How to watch Radio 1’s Big Weekend as the festival goes virtual

BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend is always a highlight of the summer music festival calendar and while it might not be taking place in person this year, there is still plenty of great music to enjoy virtually. 

The music festival, run by BBC Radio 1, has been taking place since the early 2000s, but last year’s show was forced to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with a smaller virtual event happening instead. 

This year’s show is also being performed virtually, with newly recorded sets from some artists and a celebration of some of the greatest Big Weekend performances from years past to be replayed. 

Ed Sheeran and Coldplay are set to headline this year’s Big Weekend with brand new performances recorded especially for this weekend’s show, as well as a jam-packed schedule of other stars. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2021. 

What time does Radio 1’s Big Weekend start?

Radio 1’s Big Weekend will take place across four days for the first time ever, kicking off at 6pm on Friday, May 28 and continuing until Monday, May 31. 

How to watch Radio 1’s Big Weekend online

Performances will be broadcast on BBC Radio 1 with full sets then available on BBC Sounds, as well as a selection from the weekend being available on Radio 1’s BBC iPlayer and YouTube channels. 

There will also be a special stream on BBC iPlayer featuring select performances and artist interviews from Saturday until Monday, as well as a highlights show hosted by Greg James on BBC iPlayer from Sunday.

Radio 1’s Big Weekend line up: From Ed Sheeran to Coldplay 

The main stage will see brand new performances from Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Jorja Smith, AJ Tracey, Royal Blood, Mabel Wolf Alice, Celeste, London Grammar and Anne-Marie. 

The dance stage will be headlined by Eric Prydz and also feature new sets from Bicep, Floorplan, Honey Dijon, Logic1000, Michael Bibi, Patrick Topping, Paul Woolford, Solomun and The Blessed Madonna. 

There will also be repeats of amazing sets from years past, including Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Harry Styles and more. 

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