The location for Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2026 has been announced as Herrington Country Park in Sunderland. Greg James revealed the news on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show this morning, confirming the station’s flagship event will take place from Friday, 22nd May to Sunday, 24th May 2026.
The festival is set to kick off the UK’s summer festival season, with around 80,000 music fans expected to attend over the three days. Approximately 100 acts will perform, ranging from the biggest names in music to new and emerging artists. The event has a rich history of bringing huge stars like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Sam Fender to locations that may not otherwise host such large-scale events.
Further information, including the full line-up, headliners, and ticketing details, will be announced on Radio 1 in the coming months. The BBC is working closely with Sunderland City Council to ensure the event is safe and inclusive for all attendees. The festival is known to provide a major boost to the local economy, with tickets typically selling out almost immediately each year.
Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, said: “Radio 1’s Big Weekend is one of the most anticipated moments in our calendar and we’re thrilled to be bringing it to the North East in 2026. I’m excited not only to bring some of the biggest names in music to the area, but also to provide a platform for new local talent to be heard across Radio 1.”
Radio 1 presenter Greg James also shared his excitement, stating: “Radio 1 is going back to the glorious North East! The best nights out by far. I started my radio career there, some of my favourite artists are from there and I can’t wait to be adopted as a Mackem next summer.”
Councillor Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, commented on the city’s readiness to host. “It’s brilliant to be hosting Radio 1’s Big Weekend. With our vibrant music scene, Music City status, and fantastic track record for hosting world class events, we can’t wait to welcome the Big Weekend to Sunderland,” he said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to show people who haven’t been to Sunderland, what a brilliant city it is and how much is happening here.”
For those unable to secure tickets, BBC Radio 1 will be broadcasting live from the festival site across the entire weekend. Full sets and highlights will also be made available live and on demand through Radio 1’s iPlayer channel and on BBC Sounds.