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Radio 1's Big Weekend Returns to Sunderland With Sun, Surprise Guests and Strong Crowds

Tens of thousands enjoyed warm weather, surprise guest sets and headline shows as organisers kept travel and safety measures in place.

Overview

  • The three‑day festival returned to Herrington Country Park for the first time since 2005, bringing a large local turnout and visible Pride in Wearside.
  • Radio 1 presenters and multiple photo galleries reported roughly 30,000 people inside the park on Saturday, with organisers maintaining entry rules, travel notices and on‑site safety measures for the weekend.
  • Fatboy Slim headlined the opening day and used the stage screens to urge fans to 'Put Your Phones Away Please' while also showing environmental and anti‑violence messages.
  • Several surprise guest moments punctuated the programme, including Patrick Topping joining Danny Howard, Fisher bringing Tones & I onstage, and Poppy Baskcomb appearing with Sonny Fodera.
  • Unusually hot, sunny conditions shaped the festival vibe and fashion, Zara Larsson delivered a strong Saturday headline set and Olivia Dean is due to close the weekend as organisers wrap up the final day.