The long-awaited Oasis reunion tour begins this weekend in Cardiff, marking the first time the Gallagher brothers will share a stage in nearly 16 years. With the Principality Stadium playing host to the opening two nights of the sold-out Oasis Live 25 tour, the Welsh capital is bracing for an influx of fans – and a weekend of music, nostalgia, and celebration.
Why Cardiff?
The tour’s first stop raised a few eyebrows, but Liam Gallagher’s answer was typically candid. When asked why Cardiff was chosen to kick off the reunion, he replied simply on X: “Because Cardiff is the bollox.”
Indeed, the Principality Stadium, with a capacity of 74,500, is no stranger to major events, having welcomed Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift last year. Local businesses are now gearing up for a bumper weekend.
Gary Corp, manager of the City Arms, said: “We’re expecting the concert will treble if not quadruple the footfall on the street.” Ethan John, events manager at Tiny Rebel, called the band’s choice to open in Cardiff “surreal”, adding that past stadium gigs like Swift’s Eras Tour had a “massive impact” on local trade.
When and Where
Oasis take to the stage on Friday 4th and Saturday 5th July at the Principality Stadium. Doors open at 5pm, with indie legends Cast performing at 6pm, followed by Richard Ashcroft at 7pm. The main event – Oasis – begins at 8.15pm, with both concerts expected to finish by 10.30pm.
The 41-date tour will continue through Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, before moving on to North America, Mexico, and Australia. Fans overseas can expect support from acts including Cage the Elephant and Ball Park Music.
Travel and Road Closures
Commuters and concertgoers alike are being urged to plan ahead, as the city braces for heavy traffic and crowded trains.
Georgie Wills from Transport for Wales said: “We’re thrilled to welcome thousands to Cardiff this summer. Look out for our queuing systems and travel tips – and let’s make it a safe and smooth experience for everyone.”
Cardiff Council confirmed road closures in the city centre will begin at 12pm on both concert days and continue until midnight. These are scheduled three hours earlier than for other summer concerts including Stereophonics and Kendrick Lamar.
The Cardiff Bus Interchange will shut at 3pm, and Queen Street railway station will close at 10pm (except for accessible services and travel to Cardiff Bay).
Oasis Afterparties: Where to keep the party going
Whether you’ve got a golden ticket or not, the music doesn’t stop when the lights go down at the stadium. Cardiff’s nightlife is pulling out all the stops, with themed afterparties, Britpop DJ sets, and indie anthems filling venues across the city.
Steinbeck & Shaw
In partnership with Voodoo Disco, this city centre bar will host a full-throttle Oasis tribute night, headlined by Hacienda icon Chad Jackson and Madchester’s Chris Bretten. Expect everything from Oasis and Madchester classics to Britpop bangers. Running 2pm to 3am both days. Early booking is advised.
Clwb Ifor Bach
Renowned for its indie scene, Clwb will offer ‘Definitely Maybe’ themed pre- and post-gig parties. DJs will span three rooms playing non-stop 80s, 90s, and 00s indie rock. Pre-party: 12pm–6pm. Afterparty: 10.30pm–4am.
Bootlegger
A more intimate affair nearby, Bootlegger promises back-to-back Oasis hits, Britpop bangers and 90s floor-fillers. Events run 10pm–2.30am, with a handful of free tickets still available.
Revolution de Cuba
Their Don’t Look Back in Hunger event on Friday only offers brunch, tapas, and drinks deals from 12pm, with a pre-gig party followed by an afterparty from 8.30pm. Tickets start at £25, but walk-ins are welcome.
Mary’s
Hosting a pre- and post-gig party from 3pm to 1am on both nights, Mary’s promises a warm-up and wind-down with plenty of energy.
Walkabout
Starting at 1pm, this bar will play Oasis hits alongside tracks from the band’s Britpop peers. The event runs until 2am, with tickets from £5.
Retros
Karaoke, three floors of dancing and Oasis galore – Retros is running all-out parties from 1pm to 4am. Tickets start at £4.50, though they’re close to selling out.
Whether you’re heading to the gig or just soaking up the atmosphere in town, this weekend promises to be a celebration of a band that defined a generation. With Cardiff as the launchpad for Oasis’s long-awaited return, fans old and new will be singing their hearts out long after the final encore.
Let the good times roll – Cardiff, you’re up first.
