The 13th edition of Independent Venue Week launches today (January 26).
Organisers have reported a 10% increase in venues taking part in this year’s seven-day celebration of live music and culture.
With 236 authentic, independently-owned venues set to participate, fans can show support for this part of the music ecosystem with 700-plus gigs and events being promoted during the week. Full details can be found on the IVW website.
Since launching in 2013, more than one million tickets have been purchased for IVW events.The initiative helps to fill venues at a traditionally quiet time of year, providing performance and fan-building opportunities for artists.
Sybil Bell, CEO & founder, Independent Venue Week, said: “It’s brilliant to see our second highest ever number of venues taking part in IVW. I think that’s a very clear sign that venues want the opportunity to enjoy a positive and celebratory week that shines a light on the brilliant work they do year-round.
“With over 700 shows on sale all around the country, IVW allows artists and the public alike to come together and recognise what these spaces mean to them – supporting local creative businesses whilst kicking off 2026 with some epic live music. More than ever, fans are also showing that they want to be out, in person with mates, being in the moment and not on a screen. I’m really excited by the sheer range and diversity of shows on offer, and this year looks set to deliver some magical moments creating lasting memories for the future.”
This year’s celebrations are led by a series of exclusive live performances from IVW’s 2026 Artist Ambassadors Nova Twins (pictured), Brògeal (Scotland) and Eve Goodman (Wales).
Nova Twins will perform at London’s 300-capacity Amersham Arms on Tuesday (January 27), while folk-punk five-piece Brògeal perform two shows in Scotland at Galashiels (January 30) and The Venue in Dumfries (31st January).
Meanwhile, Eve Goodman plays a solo gig at the tiny Caffi Isa in Mold on January 26 alongside shows with fellow singer-songwriter Sera at Swansea’s Swansea’s Ty Tawe (January 30) and Pembroke’s Cwtch Coffee (February 1).
With over 700 shows on sale all around the country, IVW allows artists and the public alike to come together and recognise what these spaces mean to them
Sybil Bell
Fans can also enjoy extensive coverage on BBC Radio 6 Music, including a live Teatime Session from Strings in Newport on the Isle of Wight, where Steve Lamacq and Huw Stephens will present a performance from Coach Party from 4pm today.
From Tuesday (January 27) to Thursday (January 29), Huw Stephens will continue to take listeners on a deep dive into the UK’s independent live music industry, with guidance from BBC Introducing presenters.
Elsewhere, Beavertown brewery will support Independent Venue Week for the fourth consecutive year by sponsoring seven shows across seven cities and seven venues.
Some of the other artists performing during the week include Dove Ellis, Sorry, Craig Finn, Mika, Eliza Carthy, Brown Horse, Shovel Dance Collective, Future Utopia, Annie & The Caldwells, Naima Bock, Buzzcocks, The Clause, Dream Wife, HotWax, She Drew The Gun, The Molotovs, The Orielles, Lucy Spraggan, and many more.
This year, IVW is partnering with PRS Foundation and their Early Career Promoter Fund, supporting five previous ECPF grantees to promote their own shows around the country during the week.
IVW26 is supported by a range of partners, including Arts Council England, Beavertown, BBC Radio 6 Music and by The National Lottery through Creative Scotland and PPL.
PHOTO: Tamiym Cader
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