Crossed Wires Podcast Festival returns to Sheffield in July 2026 — bringing four days of live podcasts, big names, and buzzing city-wide events to South Yorkshire.

Described by The Sunday Times as “buzzy”, “zippy” and “great fun”, Crossed Wires has quickly grown into one of the world’s biggest podcast festivals, with up to 35,000 people expected to descend on Sheffield across four packed days.
What Is Crossed Wires Podcast Festival?
Running from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 July 2026, the festival takes over multiple venues across Sheffield, combining headline live podcast recordings with a lively Fringe, pop-ups, after-parties and one-off shows.

It’s designed for both first-time visitors and returning fans — whether you’re deep into podcast culture or just looking for something different to do in Sheffield this summer.
First Wave Line-Up Announced
The first wave of acts confirmed for 2026 includes:
Dig It with Jo Whiley & Zoe Ball
How to Fail with Elizabeth Day
The Blindboy Podcast with Blindboy Boatclub
If I Speak with Ash Sarkar & Moya Lothian McLean
Get A Grip with Angela Scanlon & Vicky Pattison
Bold Politics with Zack Polanski
More acts are still to be announced, with organisers promising an even bigger and broader programme.
BBC Sounds & Free Events
BBC Sounds will also return in 2026, bringing free events, signature storytelling, and familiar BBC voices to the heart of the festival — making Crossed Wires one of the most accessible large-scale festivals in Sheffield.
A City-Wide Festival Experience
From intimate pop-ups to immersive storytelling, Crossed Wires continues to evolve. Expect:
Live podcast recordings
A buzzing Fringe programme
After-parties and special events
Opportunities to discover new podcasts
A welcoming crowd of fellow fans
It’s not just a festival — it’s a celebration of Sheffield’s growing reputation as a home for live conversation, creativity, and independent culture.

👉 Perfect for anyone searching for things to do in Sheffield July 2026, Sheffield festivals, or podcast events in the UK.

For full line-up details and updates, visit: https://crossedwires.live

Event details