Liverpool is ready to steal the spotlight yet again as BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend lands in the city from Friday, May 23, to Sunday, May 25, 2025. This iconic festival will bring over 100 acts to the heart of Merseyside, with global superstars, emerging talent, and everything in between performing across four jam-packed stages.
The first headliner announced? None other than Sam Fender, whose powerful anthems and unmistakable sound are guaranteed to set the city alight. Speaking about the event, Sam shared, “Excited to announce we’re coming to Liverpool for Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May. Thanks for inviting us – see you there!”
He won’t be alone. Joining him are Blossoms, Wet Leg, Myles Smith, and Lola Young, with more names yet to be revealed. Blossoms, who have recorded every one of their albums in Liverpool, called it a “special city close to our hearts,” making their appearance even more meaningful.
Liverpool + Big Weekend = Pure Magic
As someone who has a personal love for Liverpool – its charm, its wit, and its people – I know this Big Weekend is going to be something extraordinary. The city’s musical roots run deep, from The Beatles to its vibrant modern scene, and there’s no better crowd to soak up a festival atmosphere than Scousers.
This year’s festival will feature four stages: the Radio 1 Main Stage, Radio 1 New Music Stage, Radio 1 Dance Stage, and BBC Introducing. With around 100,000 fans expected to attend and countless incredible performances on the horizon, Liverpool is set to deliver an unforgettable start to the UK’s festival season.
But it’s not just about the music. Big Weekend is known for shining a spotlight on its host city, bringing in visitors, boosting the local economy, and reminding everyone what makes places like Liverpool so special. As Councillor Liam Robinson put it: “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 events add up to what is certain to be an incredible three days.”
What to Expect at Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025
Radio 1’s Big Weekend is no ordinary festival. It’s the UK’s ultimate festival kickoff, bringing together the biggest global artists and giving a platform to new and emerging talent. Whether it’s the crowd singing along to Sam Fender’s anthems or discovering your new favourite artist on the BBC Introducing stage, there’s something for everyone.
The festival will be broadcast live on Radio 1, with performances available on demand through BBC iPlayer and BBC Sounds. So, even if you’re not lucky enough to grab a ticket (which will sell out faster than a hot tray of Scouse), you can still soak up the vibes from wherever you are.
Radio 1 Breakfast Show host Greg James summed it up perfectly: “Finally… Radio 1 has come back to Liverpool! Everyone’s going to love the line-up, and it’ll be an amazing way to kick off festival season.”
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Weekend
Liverpool is known for its electric atmosphere, incredible music culture, and welcoming community, and BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 is the perfect way to celebrate everything this city has to offer. With more artists to be announced and tickets expected to fly out, this May is set to be one for the history books.
Whether you’re a local or travelling from further afield, one thing’s for sure: Liverpool is the place to be. I can’t wait to see the city light up with music, energy, and love. Let the countdown begin!
