THE GODIVA Festival will not take place this year after organisers revealed the Coventry music weekender would be put ‘on pause’ and replaced by a programme of summer events in the city centre.
Coventry City Council said the War Memorial Park festival, which has been running for over 25 years, has been cancelled for 2026 due to ‘rising costs and industry challenges affecting festivals across the UK’.
The council says the hiatus will allow for a full review of how the festival can be ‘delivered sustainably in the future’.
In its place, a new programme of music, culture and creative events will take place in Coventry city centre this summer.
The programme will be centred around Godiva in the City, a two-day event on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July showcasing local musicians and creative talent.
Other free and low-cost events will focus on music, culture, sport and Coventry’s heritage to support the city’s creative sectors and represent its values and heritage.
Coun Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader of Coventry City Council and Cabinet Member for Events, said: “Godiva Festival has been part of Coventry for over 25 years and we recognise its importance to residents, artists and wider audiences.
“However, like many festivals across the country, we are facing rising costs and industry challenges, and it is important that we carefully review how the festival can be delivered in a sustainable and cost-effective way that is affordable for Coventry’s residents. This time will allow us to explore future options.
“While the festival will not take place this year, our support for Coventry’s creative sector and community events continues.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has supported Godiva Festival over the years, and we remain committed to supporting local music and creative talent.
“Our programme of exciting free and low-cost city centre events will be taking place for residents to enjoy this summer, and we can’t wait to tell you more about our plans.”
More details about the summer events programme will be released over the coming months.
