We obviously love a festival here in Manchester, and being the home of Parklife, we take our summer events seriously. Now, Highfield Cricket Club in Wigan is set to host its biggest event to date with the launch of Summer Sounds Festival, a new large-scale tribute music festival expected to welcome more than 2,500 people as part of its Summer Series 2026.
Taking place on Saturday 27 June 2026, this new event will deliver a full day and evening of live tribute music alongside food, drink and a festival atmosphere from 1pm to 9.30pm.
Although well-known for hosting many community events throughout the year, Summer Sounds 2026 marks the first time Highfield will transform its extensive 13,000 sqm grounds into a dedicated music festival.
Who will be performing at Summer Sounds 2026?
Headlining the main stage will be Ian Gallagher, fronting the ‘Deffo Maybe’ Oasis tribute. Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most authentic Oasis tribute performers, Ian has toured extensively across the UK and internationally, sharing stages with Kasabian, Pete Doherty, Reverend and the Makers and Status Quo.
The wider Summer Sounds bill also includes renowned tribute acts ABBA Alike and Manchester’s Take Off That, alongside tributes to Robbie Williams, George Michael and Blondie. They will be supported by local artists Tom Byrom, Rick Whitehead and John Blaylock, who recently returned from touring with Wet Wet Wet.
Alongside a full day programme of live music, Summer Sounds Festival will feature street food and drink vendors, an outdoor bar, and private gazebo pitches. The event aims to bring a true festival atmosphere to Highfield, combining nationally recognised acts with a strong local line-up.
Michael Gregory, Chairman of Highfield Cricket Club said: “Summer Sounds is an exciting new chapter for Highfield. It builds on our long history of community events while creating something new for adult audiences, with all proceeds supporting grassroots sport and opportunities for young people locally.”
Summer Sounds Festival has already gained strong early momentum, with early bird tickets, VIP and gazebo pitches sold out, and sponsorship secured from local and regional businesses.
How to get tickets
A limited number of standard tickets remain, priced at £30 per person, with the option to pay via Klarna. With demand already high, early booking is advised for what is set to be one of Wigan’s biggest live music events this summer.
You can find further information, tickets and updates here.