Iron Maiden have announced Blaze Bayley as the Friday night headline act for EDDFEST at Knebworth, marking a major moment in the band’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Bayley, who fronted Iron Maiden between 1994 and 1999, will perform a special set featuring songs from his era, including material from The X Factor and Virtual XI. “I’m so excited to be invited to headline Friday night at EDDFEST, celebrating 50 years of Iron Maiden,” says Blaze.
“I am so proud of my two albums with the band, and I’m really looking forward to playing some of the songs that we recorded together. Can’t wait to see you all at the hallowed grounds of Knebworth!”
Steve Harris personally curated the Maidenville stage, bringing together key moments from his musical journey. The line-up also includes Gypsy’s Kiss, Harris’s first band, making the event a unique retrospective of Iron Maiden’s roots.
“Having the opportunity to put together our very own festival at Knebworth, and celebrate 50 years of Iron Maiden, has given me a chance to bring together friends past and present and create a really special weekend for the fans,” Steve Harris said.”
“I’m very pleased that Blaze is able to join us and perform some of the songs we wrote and recorded in the ’90s. He has been a big part of Iron Maiden’s career, and I know the fans will be really excited to see him on stage at EDDFEST.
“It’s also great to have Gypsy’s Kiss playing with us at Knebworth, too. They were a big part of my musical heritage, and it’s really exciting to have them play at the Maidenville stage.”
EDDFEST promises a full weekend experience, including the Infinite Dreams Museum Experience, themed bars, live entertainment and immersive fan activities, culminating in Iron Maiden’s headline performance on Saturday.
The event takes place at Knebworth on 10 and 11 July 2026 and is expected to be a landmark moment for Heavy Metal fans.
