The inaugural Engelfest took place in Stoke-on-Trent, featuring a lineup of emo and hardcore bands from across the UK. The event showcased diverse subgenres and drew crowds from various regions, signaling a revival in the local music scene. Performances ranged from fast-paced emo to digital hardcore, with several acts delivering standout sets.
Engelfest 2026, held at The Underground in Stoke-on-Trent, marked the debut of an emo-focused day festival announced late the previous year. The lineup spanned subgenres including post-hardcore, scramz, emotional hardcore, deathcore, and digital hardcore, attracting attendees from across the country.
Sativa from Crewe opened with urgent, riff-heavy emo that energized the crowd early. Small World followed, bringing an indie-tinged sound with dual vocals and upbeat energy. Monroe., an up-and-coming post-hardcore band selected as a 2026 Ones-to-Watch, featured guest vocals from Izabel Lavin of Demeanour and delivered huge choruses with intense screams.
Voteforpedro made their debut in the area with raw scramz, earning praise as a potential highlight through chaotic vocals and a packed room. Local act Southwalk, returning since 2025, performed emotional hardcore despite technical feedback issues, showing clear growth. Dear Diary from Leeds evoked early 2000s deathcore reminiscent of Bring Me The Horizon's EP era, complete with side-to-sides and energetic dancing.
Allmylifeneededwasasenseofsomeplacetogo intensified the atmosphere with political dedications, a Paramore cover, and feral new material, encouraging mic grabs and stage dives. I’m Sorry Emil offered midwest emo influences with erratic vocals and sing-along sections. My Rushmore from Glasgow provided traditional emo with twinkly riffs and relatable lyrics.
The solo performer 300skullsandcounting, using a laptop and led by Hal Hewetson, introduced digital hardcore elements inspired by international acts like Zombieshark. Algae Bloom closed the event, delivering raw energy in what was a special performance ahead of their announced disbandment later in 2026.
Organized with support from promoters such as 1782 Promotions, Riff Factory, and Spirit Of Fire Promotions, Engelfest underscored Stoke-on-Trent's resurgent live music vitality.