BBC
Music enthusiasts continued to fill Sunderland's Herrington Country Park for the concluding day of Radio 1's Big Weekend.
The atmosphere was electrifying as thousands gathered to witness nearly 100 performances throughout the final day of this prominent music festival.
The line-up for the day included notable acts such as CMAT, Niall Horan, Myles Smith, and Ezra Collective, as attendees capitalized on the last opportunities for live music, warm sunshine, and vibrant entertainment.
Capping off the weekend's festivities will be Olivia Dean, who is set to deliver her debut UK festival headline performance at 20:45 BST. Her highly anticipated appearance will mark a significant finale for one of the city’s most exciting music events in recent history.
Taking to the main stage first, DJ Maia Beth from Washington energized the crowd with a set featuring "happy anthems" including The Killers' "Somebody Told Me" and Rihanna's "We Found Love."
Sporting a Newcastle football shirt, she received the loudest cheer of the morning when she played Sam Fender's "That Sound."
Kiera, 23, traveled from Darlington with her friend Olivia for this final day of festivities. She expressed excitement for the performances of Olivia Dean and Jorja Smith, noting a wish for more events in the North East.
Sam Fender fans Sarah and Joe, both 20, made the journey from Dudley in the West Midlands by coach. Joe shared, "We're manifesting Sam Fender comes out with Olivia Dean," while Sarah added, "We came yesterday and loved Louis Tomlinson; I've seen him five times this year, he was great yesterday. I'm also a big fan of Niall Horan, so I'm looking forward to his set too."
Horan expressed his nerves about performing his first gig in over a year and a half but credited the audience for their support. "You're a lovely, hospitable, welcoming crowd," he remarked. "This is my kind of crowd."
Myles Smith, hailing from Luton, brought a lively mix of US hoedown-inspired anthems to the stage, with hit songs such as "Nice To Meet You" and "We Can Dance." He engaged with fans in the crowd during "Gold," capturing selfies and exchanging high fives with frontline attendees. "I need to go back to the gym," he remarked, catching his breath after the energetic performance.
In addition to the headline acts, the weekend showcased an extensive array of live music and DJ sets across three stages, complemented by a variety of food and drink options. BBC Music correspondent Mark Savage noted the diligence of security personnel at the main stage, who assisted in distributing water to the audience amidst the warm weather.
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