Get ready for a weekend of unforgettable music, because Radio 2 in the Park is coming to Hylands Park in Chelmsford, Essex, from September 5 to 7, 2025! This flagship BBC Radio 2 festival promises three days of stellar performances, vibrant energy, and a celebration of some of the world’s most beloved artists. Announced on The Scott Mills Breakfast Show, the event has already sparked excitement with its confirmed location and a line-up reveal set for today, June 3, 2025. As Essex prepares to host this massive music festival, here’s everything you need to know about what’s shaping up to be the UK’s biggest party of the year.
Why Radio 2 in the Park Matters
This annual festival has become a cornerstone for music lovers who crave live performances without the chaos of multi-day camping festivals. Radio 2 in the Park delivers a curated experience, blending iconic acts with Radio 2’s signature DJ sets. In 2023, Leicester’s Victoria Park saw Kylie Minogue and Tears for Fears light up the stage. Last year, Preston’s Moor Park hosted Sting and Pet Shop Boys, drawing thousands of fans. Now, Chelmsford’s Hylands Park, a veteran of festivals like V Festival and Creamfields South, steps into the spotlight. The event’s move to Essex signals a fresh chapter, with 30% of tickets reserved for local residents, ensuring the community gets a front-row seat.
Line-Up Buzz for Radio 2 in the Park
The artist line-up, set to be unveiled today between 6:30 and 9:30 a.m. on The Scott Mills Breakfast Show, has fans on edge. Speculation is rife about who might grace the stage, with names like Olly Murs, an Essex native, floating around as a potential headliner. Past festivals featured a mix of pop legends and contemporary stars, so expect a diverse roster. The Friday night DJ party, a hit from last year’s Preston event, returns to kick things off with Radio 2 presenters like Rylan Clark and Scott Mills spinning tracks. This pre-party sets the tone for a weekend packed with live music, broadcast across Radio 2, BBC Sounds, and iPlayer.
| Day | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Friday, Sept 5 | DJ party with Radio 2 presenters |
| Saturday, Sept 6 | Main stage performances, live broadcasts |
| Sunday, Sept 7 | Headlining acts, festival highlights on iPlayer |
Chelmsford’s Moment to Shine
Hylands Park, just outside Chelmsford, is no stranger to massive music events, but Radio 2 in the Park elevates its status as a top-tier destination. The park’s sprawling green spaces and historic Hylands House provide a stunning backdrop for the festival. Local leaders, including Chelmsford City Council’s Stephen Robinson, are thrilled, noting the economic boost and global attention the event will bring. With thousands of fans expected, local businesses are gearing up for a busy weekend. Rylan Clark, an Essex local, summed it up best: “Essex knows how to party.” His enthusiasm, shared on air alongside presenter Ellie Taylor, has locals buzzing.
What to Expect from the 2025 Festival
This year’s Radio 2 in the Park spans three days, a shift from its earlier single-day format in Hyde Park. The extended schedule means more music, more DJ sets, and more chances to soak in the festival vibe. Tickets go on sale June 4, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. through Ticketmaster, and fans are urged to register for accounts now to secure spots. The event will feature family-friendly amenities, like baby-changing facilities and designated family entrances, ensuring accessibility for all. With live broadcasts on Radio 2 and streaming on BBC Sounds and iPlayer, even those who can’t attend can join the fun from home.
A Legacy of Unforgettable Moments
Since its inception in 2011 as Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park, this festival has delivered iconic performances. From Take That in 2017 to Westlife in 2019, it’s a stage where music history unfolds. The 2025 edition in Chelmsford promises to continue this legacy, blending nostalgia with fresh talent. Whether you’re dancing to a DJ set or singing along to a headliner, Radio 2 in the Park creates memories that last. With the line-up announcement imminent, the anticipation is palpable, and Chelmsford is ready to welcome fans for an epic celebration.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Radio 2 in the Park 2025! Tune into The Scott Mills Breakfast Show today for the line-up reveal, and grab your tickets tomorrow at bbc.co.uk/radio2inthepark. Join thousands of music lovers in Hylands Park for a weekend of pure joy.