BBC RADIO 1 BIG WEEKEND RETURNS TO THE NORTH WITH MASSIVE MAY LINE-UP

Sunderland is set to become the official centre of the musical universe this May as BBC Radio 1 has pulled out all the stops for its flagship Big Weekend live music festival.

Bringing a star-studded roster of international icons and breaking talent to Herrington Country Park from Friday 22 May to Sunday 24 May, over 100,000 fans expected to descend on the city, marking the official start of the UK festival season. Providing a massive economic boost to the Northeast, the weekend will host some of the biggest names in pop, dance, and indie, alongside some of the most exciting emerging talent on offer.

The weekend will be split into three distinct vibes, ensuring there is something for every type of music lover. On Friday 22nd May, The Ultimate Dance Party kicks off the excitement with a high energy dance marathon. This 18+ event will feature legendary DJ Fatboy Slim and house heavyweight Sonny Fodera at the top of the bill with global sensations FISHER, MK, and the powerhouse vocals of Clementine Douglas claiming the main stage earlier on.

Saturday 23rd May will shift gears into a pop and alternative spectacular. Global superstar Zara Larsson and Louis Tomlinson lead the line-up, alongside the pop angel Ellie Goulding and rock favorites Nothing But Thieves. Not only that, but fans can also catch critically acclaimed sets from Mitski, James Blake, and the high-energy trio MUNA.

The weekend closes with a soulful, hit-heavy line-up on Sunday 24th May. Welcoming another One Direction alum, Niall Horan alongside Grammy/Brit winning star Olivia Dean, they will be supported by the likes of Dermot Kennedy, CMAT and Kehlani And for those looking for the “next big thing” you have been spoilt by choice too with Jorja Smith, Maisie Peters, FLO, and the Mercury Prize-winning Ezra Collective also bringing the energy to Sunday’s line-up.

To secure your spot at Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2026, it is essential to note the varying entry requirements and pricing for the three-day event.

Friday’s Dance Party is strictly an 18+ event with tickets priced at £34.50 and is currently on sale.

In contrast, Saturday and Sunday are open to all ages (with restrictions for under 18s) at a price of £44.50, with those tickets set to drop this Wednesday 11th March at 5pm.

True to the festival’s “Local First” commitment, the majority of these tickets are reserved for Sunderland and NECA region residents to ensure the community remains at the heart of the celebration.

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Anne Kelly

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