Bradford Live has finally opened its doors with thousands of people turning out for a series of celebratory events. Trafalgar also revealed that Bradford Live had already taken over £1 million at the box office prior to the official opening, reflecting the huge anticipation for the venue’s return.

Over 1,000 people visited Bradford Live for the first time on 23 August for the Family Open Day event.

The day provided a chance for members of the public to gain access to all areas of the venue and children enjoyed themselves with a treasure hunt, face painting and a chance to take the spotlight on our Main Auditorium stage!

The celebrations continued on Thursday 28 August with Bradford Live at Last: Bradford’s Big Bash. Over 2,000 revellers experienced an electrifying night as the 40-piece Limelight Orchestra took to the stage with dancers and powerhouse vocalists to perform iconic dance, trance, and club hits from the ’90s to now.

Bradford Live’s opening celebrations continued over the weekend with Bill Bailey’s Thoughtifier stand-up comedy show entertaining over 3,000 people on Saturday 30 August.

Then on Sunday, the red carpet was rolled out for the official gala night with a special performance of The Prat Pack starring Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley, Shane Richie, and Joe Pasquale – performing their hit variety show to a sold-out audience.

For many attendees these opening events offered a first look inside Bradford Live, with the venue receiving overwhelming positive feedback from visitors and guests.

Howard and Rosemary said: “Our opening celebrations have been truly special, and it’s been a delight to welcome thousands of people through the doors for the very first time. There really is something for everyone at Bradford Live. We thank the visionary project teams who brought Bradford Live roaring back to life. Without them, none of this would be possible. During this City of Culture year, Bradford Live will play its part in building a world-class legacy for the city as well as becoming a venue of national stature we can all be proud of.”

Darren Moore, Venue Director, said: “This has been such an unforgettable week. It’s an honour to work in such a culturally and historically rich venue, and I know my fantastic new venue team all feel the same. We love Bradford Live, and it’s been a real pleasure to share it with everyone. This is just the start of an exciting journey ahead.”

Watch ITV’s coverage of Bradford Live’s opening celebrations here: Bradford Live is back 12 years after being bought for £1 – Latest From ITV News

On 16 September it was announced that BBC Radio 1 will host its first ever Radio 1 Anthems Live at Bradford Live on Saturday 15 November 2025, celebrating timeless tracks from the 00s, 10s and beyond!

The special night of live music celebrating iconic tracks and unforgettable moments from the last two decades will be hosted by Radio 1’s Charlie Hedges, Dean Mccullough and Lauren Redfern.

Huge Radio 1 Anthems acts Busted, Tinie Tempah and Pixie Lott are set to perform. The night will also feature two special DJ sets from Radio 1’s Charlie Hedges, with a dance anthems mix, and Dean Mccullough, with a pop anthems mix.

Busted said: “We are stoked to be playing Radio 1’s first ever Anthems Live up in Bradford this November. It’s anthems right! So we’ll be playing all of the biggest Busted hits for you, we’re talking Year 3000, Crashed The Wedding, Air Hostess, You Said No, and all the rest of them. It’s gonna be mega. Can’t wait to see you there.”

Tinie Tempah said: “I’m really excited to be playing at Radio 1 Anthems in Bradford. Expect bangers upon bangers classic and new!”

Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, added: “Our BBC partnership goes from strength to strength with the announcement of BBC Radio 1 Anthems Live coming to Bradford, bringing pop icons to our incredible new venue in the heart of the city. Come along for an unforgettable night of pure unadulterated fun, joy and music with your favourite artists.”

Performances from Radio 1 Anthems Live will be broadcast on Wednesday 19 November at 5pm on Radio 1 Anthems, with highlights across the day on BBC Radio 1.