Start of the Line Festival

Start of the Line is a brand-new music, arts and culture festival coming to Morden Park in June 2026. 

• Saturday 20 June 2026 
• Morden Park 
• 12:30-10:00pm 
• Tickets £20 
• 12 and under: free 

The one-day spectacular will bring world-class artists into heart of the community in the London Borough of Merton to perform alongside the best of what the borough has to offer. 

Headlining the event are Soul II Soul, the pioneering British soul collective behind Back to Life; The Hoosiers, the chart-topping indiepop band known for Worried About Ray; and Billy Nomates, the critically acclaimed postpunk/indie artist with a bold, unmistakable sound.  

These acts lead an already impressive lineup, including Mitcham Dreamer stage produced by Mitcham local RAMZ, Flex FM Dance Tent, an area curated by Polka Theatre, a specialist children's theatre based in Wimbledon, and musical legend Jah Wobble. 

The festival aims to give people of all ages the chance to both enjoy the performances and get hands-on with creative activities.  

Start of the Line, one of Merton Council's most ambitious outdoor events, will also show a different side of Morden. The festival will showcase the vibrant heart of a London community in a stunning park considered one of southwest London's best-kept secrets. Because Morden is not the end of the line, it's the start.  

Confirmed areas and artists:  

The Mainstage: the festival's heartbeat, hosting exciting big-name acts across the day, including: Soul II Soul, The Hoosiers and Billy Nomates 

Mitcham Dreamer Stage: grassroots and emerging artists, with a line up produced by rapper, singer and songwriter, RAMZ  

Polka Playden: the festival's family area, delivered by the award-winning Polka Theatre. Includes circus skills and storytelling workshops.

Connected Voices Village: a space for connection and conversation. A chance to get involved with musical workshops, debate and hear from spoken word artists.  

As well as areas, tents and stages, Start of the Line will also have roving performances across the site, and an exciting food and drink offer.

For the full line up, visit the official festival website www.merton.gov.uk/SOTL