Preston ready to welcome BBC Radio 2 in the Park

Preston is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend as it prepares to host BBC Radio 2 in the Park from Friday 6 September to Sunday 8 September at the historic Moor Park.

Anticipation has been building since the event's announcement in April, with thousands expected to travel to the city for a weekend of spectacular live performances. 

The three-day event will feature a star-studded lineup of some of the world's most beloved pop icons, including Sting, Pet Shop Boys, and Sugababes. 

Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council, expressed his enthusiasm: 

"We're ready, and we can't wait. The stage is set for Preston to play host to its largest live event in a long time. Having BBC Radio 2 in the Park right here at Moor Park is a truly monumental occasion for our city. 

All eyes are on us, and I have no doubt that Preston will shine brightly as we welcome everyone to this weekend's incredible event. I hope everyone soaks up the amazing music, the vibrant atmosphere, and of course, the unforgettable charm of Preston!" 

Councillor Anna Hindle, Cabinet Member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council said:  

"More than 60,000 will descend on Preston this weekend, putting a spotlight on our amazing city.  

 

This event has given us the platform to showcase that our arts and culture scene is alive with a thriving event portfolio for people enjoy.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend and hope that lots of visitors return to our fabulous city to experience more of our culture throughout the year."   

The event will take place in Moor Park, a Grade II listed park and the oldest and largest parkland in the city. Moor Park is no stranger to hosting BBC events, having welcomed BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend back in 2007. 

Local business owners are also getting into the spirit of the event. Kelly, owner of Rosemary on the Park café, has revamped her menu with a special Radio 2-themed BBQ selection, offering dishes such as the 'Dermot's Dirty Dog' and the 'Vernon 'Big Lad' Burger' to commemorate the occasion. 

Kelly said: 

"This is a massive event for Preston and we're so excited to welcome people to Moor Park and to our café.

 

Our BBC Radio 2 BBQ selection menu will be available all weekend and we're really hoping one of the DJs will stop by to try their own dish. DJ Spoony told me on air that he loves apple crumble so it would be fantastic if he could sample ours." 

Rosemary on the Park Café will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am till late.  

BBC Radio 2 has already made its presence felt in Preston this week, with stages set up in Moor Park and DJ Richie seen touring the city on a road sweeper today (Thursday), host Royal Preston Hospital's radio and making an appearance at the New Continental's Laughienda. Jo Whiley has also brought her show to The Ferret, a much-loved local venue, building excitement ahead of the main event. 

Event line up and tickets

To find out who will be performing and how to buy tickets see BBC Radio 2 in the Park 2024.

Already got tickets? Then take a look at our Radio 2 in the Park - things you need to know.