London, UK – Battersea Park in Concert, a highlight of the capital’s summer cultural calendar, is set to make a significant return in 2025. The esteemed outdoor music event, held within the picturesque surroundings of Battersea Park, is scheduled to take place from August 23rd to 25th, aligning with the ambitious programme for Wandsworth’s tenure as the London Borough of Culture 2025.
The organisers have announced a dynamic lineup featuring three new outdoor concerts, promising a diverse range of musical experiences for attendees. These performances will form a central part of the broader cultural celebrations planned across Wandsworth throughout its designated year.
The 2025 Lineup: Orchestral Grandeur and R&B Vibrancy
The centrepiece of the opening weekend includes prominent appearances by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. This renowned ensemble is slated to perform two distinct programmes, showcasing their versatility and appeal across different genres.
On Saturday, August 23rd, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Pete Harrison, will present “Symphonic Disco“. This innovative performance aims to reimagine classic disco anthems through a lush orchestral lens, promising a unique blend of classical precision and the infectious energy of the disco era. It represents a bold crossover project designed to appeal to both traditional concert-goers and fans of popular music history.
In addition to the disco-themed performance, the orchestra will also deliver “A Night at the Movies“. This popular programme features iconic film scores, allowing the audience to experience the dramatic and emotional power of cinematic music performed live by a full symphony orchestra in an open-air setting. The specific date for “A Night at the Movies” within the August 23rd to 25th window is yet to be announced, but its inclusion ensures a nod to the beloved world of film scores.
Sharing the headline status for the 2025 event is the acclaimed musician Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. Known for their vibrant performances and eclectic mix of boogie-woogie, jazz, and rhythm and blues, Jools Holland’s orchestra is a popular draw on the live music circuit. Their appearance at Battersea Park is expected to bring a change of pace and energy to the weekend’s offerings.
The Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will be further bolstered by the inclusion of leading UK jazz musicians, a staple of Holland’s performances, ensuring a high calibre of instrumental artistry and improvisational skill on stage.
Context: Wandsworth’s London Borough of Culture 2025
The staging of Battersea Park in Concert in August 2025 is intrinsically linked to Wandsworth’s role as the London Borough of Culture for that year. This prestigious designation, awarded by the Mayor of London, aims to shine a spotlight on the unique cultural heritage and contemporary creativity within a specific borough, encouraging participation and engagement from residents and visitors alike.
Integrating an established and popular event like Battersea Park in Concert into the Borough of Culture programme provides a significant anchor event, drawing attention to Wandsworth’s cultural landscape during this important year. The period from August 23rd to 25th will therefore not only host these exciting musical performances but also serve as a focal point within the wider cultural tapestry being woven across the borough throughout 2025.
The Venue: An Iconic Setting
Battersea Park, located on the south bank of the River Thames, provides an idyllic and spacious setting for large-scale outdoor concerts. Its mature trees, open lawns, and views make it a favoured location for summer events in London. Hosting Battersea Park in Concert here leverages the park’s natural beauty and accessibility, creating a memorable environment for enjoying live music.
Anticipation Builds for a Cultural Highlight
The announcement of the 2025 programme for Battersea Park in Concert signals the return of a much-anticipated event. With the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra presenting innovative orchestral interpretations and classic film scores, alongside the dynamic performance of Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra featuring leading UK jazz musicians, the three new outdoor concerts promise a diverse and high-quality musical offering.
Taking place from August 23rd to 25th within the framework of Wandsworth’s London Borough of Culture 2025 celebrations, the event in Battersea Park is poised to be a major cultural highlight of the summer. Further details regarding ticketing and specific performance times are expected to be released closer to the event dates.
