A Monumental return: Sunderland music festival announces next wave of artists
Sunderland’s monumental one-day music festival returns for its highly anticipated second year at Herrington Country Park, set against the iconic backdrop of the Penshaw Monument.
The latest line-up for Monument Festival 2025, taking place on Saturday, 19th July, has been revealed.
Leading the announcement are Mercury Music Prize-nominated Yard Act and BRIT Award-winning The Fratellis, both making their Monument Festival debut.
Building on the inaugural success of 2024, which featured unforgettable performances from Scouse indie icons The Coral, The View, and Jake Bugg, the 2025 edition promises to be even bigger, bolder, and better.
Attendees can expect more heavyweight acts and a strong spotlight on emerging talent from the North East.
Also joining the line-up this year is Red Rum Club, known for their anthemic, brass-infused indie sound, The Twang, beloved for their nostalgic indie anthems, and rising stars Porij, whose genre-blurring style has captivated audiences nationwide. More acts will feature across the indie and rock stages, with the headline act to be announced next week—organisers are hinting at a surprise or two!
About The Fratellis: Scottish indie-rock favourites The Fratellis, famed for their chart-topping hit "Chelsea Dagger", bring their infectious energy and sing-along anthems to the Monument Festival stage. Winners of the BRIT Award for Best British Breakthrough Act, the band has cultivated a devoted fanbase through a string of acclaimed albums and electrifying live performances.
Their crowd-pleasing charisma and festival-friendly sound make them a perfect addition to Monument Festival 2025.
New for 2025: Monument Festival proudly links up with Waves Festival, introducing the Waves Stage, curated by the team behind Sunderland’s beloved Waves Festival and the iconic music venue Independent.
A cornerstone of Sunderland’s music scene for over two decades, Independent has hosted legendary acts including Andrew Weatherall, Jamie Jones, The Zutons, Jamie T, The Klaxons, and local heroes The Futureheads and Field Music, Mercury Music Prize winners.
As Sunderland celebrates its newly awarded Music City Status, Monument Festival stands as a flagship event, uniting national touring artists, award-nominated performers, and the best emerging local and national talent across two vibrant stages.
Organisers said today: “Monument Festival is a proud Sunderland brand, and with Sunderland achieving Music City status, we are thrilled to bring such fantastic artists to Herrington Country Park.
“The Fratellis are treasured festival favourites, and we’re excited to welcome Yard Act, one of the hottest names on the festival circuit, to Monument for the first time. Our partnership with Waves Festival allows us to showcase incredible talent and deliver an affordable music experience with 19 original artists for under £40.”
Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit www.monumentfestival.co.uk