Tickets on sale for the second Melton Ska Fest live music event
Melton Ska Fest is returning to the town’s Play Close Park this summer after a very successful inaugural event.
The festival quickly established itself as a premier destination for Ska, Reggae, and 2-Tone enthusiasts, blending world-class tribute acts with an authentic community atmosphere.
That first show last year, organised by Melton Mowbray Town Estate, was sold out with more than 1,800 music fans enjoying some top acts.
It was shortlisted for the prestigious National Outdoor Event Association (NOEA) ‘Small Event of the Year’ title and the 2026 edition promises to be ‘bigger and better’.
Tickets are on sale for the 2026 festival – on Saturday July 25 – where the line-up will be led by The Beat, featuring Ranking Junior, carrying forward the legacy of the legendary Ranking Roger.
They are joined by Xodus, the UK’s top Bob Marley tribute, and Johnny 2 Bad, whose faithful UB40 sound has been endorsed by Ali Campbell himself.
Local favourite and Melton’s own ska ambassador, Steve Wallbanks (One Man Two Tone), will also make a special homecoming appearance from Benidorm.
Dean Rees, CEO of Melton Mowbray Town Estate, said: "The inaugural event in 2025 was a watershed moment for the Town Estate.
"We saw people travelling from across the country to skank under our open skies.
"For 2026, we’ve taken all the feedback to heart, expanding our facilities and hand-picking a line-up that celebrates the deep roots of working-class music culture."
The festival will once again feature the Boot Boy Radio Crew, this year joined by the formidable Trojan Sound International.
Go to www.meltonskafest.co.uk to get more information and to buy tickets.