This morning (January 28), Greg James on Radio 1 Breakfast Show revealed huge news about the radio station’s massive annual music fest. Not only did James name where Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 will be held, but he also confirmed the first bunch of acts – featuring rocker-of-the-moment Sam Fender.
Radio 1’s Big Weekend, for those not in-the-know, is the radio station’s flagship live music event. It’s known for bringing the planet’s biggest musicians to UK cities that don’t normally get such superstar gigs. In the past the fest has brought Taylor Swift to Norwich, Stormzy to Exeter and the 1975 to Dundee, among many other memorable sets. Last year saw Coldplay and Sabrina Carpenter play Luton.
This year Radio 1’s Big Weekend isn’t being held anywhere particularly surprising – in fact, it’s one of the UK’s most legendary music cities. Liverpool will host the event this year.
Here’s everything else you need to know, from the rest of the lineup to how to get tickets
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When and where is Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025?
The Big Weekend this year will be held in Liverpool’s Sefton Park from Friday May 23 to Sunday May 25.
Who’s on the lineup so far?
Fresh from a quick arena tour in December and before he sets off on several massive stadium shows, Sam Fender will play the festival.
Also confirmed so far are Blossoms, Lola Young, Myles Smith and Wet Leg.
The rest of the lineup will be announced in the coming months.
How to buy tickets
Ticket info is TBC. Last year tickets came out in late March – and, as usual, priority was given to locals. Locals of certain postcodes tend to get a first chance to buy, followed by the general public.
Last year, tickets for Radio 1’s Big Weekend cost £29.50 plus a £4.50 booking fee, and there was a limit of two tickets per person, per day.
What’s been said about the event?
About his headline slot, Sam Fender said: ‘Excited to announce we’re coming to Liverpool for Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May. Thanks for inviting us - see you there!’
Aled Haydn Jones, head of Radio 1, said: ‘We’re thrilled to bring Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 to Liverpool. Liverpool’s vibrant music scene and rich history make it the perfect setting for this iconic event. With incredible artists already announced and more to be announced in the coming months, it’s set to be an unmissable weekend.’
Councillor Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: ‘Radio 1’s Big Weekend has found the perfect home this year in Liverpool. Our music, our audiences and our history of delivering world class major events add up to what is certain to be an incredible three days this May.’
Stay tuned for more details on the lineup and tickets.
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