Underground hair event Hair Jam is returning for its fourth edition on Sunday 25 October 2026, this time with a Halloween night inspired by ’80s VHS horror.
bebop, London’s independent hair & nail salon, is bringing Hair Jam back for a stylish yet spooky evening on Sunday 25th October, sponsored by Maria Nila UK. The event is expected to run from 7:30pm to 10pm at bebop, Unit 9-10 8 Hornsey Street, London N7 8EG, and is free for anyone in the industry to attend.
This year the line-up is led by women and non-binary artists, with Hair Jam 2026 set to give often overlooked talent room to be seen, without the egos or hierarchy that often come with traditional shows.
Hair Jam launched on Friday 13th October 2023 as an alternative to the big-name shows that tend to dominate the hair calendar. Rather than a seated show fronted by the usual figureheads, it puts independent and underground hairdressers from London, the UK and Europe at 12 working stations, where guests can walk up, watch them create and ask questions as they go.
There is no stage, no competition, just hairdressers who love what they do and want a space to show it, with the finished looks showcased on models at 9pm. Among the artists featured will be Neevo from Salt Salon London, Ratbag from SANO Hair, Isabella from Peg Hair Salon, Phoebe Friend from Shag London, and Renay Roussou from bebop.
Where previous editions landed in the middle of the busy trade-show season, Hair Jam ’26 sits close to Halloween, giving industry pros the chance for a proper party, with an 80s VHS horror theme keeping guests on their toes through the night. Those attending are encouraged to dress up, and anyone who does gets a free drink at the bar.
“Hair Jam has always been about staying independent and giving underground talent a welcoming platform. The industry has become far too serious, and with the pressures of everyday life and social media, we could all use a night to take a step back and enjoy what we do,” said Pont Smith, founder of bebop.
“There’s no prize to win, just a chance to create, share what you know, and meet people who love hairdressing as much as you do. Most of all, it’s a reminder that being a hairdresser is meant to be fun.”
Kay, a member of bebop’s art team and one of the salon’s colour educators, organised and hosts the night.
“Women make up most of this industry, but you wouldn’t always know it from who gets put on stage, and non-binary artists get even less of a look-in,” said Kay. “This year’s Hair Jam is about making room for people to come through on their own terms, with no egos and no hierarchy, just brilliant work.”
For those who dare, there will also be Tarot readings form Tora Rose, and for everyone else there will be music throughout the night from WEASEL, as well as a fully stocked bar and a limited number of Maria Nila goody bags.
Entry is free and open to the industry. Space is limited, so guests are advised to arrive early, particularly if they want a goody bag.