La Linea 2026: London’s Premier Latin Festival Champions Women Artists with Groundbreaking 90% Female Lineup

London’s longest-running and most prominent Latin music festival, the La Linea Festival, is set to return in spring 2026 with an unprecedented focus on female artistry. The 26th edition of the La Linea Festival, scheduled from April 20 to May 6, 2026, will feature a program composed of 90% women artists, underscoring a deep commitment to amplifying female voices within the dynamic Latin music scene. Presented by Como No, this esteemed Latin music festival aims to not only showcase established talent but also to serve as a vital platform for emerging ideas and fresh perspectives in the genre. This edition of the La Linea Festival truly highlights women in music, making it a standout among London music events.

La Linea Festival: Empowering Women in Music and Fostering Connection

Festival director Elena Beltrami, who took the helm in April 2024, articulated the guiding principle for the 2026 edition of the La Linea Festival: “connection.” This theme is envisioned across multiple dimensions – connecting continents through diverse musical traditions, bridging generations with a blend of classic and contemporary sounds, and forging new sonic pathways within Latin music itself. Beltrami highlighted the festival’s dedication to showcasing the extraordinary creativity of women who are currently shaping the genre, alongside London-based artists who are actively reimagining its future. This curatorial approach signals a deliberate effort to celebrate and uplift female talent, addressing historical underrepresentation in the music industry, and ensuring the La Linea Festival champions women in music.

A Stellar Lineup of Female Trailblazers at the La Linea Festival

The 2026 program boasts an impressive array of international and UK-based female artists, spanning various subgenres of Latin music. Among the featured performers is Mexican singer-songwriter Silvana Estrada, a Latin Grammy winner for Best New Artist in 2022, who will bring her acclaimed album “Vendrán Suaves Lluvias” to London. Her inclusion marks a significant moment, following her sold-out shows and widespread recognition, including an NPR Tiny Desk performance. Silvana Estrada is a prime example of the incredible female Latin artists gracing the La Linea Festival stage.

Portuguese fado performer Sara Correia will open the festival at the Barbican, presenting new material. Spanish vocalist Maria Arnal will showcase her avant-pop project “Ama” in collaboration with fellow Spanish artist Queralt Lahoz, who brings music from her genre-bending album “9:30 PM”. Maria Arnal and Queralt Lahoz represent the cutting edge of modern Latin music, perfectly aligning with the ethos of the La Linea Festival. Brazilian artist Zé Ibarra, known from the Latin Grammy-winning group Bala Desejo, is set to make his UK debut, offering a modern interpretation of Música Popular Brasileira.

The festival also shines a light on collective female power and local talent. “Latinas of London,” led by UK-based artist Desta French, returns to spotlight the city’s vibrant Latina community. Pianist and bandleader Eliane Correa will present “Las Salseras – A Tribute to Celia Cruz,” an all-female salsa ensemble commemorating the centenary of the legendary Cuban artist. Other notable acts include Argentine nu-cumbia artist La Yegros and Peruvian artist Renata Flores, who blends trap, pop, and Andean styles. Mexican rock band Caifanes, a globally recognized act, will also perform an intimate show, adding to the diverse offerings at this premier London music event.

La Linea: A Pillar of London’s Latin Scene and a Premier London Music Event

Now in its 26th year, the La Linea Festival has established itself as a cornerstone of London’s diverse cultural fabric, consistently championing the ever-evolving sounds of Latin America and its diaspora. Founded by Andy Wood and now led by Elena Beltrami as Director of Como No, the festival has a rich history of bringing iconic artists and groundbreaking new talent to the capital. Como No, operating as a not-for-profit organization supported by the Arts Council of England, plays a crucial role in fostering cultural exchange between Latin America and the UK, making the La Linea Festival a vital part of these London music events.

The festival’s decision to dedicate 90% of its 2026 lineup to women artists arrives at a time when female Latin artists are increasingly breaking barriers and dominating global charts in Latin music, challenging traditional norms and bringing fresh perspectives. This strong focus on women in music is a hallmark of the La Linea Festival. The La Linea Festival 2026 promises to be a significant cultural moment, celebrating the immense contributions of women to Latin music and reaffirming London’s status as a global hub for its diverse and innovative sounds. The commitment to showcasing leading female Latin artists contributes significantly to this reputation.

Tickets for the La Linea Festival 2026 are available for purchase. Further artists and details are expected to be announced in early 2026.