East Midlands Gospel Music Festival 2026

3rd Edition - Expanding impact

The East Midlands Gospel Music Festival (EMGMF) returned for its third edition on 29 August 2026 at Vaillant Live, Derby.

Organised by Connect Outreach CIC, the festival brought together artists, families, young people, community organisations, civic representatives and guests for an evening of live gospel music, creativity and community connection.

Moving to Vaillant Live marked an important step in the festival's development, providing a larger platform for established and emerging artists while creating an accessible cultural experience in the heart of Derby.

EMGMF forms part of Connect Outreach CIC's wider commitment to using music and creative engagement to empower young people, strengthen communities and create positive opportunities across Derby and the East Midlands.

EMGMF 2026 IN PICTURES

LIVE MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

EMGMF 2026 brought together an exciting programme of gospel music, live performance and creative expression.

Audiences enjoyed performances from internationally recognised artists alongside UK and local talent, community performers and emerging artists — creating a platform that celebrated both established voices and developing talent.

MORE THAN A MUSIC FESTIVAL

EMGMF is about more than live performance. The festival creates a space where music becomes a catalyst for connection, positive engagement and community participation.

The 2026 festival welcomed community organisations, civic representatives, partners, volunteers, families and young people, creating opportunities for conversations and connections beyond the stage.

Through EMGMF, Connect Outreach CIC continues to use creativity as a way of bringing people together and supporting its wider work with young people and communities.

THANK YOU

EMGMF 2026 would not have been possible without the contribution of our artists, volunteers, partners, sponsors, supporters and everyone who joined us on the day.

We are grateful to every individual and organisation that contributed their time, resources, expertise and support to help bring the third edition of the East Midlands Gospel Music Festival to life.