Boardmasters 2026 is underway today, 5 August, in Newquay, Cornwall, with over 50,000 people anticipated to attend the surf and music festival. The event, which includes music, surfing, skating, and wellness activities, will run until 9 August at Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach.
While activities at Fistral Beach are open to the public for free, access to events at Watergate Bay is restricted to Boardmasters ticket holders. The festival features a lineup of artists across four stages, with headliners including Fatboy Slim, Lily Allen, and Kasabian performing on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday respectively.
Road closures are in effect for crowd safety, including Alexandra Road and Watergate Road, with specific timings for Wednesday through Monday. Diversions are in place for vehicles heading towards the festival. Parking is available from £50, and a Festival Shuttle wristband for unlimited trips between sites costs £15.
The Boardmasters Open surf competition at Fistral Beach has a new Qualifying Series 4,000 status this year, offering increased points for competitors. Attendees are advised to wear wristbands at all times and children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or over.