David Rodigan, The Selecter and Chip are set to headline this year's Godiva in the City event, with tickets set to be available from 10am on Tuesday 23 June.
The Coventry City Council-run event is a new two-day celebration of music, culture and creativity taking place in Coventry city centre on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July.
Bringing the Godiva spirit into the heart of the city, the free event will celebrate Coventry's rich musical heritage and vibrant creative scene, supporting local organisations and showcasing emerging local talent alongside nationally acclaimed artists.
The music programme will be headlined by reggae legend David Rodigan, Coventry ska icons The Selecter – whose influence helped establish Coventry as the home of Two Tone – and pioneering UK rapper, Chip.
The weekend will also shine a spotlight on the next generation of the city’s talent, with performances from local artists and this year's Godiva Calling winners, highlighting the city's thriving grassroots music scene and its long-standing reputation for producing exceptional musicians.
Performances will take place across two dedicated music stages at Millennium Place and Gosford Street Car Park. Running from 12pm to 8pm each day, these are the only ticketed areas of the event, with all other activities and attractions remaining freely accessible throughout the city centre.
Councillor John McNicholas, Cabinet Member responsible for events at Coventry City Council, said: "Godiva in the City is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our city's creativity, culture and musical talent.
"We’re using the event to showcase the creativity of the city – the music makers or those who have inspired the city, creative companies based in the city or those with connections who share our values. Coventry has a proud musical heritage that is recognised around the world, from Two Tone to the incredible artists emerging from the city today.
“We're incredibly proud to present a completely free programme that puts Coventry talent centre stage whilst bringing nationally recognised artists into the heart of our city.
"The event reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the local creative sector and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy events in the city centre.
"Whether you're interested in the music, the family activities or simply want to experience the atmosphere, there will be something for everyone to enjoy."
Beyond the music, visitors can experience family-friendly activities across some of Coventry's most iconic locations. The Cathedral Ruins will be a Secret Garden, where families can get lost in a storybook journey, meet whimsical characters and discover the wonders of nature through dance, shows and hands on activities.
Coventry’s very own Fabularium, Ego Theatre, Ascension Dance and Highly Sprung will all be part of the programme with each organisation delivering a bespoke performance for the event.
A highlight will be Unity – a large-scale circus spectacle, featuring high-wire walking, dance-trapeze and aerial stunts, performed to a piece from former Poet Laureate, John Bernard. The line-up for this year’s event can be found on the Godiva Festival website.
Tickets are required to access the stages at Millennium Place and Gosford Street Car Park. A maximum of six tickets can be booked by each person – two adult and four under 18s. All under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult with a maximum of two under 18s per adult. All other areas of the event are accessible without tickets. Full details about tickets, including restrictions and terms and conditions can be found on the Godiva in the City website.
Godiva in the City forms part of Coventry's wider summer events programme already begun with We Are Back: Live and Windrush Festival and will deliver a vibrant weekend of music, culture and entertainment in the city centre.