Radio 1 Big Weekend 2026: Festival in Sunderland from May 22-24

Updated 18 November 2025 05:37 PM

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Radio 1 Big Weekend 2026: Festival in Sunderland from May 22-24

Radio 1 Big Weekend 2026

Radio 1 Big Weekend 2026 is set for Sunderland. The event will run at Herrington Country Park. Dates are 22 to 24 of May. This is one of the biggest music festivals from BBC Radio 1 every year. It brings both major stars and new artists to the stage. The last time the festival came to Sunderland was two thousand five. The city will once again get a lot of attention this year with the festival returning.​

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Fans expect big performances. Past lineups had names like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Billie Eilish, The 1975, and Sam Fender. The line up for twenty twenty six is not yet released. BBC Radio 1 will announce the acts, ticket details, and stage schedule closer to the event. The format is a multi stage event. Crowds can move between stages for headline acts and smaller shows. Some stages focus on dance, new music, or local talent. Fans get a chance to see global artists and new stars at one event.​

The team at BBC Radio 1 plans Big Weekend to launch the UK festival season. Over eighty thousand people will attend across the three days. Some tickets are reserved for local people, so Sunderland fans get a fair chance to go. BBC works with Sunderland City Council to make sure the event stays safe, welcoming, and easy to get to. The festival usually brings a big boost for the local economy. Shops, hotels, and taxis get busy. Local musicians and creatives benefit too. Many local volunteers take part in running the weekend.​

BBC Radio 1 broadcasts most of the weekend live. People who can’t go in person can watch or listen on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the main channel. Coverage will include interviews, backstage clips, and live performances. The BBC wants fans from every part of the country to feel part of the weekend. Social media channels will post updates, set times, interviews and short clips. The aim is to give everyone access to the festival spirit even if they can’t be at the park.​

The news about Sunderland as host was revealed on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show with Greg James. Greg James is a key face and voice for the festival. More main hosts from Radio 1 will be named soon. There will be several presenters on stage and on air. The event will be run by BBC with help from the city’s council and local partners. Final announcements on the full lineup, main hosts, stage times, and ticket sale dates will come in early two thousand twenty six. Keep an eye on BBC’s website and social channels for details.​

This year’s festival will bring new music, fresh performances, and a buzz to Sunderland. It will be a major weekend for fans and the city. Everyone will be ready for three days of live music, celebration, and community in May.

Disclaimer:

The full lineup, ticket details, and schedule for Radio 1 Big Weekend 2026 will be announced closer to the event. Keep an eye on BBC’s official website and social channels for the latest updates.

Tags: radio 1 big weekend, radio 1, bbc radio 1 big weekend 2026, radio 1 big weekend tickets