As the calendar turns to February, believers and worshipers across the U.S. are already gearing up for a vibrant season of Christian music festivals in 2026. From beloved touring events to multi‑day gatherings, these festivals offer music, fellowship, worship, and inspiration for families, youth groups, and church communities alike.
Here's a rundown of verified Christian music festivals and events shaping the faith‑filled festival landscape this year:
Rock the Universe - Jan. 23-24
Held at Universal Studios Florida, Rock the Universe 2026 kicked off the year with a dynamic lineup of Christian artists set to lift hearts through music and worship. The festival blends high‑energy performances with fellowship and prayer experiences.
Winter Jam Tour Spectacular - January to April
Christian music's long‑running tour - known simply as Winter Jam 2026 - launched in early January and will continue through spring, stopping in cities across the U.S. The tour features top artists like Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day, and more, drawing fans to arenas with a mix of worship, teaching, and music.
Lifest - July 9-12
One of the nation's largest Christian music festivals returns in summer 2026. Lifest, held in Oshkosh, WI, brings believers together for four days of music, teaching, and community. Confirmed artists include Rend Collective, CAIN, Josiah Queen, Leanna Crawford and Skillet - a mix of worship and contemporary Christian music favorites.
Kingdom Bound - July 27-29
Set at Darien Lake in Western New York, Kingdom Bound is a multi‑day Christian music and family event featuring dozens of performers, camping, fellowship activities, and worship sessions.
Unity Christian Music Festival - August 5-8
The four‑day Unity Festival in Muskegon, Michigan, combines great music with food, fellowship, and family fun. The 2026 lineup includes bands like for KING & COUNTRY, Crowder, We Are Messengers, Megan Woods, Leanna Crawford, and more.
40 Days of Christian Music - July 28-Sept. 5
Touted as the world's largest Christian music festival, 40 Days of Christian Music returns for an extended summer season at iconic locations including the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum.
Other Notable Events
Christian music lovers can also look forward to:
-
Connect Fest (June 27) in New Hampshire
-
Amplify Fest & RiseFest (June 12-13) in Arkansas and Iowa
-
Hillfest (July 18) in New England, featuring artists such as Josiah Queen, CAIN, Jamie MacDonald, and Patrick Mayberry
-
Pennsylvania Gospel Music Festival (Sept. 4-6) with beloved gospel performers.
Why Christian Festivals Matter in 2026
Christian music festivals are more than concerts - they're community experiences where believers can worship together, rejoice in shared faith, and encounter God through both music and message. For many families and youth groups, these gatherings offer a refreshing spiritual lifeline amid daily routines.
Whether you're planning a road trip with your church, organizing a youth group outing, or simply seeking a time of focused worship and fellowship this year, 2026's festival lineup has something for everyone.
