The moment music fans across the North East have been waiting for is finally here! BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend is officially heading to Sunderland’s Herrington Country Park for a massive three-day festival from Friday, May 22nd to Sunday, May 24th, 2026. This is the biggest event on the Radio 1 calendar, and it’s bringing some of the world’s hottest artists to our doorstep.
The Lineup So Far…
The first wave of artists has been announced, and it’s already shaping up to be legendary. The Friday night will be a dance music extravaganza, with headliners Fatboy Slim and Sonny Fodera taking to the main stage. They’ll be joined by the incredible FISHER, Clementine Douglas, and MK. Plus, the dance party continues with Arielle Free, Charlie Hedges, Danny Howard, Ewan McVicar, horsegirL, L.P. Rhythm, Marlon Hoffstadt, Notion, and Sarah Story.
And that’s just for starters! The full lineups for Saturday and Sunday are set to be announced on Monday, March 9th, and we’re expecting some huge names. Keep your ears glued to Radio 1 for the latest updates!
Your Festival Essentials Guide
A weekend of music, fun, and (hopefully) sun awaits! To make sure you have the best time possible, we’ve put together a list of festival essentials.
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Stay Powered Up: You’ll be snapping pics, recording videos, and trying to find your friends all weekend. Don’t let a dead battery ruin the fun. A reliable Portable Power Bank is an absolute must-have.
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Embrace the British Weather: We’re all hoping for glorious sunshine, but let’s be realistic – this is Britain! A lightweight Rain Poncho will be your best friend if the heavens open.
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Get Your Glitter On: It’s not a festival without a bit of sparkle! Biodegradable Festival Glitter is the way to go to keep things eco-friendly while you shine.
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Take a Load Off: All that dancing can be tiring! A foldable Camping Chair is perfect for taking a break between sets and soaking up the atmosphere.
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Happy Feet: You’ll be on your feet all day, so comfortable footwear is key. A trusty pair of Wellies will see you through muddy patches and keep your feet dry.
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Soak Up the Sun (Safely!): When the sun does decide to make an appearance, make sure you’re protected. High-factor Sunscreen is essential to avoid a nasty burn.
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Keep Your Valuables Safe: Keep your phone, wallet, and keys secure and easily accessible with a stylish Fanny Pack. It’s the ultimate hands-free festival accessory.
See You There!
Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland is set to be an unforgettable experience. With a stellar lineup and an incredible atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to kick off the summer. So, get your tickets, grab your festival essentials, and we’ll see you at Herrington Country Park in May