The wait is finally over as the lineup for Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland has officially been revealed, and it is even bigger than many were expecting. After weeks of rumours and speculation, fans can now see the full picture and it is safe to say there is something for everyone across the weekend.

Friday is all about the dance takeover, led by headline sets from Fatboy Slim, Fisher MK and Sonny Fodera. It is shaping up to be a huge opening night packed with high energy sets and massive drops. They will be joined by a wider lineup of DJs and dance acts, including names like Arielle Free and Danny Howard, alongside emerging talent across the New Music and Introducing stages.

Saturday brings a shift in sound, with Zara Larsson taking on headline duties. She is joined by a seriously strong main stage lineup featuring Ellie Goulding, Louis Tomlinson and Lola Young.

Beyond the main stage, there is plenty to explore. The New Music Stage is packed with artists who aren’t to be missed, including James Blake, Rachel Chinouriri and Mitski. Meanwhile, the BBC Introducing stage continues its tradition of spotlighting rising and local talent, with a mix of names from across the UK and the North East.

Sunday then rounds things off with Olivia Dean headlining, bringing a more soulful, laid back close to the weekend. She is joined on the main stage by a range of artists including Dermot Kennedy, CMAT and Myles Smith, showing off the diversity that Big Weekend is known for.

Across all three days, the lineup stretches far beyond just the headliners. From Maisie Peters and Holly Humberstone to FLO and Ezra Collective, there is a real mix of established names and future stars across multiple stages.

What makes this year’s lineup stand out is just how well it reflects the current sound of Radio 1. There is a strong dance focus to kick things off, followed by a blend of pop, indie and alternative acts, before closing on a more soulful note. It is the kind of balance that keeps fans coming back year after year.

With the festival set to take over Herrington Country Park this May and tens of thousands expected to attend, Sunderland is gearing up for a huge weekend. If you have been waiting for the lineup to drop, now is the time to start planning who you want to see.

Herrington Country Park

And if you want to get yourself in the mood, you can catch all the best bits from last year here.

The Sunday has already sold out, but there are still tickets up for grabs for Friday and Saturday. Everything you need to know about tickets can be found here.

One thing is certain. With this lineup now out in the open, Radio 1’s Big Weekend is set to deliver another unforgettable few days of music.