Davido, a renowned Nigerian Afrobeats star, has announced plans to headline and curate his first-ever UK festival, Davido & Friends, at the Crystal Palace Bowl in South London on Friday, August 14, 2026. The event is part of the newly launched Palace Bowl Presents series, which will run from July 31 to August 16, 2026. According to the festival's curator, Davido, the event will feature a full-day performance with a list of supporting acts, described as "friends," yet to be unveiled.
The Crystal Palace Bowl, an iconic open-air amphitheatre, has a capacity of about 15,000 and has undergone recent upgrades to revive its status as a major live music destination in London. Other headline performances confirmed as part of the Palace Bowl Presents series include Grace Jones, Tom Jones, Gary Numan, and Bastille. Ticket sales for the event are expected to commence later this week, with presale access opening on Thursday, March 26, followed by general sales on Friday, March 27.
Davido's upcoming London festival marks a significant moment for Afrobeats, which has gained global recognition in recent years. The event is expected to attract a large audience, given the singer's popularity and the iconic status of the Crystal Palace Bowl.
Davido's decision to headline and curate his first-ever UK festival is a testament to his influence in the global music scene. As one of the leading figures in Afrobeats, he has played a crucial role in promoting the genre's growth and recognition worldwide. The event is expected to attract a large audience, with ticket sales opening soon. With a capacity of 15,000, the Crystal Palace Bowl provides a significant platform for the event, which will undoubtedly showcase Davido's talents and Afrobeats' global appeal. The festival's success will have a ripple effect on the UK live music scene, potentially paving the way for more international artists to perform in the country.
