The excitement is palpable as the Reading and Leeds Festivals gear up for their 2025 lineup announcement. This year, the festivals, which span from August 21 to August 24, are set to feature a stellar array of headliners and diverse acts, marking significant milestones for some artists. Among the headliners are US pop sensation Chappell Roan, well-known rapper Travis Scott, Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, and the iconic band Bring Me the Horizon. This eclectic mix promises not only thrilling performances but also showcases the blend of genres aimed at captivating audiences.
Chappell Roan, who has skyrocketed to fame with hit singles like "Hot to Go" and her debut album "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess," is poised to perform at her largest UK shows to date. Her 2023 release has seen rising chart success, culminating in Grammy nominations, making her one of the most anticipated acts for the festivals. Melvin Benn, the Managing Director of Festival Republic, describes her as "an inspiring new pop star poised to define a generation,” setting the stage for what could be her most significant performance yet.
Travis Scott also returns to Reading and Leeds, headlining for the second time since 2018. Known for his explosive live performances and larger-than-life stage presence, Scott has recently enjoyed success with his album "Utopia," which reached number one on the UK charts. His involvement promises to be nothing short of spectacular, especially with his exclusive appearance set to draw significant crowds.
Hozier brings his powerful voice and poignant lyrics to the festival stage as he headlines for the first time. With his new album "Unreal Unearth" having topped charts and garnered extensive acclaim, Hozier's performance is expected to resonate deeply with fans. Following up on his past appearances at Reading and Leeds—including his breakout presence which later led to festival favorites, his arrival at the 2025 event marks another significant step in his career as he prepares to deliver what fans hope will be unforgettable.
Adding to the excitement, Bring Me the Horizon is returning for their first fully-fledged headline slot, promising to deliver the "greatest show of our careers” according to frontman Oli Sykes. Known for blending metalcore with electronic elements, they have been pivotal in shaping the sound of modern rock. Their recent work and performances, including surprise appearances from artists like Ed Sheeran, increase anticipation for their Reading and Leeds shows.
The diverse lineup doesn’t end with the headliners. Other confirmed acts include British indie stalwarts Bloc Party, pop sensation Becky Hill, and rap heavyweights such as AJ Tracey and Trippie Redd. Each artist brings their own unique flavor to the mix, ensuring there will be something for everyone throughout the festival weekend. Fans can also look forward to electric acts like DJ Sammy Virji, punk duo Soft Play, and the dynamic group Rudimental, guaranteeing high-energy performances across the board.
Tickets for these prestigious events go on general sale at 12 PM on December 9th and will be available through Ticketmaster and Live Nation. Given the headliners and the caliber of supporting acts, the demand is expected to be higher than ever. Festival organizers are gearing up for another soaring success, with preparations underway to accommodate the influx of fans eager to experience the music event of the summer next year.
Both festivals will take place simultaneously at Richfield Avenue, Reading, and Bramham Park, Leeds, with performances staggered across both venues. This year’s event also aims to maintain the tradition of celebrating diverse musical genres, pulling influences from rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic scenes, truly embodying the essence of the UK’s music culture.
With excitement building and more acts still to be announced, followers of the festival can hardly wait. The combination of first-time headliners and returning favorites promises to create moments of joy and memories worth cherishing. So, mark those calendars for the ticket sale date — the Reading and Leeds festivals are poised to be one of the premier music experiences of 2025.