Sunderland Secures BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend for 2026

Local TV

Sunderland is set to take centre stage next year as BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend lands in the city from the 22nd to the 24th of May 2026. Around one hundred acts , from global stars to breakthrough artists will perform across three days.

Transcript

00:00Sunderland has been confirmed as the host city for BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend 2026, taking place in May.

00:07The iconic festival, which draws tens of thousands of music fans, is expected to welcome around 80,000 people over the course of the weekend,

00:15with roughly 100 acts performing across multiple stages.

00:19Leaders in Sunderland are celebrating the announcement.

00:22Councillor Michael Morday said that securing Big Weekend is fantastic news, especially for our young people,

00:28and emphasises the opportunity to showcase Sunderland's vibrant energy, diversity and ambition.

00:34North East Mayor Kim McGuinness added that this is about more than just music.

00:38It's a chance to spotlight the creative industries in the region, and reflects the North East's growing reputation as a cultural powerhouse.

00:47The last time Sunderland hosted Radio 1's Big Weekend was in May 2005, more than 20 years ago, making this a landmark return for the city.

00:56While the 2026 Bull line-up is yet to be announced, fans can look back at some of the big names who played the 2025 edition in Liverpool.

01:05Last year's line-up featured headliners such as Tom Grennan, Sam Fender and Rumpfaddon's sons.

01:11Other acts included indie favourites like Biffy Clyro, Blossoms and Wolf Alice,

01:16as well as rising stars including Wetleg, Miles Smith, Lola Young and dancing names such as H and AJ Tracy.

01:23The council says the event is expected to give a major boost to Sunderland's economy,

01:28from local businesses to hospitality and transport, while putting the city firmly on the map as a city of events.

01:35BBC Radio 1 will be working closely with Sunderland City Council and the North East Combined Authority

01:40to curate a fantastic experience for all attendees.

01:43BBC Radio 1 will end up

02:04BBC Radio 1 will end up

02:05Russell Hanson

02:06BBC Radio 1 will end up

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