Reading’s U.S. debut will feature a set from Eminem – his only American concert so for this year. Rock upstarts Linkin Park and versatile hardcore rapper Xzibit are on the bill and more acts will be added soon.

The promoters have promised a very special guest will be announced in the coming weeks.

The outdoor festival began more than a decade ago in Reading, England, and has since expanded to sites in Leeds and Glasgow, Scotland. The festival is a mix of alternative, rock and hip-hop artists, all convening for one day on two stages.

This year’s festival in Reading (August 24-26) has sold-out and the other U.K sites are heading that direction. Some of this year’s performers include System Of A Down, Travis, Green Day, P.J. Harvey, Rancid, Staind, Eminem, and Marilyn Manson.

The festival is put on by U.K.-based concert promoter Mean Fiddler Organization. In addition to the Reading events, MFO is responsible for the Gig on the Green and Fleadh fests, and the Homelands dance extravaganza.

Plans are already under way to expand Reading USA 2002 to include more cities.