival Director Ali O’Reilly said: “We’re absolutely honoured to receive the Best Programming award. Rock N Roll Circus was born from the idea of doing things differently - creating an event where incredible live music and world-class circus performance come together in a way that feels genuinely immersive.
"This recognition means the world to us. We were up against giants like The O2 and Co-Op Live and we’re so thrilled. It’s a testament to every artist, performer, crew member and, most importantly, to the local communities who have been behind us since day one. They believe in what we’re building.”
The win comes at a pivotal moment for Rock N Roll Circus, ahead of its largest and most ambitious year to date. In 2026, the festival will once again take place in both Sheffield and Norwich, with momentum building across both cities, following a successful launch in South Yorkshire in 2022.
In Sheffield, the 2026 August Bank Holiday weekend will see headliners Richard Ashcroft and The Streets perform under the festival’s iconic Big Top at Don Valley Bowl, with more major names still to be announced.
Meanwhile, Norwich - also featuring The Streets, Madness as well as indie band The Kooks - will welcome the Circus back to Earlham Park following a hugely successful debut, with the first announcements already generating significant demand.
Across both locations, Rock N Roll Circus continues to position itself as one of the UK’s leading independent festivals - a rare event that successfully spans generations, bringing devoted music lovers, families and first-time festivalgoers together in a shared space built around creativity, spectacle and discovery.
Ali added: “To be recognised by our industry peers is a huge milestone, but it also fuels our ambition. Rock N Roll Circus has grown rapidly in a short space of time, and 2026 marks a new chapter. Sheffield and Norwich are both incredibly special to us, and we’re committed to delivering unforgettable experiences for both cities next year. Winning Best Programming gives us even more confidence to push boundaries and create something extraordinary.”
As the festival expands its footprint, audience reach and artistic ambition, Rock N Roll Circus continues to redefine what a contemporary UK music event can be - blending cultural impact with commercial resilience and a clear vision for sustainable long-term growth.
Further announcements for both 2026 editions will be released in the coming months.