Earlier this summer, The Weeknd smashed attendance records as he became the first artist to pack 160,000 fans into London Stadium this past July. And after a newsworthy summer for the artist, the Starboy comes back to the capital this weekend to cap off his evolving European tour. Together with viagogo, we’ve pulled together a superfan’s guide to the sold-out show, including tips on how you can still grab a ticket for as low as £84.
What visual effects can you expect?
The Weeknd’s stage features a giant, glowing moon hovering above the stage and a post-apocalyptic cityscape with hand-carved, crumbling buildings and chrome skyscrapers. Catch his band play from their own custom buildings, complete with neon-tinged lasers and flame-throwing pyrotechnics. It’s a cinematic spectacle that any Marvel villain would be proud of.
What projects to listen to?
The ‘After Hours til Dawn’ tour is a celebration of The Weeknd’s fourth and fifth studio albums, After Hours (2020) and Dawn FM (2022). However, if fans love the dark, hypnotic energy of Trilogy, funk-fuelled Starboy album or the slick soundtrack to Tesfaye’s controversial HBO show ‘The Idol’, fans will be rewarded with hits from each. Look out for ‘House of Balloons’, ‘Die For You’ and new arrivals ‘Popular’ and ‘Creepin’.
Which support acts to look out for?
For many fans the appeal of this tour runs deeper than the headliner – as he is joined by super producer Mike Dean and Grammy-winning DJ Kaytranada. Fellow Canadian Kaytranada has created remixes for almost every artist you can think of. His production style is instantly recognisable, which he describes as “black tropical house” complete with energetic synths and ground-shaking bass. After an epic, headline slot at Coachella in April – Kaytra left the world wanting more. His second London appearance will surely drum up excitement for his forthcoming third album.
What to wear to the show?
If we were to speak in terms of Will Smith movies, this tour would be a cross between I Am Legend (2007) and Men in Black (1997). A perfect excuse for a futuristic fit, so think monochrome – all black or all white (just pick a side!). The Weeknd will be decked out in tactical vests, combat boots and chrome masks to fit the army aesthetic – even his dancers will be dressed as imperial guards. Ladies, if you need a little inspiration: think metallics, black leather or mesh with silver jewellery and accessories.
Want to grab a last min ticket?
If you are keen to experience this ground-breaking tour which originally began in 2021 and has evolved twice since then, here’s your chance! Tickets for the Wembley date are still available on viagogo for as low as £84. We’d move quickly though, as viagogo data shows that fans from over 70 countries have already bought tickets for the show and fan demand for the tour’s European finale has tripled on the ticketing platform since July. Fans have also bought 25% more tickets compared to his previous record-breaking London dates in early July (7th/8th). The upcoming show on Friday has outsold all tour dates for 2023, including his upcoming Latin American leg beginning in September.
How do I travel there?
Reaching Wembley Stadium is a breeze by public transport:
Tube Travel: Just two stops from Baker Street on the Metropolitan line, or connect via the Jubilee line.
Railway Route: One stop from London Marylebone on Chiltern Railways.
Central Station: On the Bakerloo line and London Overground line from Watford Junction to London Euston.
Bus: Wembley enjoys extensive coverage by local bus services, such as 18/N18, 83/N83, 92, 182, 206, 223, 297, and 483. These routes conveniently connect North West London with Central London and vice versa.
We would encourage you to use public transport however, if you opt for a car, Wembley has official authorised stadium parking, but remember to secure your parking spot beforehand.
Where to go before and after?
Before
Doors at Wembley open at 4.30pm but the Weeknd isn’t expected to be on stage until 8pm. If you are lucky enough to have the Friday afternoon free then why not head down over to Wembley early to beat rush hour and soak up the vibes before the gig.
If you haven’t been to BOXPARK Wembley before then where have you been? Super close to the stadium on the Wembley Way, Boxpark is the best pre-gig spot with multiple bars, resident DJ’s, a great cocktail menu and over 20 street food vendors. They also have an immersive leisure play experience including axe-throwing VR, arcade gaming and a crazy golf course. Be sure to get down early as it guarantees to get busy quickly.
After
If you are London based or staying in the city over the weekend, you could carry on the party on Saturday at All Points East. Head to East London’s Victoria Park for the ‘Field Day’ festival headlined by Aphex Twin & Bonobo. Catch Arca, Fever Ray, Jayda G, Kelela and SBTRKT supporting the house/electro star-studded lineup. You can still nab tickets for the festival on viagogo for face-value price at £94.
