Sunderland Scores Hosting Duties for Radio 1's Massive 2026 Music Fest

In November 2025, the BBC announced that Radio 1's flagship music festival, the Big Weekend, will be held in Sunderland, North East England, from May 22-24, 2026. This prestigious event, which typically features a lineup of top UK and international artists, is one of the most anticipated moments in the music calendar.

The decision to host the festival in Sunderland is seen as a major coup for the city, which has a vibrant local music scene and has previously been recognized as a "Music City." Sunderland City Council is working closely with the BBC to ensure the event is a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for the expected 80,000 attendees.

Radio 1's Head of Station, Aled Haydn Jones, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to not only bring some of the biggest names in music to the North East, but also to provide a platform for new local talent to be heard across the station's national audience. This sentiment was echoed by Sunderland's Council Leader, who believes the event will bring significant benefits to the city, from increased visitor numbers and spending to creating a buzz for residents and visitors alike.