We’re still a few months out from descending on Catton Park, but the Bloodstock HQ team have just dropped a massive update to help you prep for the 25th-anniversary bash. There isn’t a single band announcement in this lot, but if you’re wondering what to pack or how to spend your late-night hours, listen up.
Get your gear ready: Fancy dress themes revealed
First things first, let’s talk costumes. Bloodstockers love a bit of fancy dress, and the 2026 themes have officially landed so you’ve got plenty of time to hit the sewing machine (or Amazon).
- Thursday: Dinosaurs. With Heavysaurus on the bill, it was a no-brainer. Dust off that inflatable T-Rex suit from a few years back; it’s officially vintage now.
- Friday: Twisted Fairytales. Think “Malice in Wonderland” or a particularly grimy version of Hansel and Gretel. Dark, macabre, and Goth fairies are the order of the day.
- Saturday: The 1980s. Mullets, neon, leopard print, or your favourite movie character. Basically, if it looks like it belongs in a Mötley Crüe video or a John Hughes film, you’re golden.
- Sunday: Lord of the Rings / Fantasy. This is a special one to mark festival founder Paul Gregory exhibiting his massive Morannon oil painting in the RAM Gallery. Whether you’re a wizard, an orc, or a dragon, bring the Middle-earth vibes to the final day.
Late night shenanigans and the return of Black Ice Cream
When the main stage lights go down, the party is just starting. The silent disco is returning to the New Blood stage with more channels than ever, featuring everything from 90s nu-metal and stoner vibes (hosted by Rich Harris) to a full-on “Blood Rave” at the Sophie stage inspired by the opening of Blade. Keep an eye out on Friday night, as Evan Seinfeld of Biohazard will be stepping behind the decks for a special guest set.
Food-wise, the legendary Black Ice Cream is back with a “new and improved” recipe. You’ll find the truck near the Ronnie James Dio stage. If you need something more substantial, the food line-up this year is mental – everything from Spudman and gyoza to paella and vegan “chik’n”.
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VIP luxury and “The Spa”
If you were lucky enough to snag a VIP ticket before they sold out, you’re in for a treat. The Serpent’s Lair is hosting a Never Mind The Bloodstocks quiz run by the Raised By Owls lads/lunatics, plus there’s a proper luxury spa on site this year. We’re talking wood-fired hot tubs, saunas, and even a “Pamper Parlour” where you can get your beard plaited or a battle-ready Mohawk styled before you hit the pit.
Cycling for a cause: Heavy Metal Truants
On a more serious note, Bloodstock has confirmed its 2026 charity partners: The Sophie Lancaster Foundation and the Heavy Metal Truants. For the first time ever, the Truants – co-founded by Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood – are ditching the ride to Download and heading straight for Catton Park instead. It’s a 175-mile cycle from London, and it’s open to anyone (including rockstars) who wants to raise money for children’s charities. We’ve supported the Truants’ efforts for years, and seeing them roll into the Bloodstock gates will be a proper “hero’s welcome” moment.
Travel and tickets
For those still sorting their route, Big Green Coach are running carbon-neutral services from all over the UK. New for this year, you can even book to arrive on Wednesday to take advantage of the early-bird camping. While weekend tickets are long gone, day tickets are still available for £99 if you want to catch headliners like Judas Priest, Lamb of God, or Saxon.
