High-spin states in ^124,125,126Xe have been populated in the reaction ⁸²Se (⁴⁸Ca, xn)^130-xXe and \gamma -ray coincidences were measured with the GAMMASPHERE spectrometer. Twelve new bands extending into the spin 50--60 {\mathchar h}region are identified in ¹²⁵Xe and ¹²⁶Xe and previously known rotational bands at low spins are confirmed and extended. Earlier known structures in ¹²⁴Xe are confirmed and a new band is observed. Irregular structures are identified at the top of the yrast and a side band in this nucleus. Configuration assignments for the different structures are suggested.

PACS numbers: 21.10.--k, 23.20.Lv, 27.60.+j