Red Rooster Festival

Get ready to kick off summer at the Red Rooster Festival 2026! Set among the ancient pine trees of Thetford Forest in Suffolk, this vibrant three-day gathering (28th–30th May) is a celebration of music, food, and community. Red Rooster brings together the soulful sounds of the American South — think blues, roots, rockabilly, country, and R&B — all in a friendly outdoor setting. Whether you’re a longtime festivalgoer or a first-timer, you’ll be swept away by the upbeat performances and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Each spring, thousands of music fans flock to the forest for a weekend of toe-tapping tunes and good times.

Our multiple stages come alive from day to night with incredible live music. Local and international artists fire up the crowd with bluesy guitar solos, foot-stomping country beats, funky soul grooves and the raw energy of rock & roll. Whether you crave a mellow acoustic session or a high-energy band performance, Red Rooster’s lineup has something for everyone. Crowds love to clap their hands and sing along as beloved tunes fill the air beneath the forest’s starlit sky. With music playing well into the evening, you might just discover a new favorite act at every turn.

The festival grounds are a haven for foodies, too. Feast on Southern-style barbecue ribs, pulled pork and juicy burgers fresh from the grill. Warm up with bowls of hearty gumbo, jambalaya and chilies made with authentic spices. Wash it all down with crisp craft beers, sweet iced tea, tangy lemonade or a bold cocktail – perhaps a bourbon or even a little moonshine if you dare! Local vendors also offer homemade pies, fluffy pancakes and other treats to keep you fuelled all weekend. With great food on every corner, you’ll leave fully satisfied as well as entertained.

It’s not just about concerts – there’s plenty to do offstage, too. A family-friendly kids’ zone offers crafts, games and storytelling, so the little ones will never be bored. When you need a break from dancing, relax in a hammock under the pines or gather around a crackling campfire to chat with friends. Stroll through artisan markets selling crafts, vinyl records and festival gear; discover pop-up music jams and impromptu workshops hidden among the trees. No matter what time of day, Red Rooster’s laid-back forest setting means there’s always a new surprise to enjoy. It’s a place where you can dance and play, or simply wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Camping is one of the festival’s best parts – and it’s included with your weekend ticket. Set up your tent on a shady meadow and wake up amid chirping birds and fresh forest air. Camping on-site means you’re always just steps away from the music, with no need to drive on crowded roads each day. If sleeping on the ground sounds too rustic, splurge on a glamping option like a luxury bell tent or yurt, which come fully equipped and invite a cozy night’s sleep. By night, the fields are dotted with lantern light and bonfires while campers strum guitars and sing. The atmosphere is super-friendly: swap stories over morning coffee, share snacks with neighbors, or join an impromptu jam session under the stars.

So pack your bags and get ready to join the flock! Red Rooster Festival is more than just a series of concerts – it’s a weekend of joyful community spirit. Gather your friends and family (the more the merrier – and kids under 12 go free!) and let the music move you. From the first band on Thursday afternoon through the closing song Saturday night, you’ll create memories of laughter, friendship and fantastic live music. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Red Rooster tradition!