The Reading and Leeds Festival 2025, set to feature major headliners such as Travis Scott, Bring Me the Horizon, Hozier, and Chappell Roan for her exclusive UK headline festival appearance, is currently buzzing with intense speculation about potential secret sets. Festival-goers are meticulously analyzing schedules and social media for any clues, as unexpected performances are a well-established and much-anticipated tradition at the twin festivals, which are held over the same weekend.

Among the most heavily rumored acts are two bands whose new album releases are coinciding with the festival. Fans are convinced that the Brit rock band Wolf Alice will make a surprise appearance, with their fourth studio album, “The Clearing,” due to be released on Friday, August 22. Similarly, the Australian electronic rock band Pendulum is also a strong contender for a secret set, especially since their newest album, “Inertia,” is also being released on the same Friday, aligning with their current tour schedule.

Further fueling the excitement, fans of The Foo Fighters have noticed unusual gaps in the festival lineup poster and have highlighted a nostalgic Instagram post by the band. The post featured a throwback video of their 2019 Reading Festival performance, prompting many to interpret it as a potential hint for a secret appearance this year. While many are enthusiastic about the possibility of the legendary band making a surprise return, others in the community express skepticism, noting that it has been years since an act of their caliber performed a secret set, calling it a “less than zero chance.” The Foo Fighters have a rich history with the festival, headlining multiple times since 2002.

Another specific rumor circulating on Reddit points towards Chase & Status potentially performing a secret set at 19:30 on the Aux Stage at Reading. This speculation gained traction after the festival’s official Instagram account posted a silhouette clue of two people with question marks, which many fans believe strongly resembles the electronic duo.

However, not all news regarding the lineup is about additions. American rockers House of Protection have confirmed they will no longer be able to perform at this year’s Reading & Leeds Festivals. The band cited financial difficulties, stemming from the unfortunate cancellation of the Heavy Music Awards, which was a crucial source of funding for their travel to the UK. Despite this setback, House of Protection has assured their fans that they will return to the UK in October to tour with fellow band Architects. The festival promises a dynamic experience with its mix of confirmed stars and the ever-present possibility of thrilling surprise performances.