The BBC Big Weekend is a major UK music festival organized by BBC Radio 1 each year. It features some of the biggest names in music and attracts around 50,000 fans over a weekend. With tickets selling out extremely quickly each year, it can be difficult to get your hands on them. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to buy BBC Big Weekend tickets, from registration to securing your spot at the festival.
When and where is BBC Big Weekend held?
The BBC Big Weekend is held over one weekend in May each year. The location changes annually, with previous festivals held in cities like Hull, Exeter, and Perth. The festival features 4 stages with over 50 acts performing. Some of the biggest names in music have performed at Big Weekend including Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, Calvin Harris, and Coldplay.
For 2023, the BBC Big Weekend will take place in Leicester on the 27th-28th May. The festival will be held at Victoria Park in the heart of the city. Leicester promises an electric atmosphere over the bank holiday weekend.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for BBC Big Weekend 2023 will go on sale in early 2023, likely around February/March. The specific ticket sale date is usually announced about 2 months in advance on the BBC Radio 1 website and social media pages.
Given the massive popularity of the festival, tickets sell out extremely fast. Over 80,000 fans tried to buy tickets in 2019 with them all selling out in just over an hour! So you need to be prepared and ready to buy when they go on sale.
The key is to register your interest early via the BBC Radio 1 website. This will allow you to get exclusive pre-sale access before the general public. Pre-sale tickets give you the best chance of securing a spot.
How to register for pre-sale tickets
Here are the steps to register for pre-sale BBC Big Weekend tickets:
1. Go to the BBC Radio 1 website in January/February 2023. Look for the BBC Big Weekend page and sign up link.
2. You will need to register with your name, email address and postcode. Make sure the details you provide are accurate.
3. After registering, you will be emailed closer to the pre-sale date with a unique access code and link to buy pre-sale tickets. This code can only be used once.
4. When pre-sale launches, visit the ticket page and enter your access code when prompted. Have your payment details ready too.
5. Select your preferred number of tickets, usually a limit of 4 per person.
6. Choose your tickets carefully as they cannot be exchanged or refunded. Tickets will sell out fast so you need to act quick.
7. If you secure tickets, they will be emailed to you. Pre-sale usually takes place 1-2 days before general sale.
Can I buy VIP tickets?
Yes, limited VIP tickets are available for the BBC Big Weekend giving access to special VIP areas. These tickets are more expensive but get you:
– Exclusive VIP bar with drinks and snacks
– Premium viewing areas to see the stage
– Private bathrooms and entrance
– Big Weekend merchandise gift
– VIP lanyard and laminate
The process to buy VIP tickets is the same as standard tickets. You need to register ahead of time on the BBC Radio 1 website and get a pre-sale access code. VIP tickets are likely to sell out even faster due to very limited availability.
How much do BBC Big Weekend tickets cost?
Ticket prices can vary year to year, but as a guide, previous tickets costs were:
– Standard Weekend Ticket – £18 + fees
– VIP Weekend Ticket – £50 + fees
– Standard Day Ticket – £8.50 + fees
– VIP Day Ticket – £35 + fees
There are usually no single day tickets, only full weekend tickets. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Ticket prices are not announced until closer to sale dates.
Can I buy tickets on general sale?
If you miss out on pre-sale tickets, there is still a chance to buy during general sale. This opens a few days after pre-sale to the public. Tens of thousands of people will be trying to buy tickets, so general sale can sell out in minutes.
Here’s what to do when general sale opens:
– Get online just before sale opens and refresh repeatedly
– Have your payment details ready as tickets are first come, first served
– Enter the queue system which will hold your place in line
– Act fast when you reach the front – checkout quickly before tickets disappear
– Only buy tickets from official outlets like Ticketmaster to avoid scams
– Be patient and keep trying – further releases do happen if tickets get declined
While demanding, many people do succeed in buying during general sale if well prepared. Don’t give up!
Can I resell unused tickets?
Tickets for BBC Big Weekend are non-transferrable and cannot be resold or exchanged. Your name is printed on each ticket and ID is checked on entry. Any tickets being resold can be cancelled without refund.
Instead, if you can no longer attend, you can return unused tickets prior to the event for a refund from the official ticketing service. Read the terms carefully when purchasing.
You should avoid using secondary ticketing sites under any circumstances. Not only is reselling illegal, but you risk buying invalid or fraudulent tickets.
Top tips for buying tickets
Here are some top tips for securing your BBC Big Weekend tickets:
– Register for pre-sale way in advance – this is critical to access early tickets
– Be ready on your device just before the sales open and keep refreshing
– Have your payment details saved and login details handy – speed is key
– Keep trying if tickets initially sell out – further releases will happen
– Use the official BBC Radio 1 site and follow their social media for updates
– Go for weekend tickets if possible – more chance of securing a spot
– Avoid reseller sites – buy only from official ticket agents
– Act fast but double check your order before purchasing
– Only buy what you can afford – set yourself a budget beforehand
Who will be performing at BBC Big Weekend 2023?
The 2023 lineup for BBC Big Weekend will be announced in April 2023, around a month before the festival. Over 50 music acts are booked, showcasing pop, rock, indie, hip hop and dance.
BBC Radio 1 will exclusively reveal the lineup across radio and social media along with the stage splits and daily schedule. There are usually around 12-15 acts performing per stage each day.
Looking at previous Big Weekends can give a flavor of the type of artists that appear. Big names in 2022 included Harry Styles, Calvin Harris, Ed Sheeran, Aitch, Yungblud and Becky Hill.
Headliners and sub-headliners are normally chart toppers announced in the weeks before the festival. Keep listening to Radio 1 and following their social channels for the 2023 artist announcements.
What are the age restrictions?
The minimum age to attend BBC Big Weekend is 14 years old. However, under 16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or over with a valid ticket for the same day.
Children aged 3 years and under can attend for free but must be with a paying, supervising adult at all times and will not be permitted in the standing arena. Proof of children’s ages may be requested during entry.
The standing arena is exclusively for attendees aged 14 and over. Under 14s are restricted to the seated area for safety reasons. Any parents with under 14s must ensure they only access the seated section.
All attendees regardless of age must have a ticket to enter the festival. Make sure any minors register for tickets under their own name and bring ID to verify their age on the day.
Is there disabled access at BBC Big Weekend?
BBC Big Weekend aims to be accessible and inclusive for all attendees. There are a number of facilities in place for disabled access:
– Dedicated viewing platforms around each stage
– British Sign Language performers on the screens
– Free personal assistant tickets
– Accessible toilets and entrances
– Maximum 2 extra free tickets for wheelchair users
Make sure to outline any access requirements when registering for tickets online. You can email [email protected] for specific queries on facilities.
Guide dogs are permitted but no other pets or animals are allowed on site. Attendees are advised to bring medication, food for dietary needs and any other essentials for the day.
Where to stay for BBC Big Weekend
Leicester has a wide range of accommodation options for staying over during BBC Big Weekend including:
Hotels:
Name | Location | Price |
---|---|---|
Premier Inn Leicester City Centre | 0.5 miles to Victoria Park | From £65 per night |
Travelodge Leicester Central | 1 mile to Victoria Park | From £29 per night |
Holiday Inn Express Leicester City | 0.9 miles to Victoria Park | From £60 per night |
Hostels:
Name | Location | Price |
---|---|---|
Leicester Backpackers Hostel | 1.5 miles to Victoria Park | From £16 per night |
The Globe Backpackers | 0.6 miles to Victoria Park | From £18 per night |
Airbnb apartments and rooms are also available from around £30-50 per night. Book accommodation early to secure the best rates. Hotels near the Victoria Park will fill up fast.
Consider staying outside Leicester too e.g. Loughborough, Hinckley, Lutterworth. These are commutable by local trains and buses.
How to get to BBC Big Weekend
Victoria Park in Leicester city centre is conveniently located near transport links.
By train:
– Leicester train station is 1 mile from Victoria Park
– Direct trains from cities like London, Birmingham and Manchester
– Book trains early as they will be busier over the festival weekend
By coach:
– National Express coaches stop at St Margaret’s Bus Station, 1 mile away
– Direct coaches from Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and more
By car:
– Use designated festival parking areas as city parking is limited
– Consider carpooling to save money on fuel and parking
– Allow extra time for traffic delays approaching Leicester
By local bus:
– First Bus provides regular services across Leicester
– Multiple buses stop near Victoria Park such as First Bus 21, 22, 153
Plan your journeys in advance and check for engineering works or delays. Leave plenty of time when travelling to ensure you arrive before the first acts.
What to take to BBC Big Weekend
To make sure you have the best possible time at BBC Big Weekend, here are some essentials to pack:
– Tickets – Printed or on your phone. Have your ID ready too
– Cash and payment card – For food, drink and merchandise
– Comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet all day
– Weatherproof jacket – Bring layers for all conditions
– Refillable water bottle – To stay hydrated in the sun
– Portable charger + cables – For keeping your phone powered
– Suntan lotion and hat – Sun safety is key
– Small bag or backpack – To hold your personal items
– Earplugs or headphones – For protecting your hearing
– Medications/first aid kit – For any pre-existing conditions
– Face mask – Recommended as an additional COVID safety measure
– Hand sanitizer and wipes – For good hygiene
There are food, drink and toilet facilities available on site but bringing some snacks and supplies can be handy. Avoid bringing valuables, chairs, selfie sticks, professional cameras or alcohol.
BBC Big Weekend FAQs
What are the opening times?
BBC Big Weekend runs from approximately 11am to 11pm on both the Saturday and Sunday. Check the website and social media for the exact opening times.
Can I bring food and drink?
You can bring some snacks and soft drinks but no alcohol, glass, cans, disposable BBQs, tables or camping equipment. There are bars and food stalls on site.
Are there cash machines at the festival?
Yes, there are ATMs available but expect long queues. Bringing enough cash and cards to cover your needs is advised.
What items are banned from the festival?
Strictly no drugs, alcohol, weapons, professional cameras, camping chairs, selfie sticks, flares, portable speakers or pets (apart from assistance dogs).
Can I leave and re-enter the festival?
No re-entry is permitted once you leave the festival site.
Are there lockers to store belongings?
There are no storage lockers on site. Travel light or use the cloakroom if provided.
Can I get a refund if I can no longer attend?
If you can’t go, you can get a refund by returning tickets before the event. See the point of sale terms.
Conclusion
Getting tickets to BBC Big Weekend takes planning, but with an organized approach your chances of securing a spot are high. Register early for pre-sale, have your details ready for general sale, and follow all the latest ticket updates. With the tips provided, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the incredible music and atmosphere at Britain’s biggest radio festival.