Here’s the curveball: Pete Tong is bringing his Ibiza Classics orchestra. That’s right—a classical orchestra playing dance music. Imagine a string section trying to play “Levels” by Avicii with a straight face. It’s like if Beethoven took ecstasy and discovered strobe lights. It’s going to be either transcendent or a glorious train wreck. Probably both.
And let’s not forget the Boomtown Rats. Yes, they’re still a thing. Bob Geldof will probably do a dramatic reading of a news headline before launching into “I Don’t Like Mondays.” He’s 72, still angry, and still wearing leather jackets. Respect.
The Forgotten Gem: A DJ Who Plays Vinyl in a Tent
There’s also a secret little stage (not really secret, it’s on the map) where Jo Whiley will be playing obscure tracks from 1987. She’s the cool aunt who knows about that one band from Belgium that only released one single. She’ll make you feel cultured while you’re standing in mud.
Pro tip: if you see a queue forming near a tent with tea towels hanging on it, that’s probably the BBC Radio 2 Folk Hour showcase. Don’t knock it. Folk music is the house music of people who own wellies and a dog named Dave.
BBC Radio 2 - Radio 2 in the Park, 2026 - Next on
