Next month, Forest Live returns to Cannock Chase (for its 25th Anniversary) with a stacked lineup of dance, rock, pop and reggae legends. If you’re looking to explore the forest in between the live music, there are plenty of activities on offer for the whole family. Get down early to wander the woodland walking trails, try out the family cycling trails and Go Ape experiences, and relax in the cafe and picnic areas.
The natural amphitheatre arena at Cannock Chase Forest is located in the heart of the Midlands. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the forest is the biggest outdoor pursuits tourist attraction in Staffordshire. Cannock Chase also boasts orienteering courses, running trails, disc golf, children’s play areas, including Pedal and Play and family trails.
Forestry England’s work in the forest has helped with diversification of tree species, allowing them to be more resilient against diseases and protecting the forests for the future.
Once you’ve explored the forest, head down to the amphitheatre to catch some truly legendary acts amongst the trees. Series opener Billy Ocean takes to the stage on the 24th June, sure to enthral fans in the stunning woodland venue. Following him will be superstar DJ and Producer, Fatboy Slim then dance queen Becky Hill. The weekend will see UB40 ft Ali Campbell on the Saturday night with the mighty MCFLY closing the weekend on the Sunday.
Tickets for all shows are on sale now through www.forestlive.com
Merging stellar performances from world-class acts with beautiful outdoor locations to create an atmosphere like no other, Forest Live will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in 2026 with stunning shows in four forest venues: Forestry England Cannock Chase, Delamere Forest, High Lodge Thetford Forest and Westonbirt Arboretum.
Nile Rodgers & Chic were the last confirmed headliners for Forest Live’s 25th Anniversary shows in 2026 (playing Thetford Forest). They joined Fatboy Slim (playing all venues), Richard Ashcroft (Westonbirt Arboretum), Rick Astley (Westonbirt Arboretum) McFLY (Cannock Chase Forest, Delamere Forest and Thetford Forest), Billy Ocean & Marti Pellow (Cannock Chase Forest), Garbage & Skunk Anansie (Delamere Forest) Deacon Blue & Lightning Seeds (Westonbirt Arboretum), Becky Hill (Cannock Chase Forest), Snow Patrol (Thetford Forest), The Kooks (Delamere Forest) and UB40 ft Ali Campbell (playing all venues).
Forestry England manage and care for the nation’s 1,500 woods and forests. They use the money Forest Live raises to maintain these beautiful natural areas for everyone to enjoy, run important conservation projects and keep growing trees. Last year they planted some 7.4 million trees and welcomed 313 million visits in 2024/25. Everyone in England lives within a one-hour drive of one of the nation’s forests. Over two million people have enjoyed the Forest Live gigs over the last 25 years.
Following a hugely successful run of shows over the past 25 years, this year sees Forestry England present the concert series in partnership with Live Nation’s Cuffe & Taylor for the third year running.
Forests will be open to visit during the day, but may close earlier than usual. You will need to pay day rates for car parking at the forest as this is not included in your Forest Live car parking ticket. You may need to move your car when the forest closes until car parking opens for Forest Live customers.
Forestry England Cannock Chase Forest Live 2026 dates:
Wednesday 24 June: Billy Ocean (with special guest Marti Pellow and Katie Owen)
Thursday 25 June: Fatboy Slim (with Lizzie Curious and LP Giobbi)
Friday 26 June: Becky Hill (with Hannah Wants and Emily Makis)
Saturday 27 June: UB40 ft Ali Campbell (with Bitty McLean and Reggae Roast ft MC Horseman)
Sunday 28 June: MCFLY (with Twin Atlantic and Remember Monday)
Tickets on sale now. Fans can sign up for further information, announcements, and Forestry England information at forestlive.com.