As the final hours of 2025 tick away, the nation prepares for its beloved New Year's Eve television tradition. Jools Holland's Annual Hootenanny returns once more, promising an unforgettable night of music and celebration to welcome 2026.
When and Where to Watch the Festivities
The iconic party will be broadcast live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from 11.30pm on Wednesday, 31st December 2025. The show offers viewers the perfect televised centrepiece for their own celebrations, featuring Jools and his renowned Rhythm and Blues Orchestra as the musical anchors for the evening.
A Stellar Line-Up for a Milestone Night
This year's roster of performers is a spectacular mix of music legends and contemporary stars. Headlining the event is Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, who will mark an incredible 60 years in the music industry by performing tracks from his solo album 'Fearless'.
Joining him will be a host of major names across genres. The line-up includes:
- Olivia Dean, who will perform songs from 'The Art of Loving' and duet with Jools on Natalie Cole's 'This Will Be'.
- Sixties icon Lulu, set to deliver classics including her take on David Bowie's 'The Man Who Sold The World'.
- Jessie J, ready to perform 'Living My Best Life' and a surprise Frank Sinatra number.
- Craig David, celebrating 25 years in music with songs from his album 'Commitment'.
The bill is completed by the powerful vocals of M People's Heather Small, indie favourites The Kooks marking 20 years of their debut album, plus Imelda May, Joe Webb, David Hermlin, and Ruby Turner.
Inside the Hootenanny Party Atmosphere
The Mirror gained exclusive access to the studio audience during the recording. Showbiz Editor Mark Jefferies shared insights into how Jools crafts the unique celebratory vibe, noting the host encourages the crowd to "cheer as loud as possible at the end" of songs and that dancing is actively welcomed.
Luke Pritchard of The Kooks hinted at the lively backstage atmosphere, revealing a memorable aftershow party featuring bagpipes. He also mentioned the band's reunion with Ronnie Wood, having toured together previously.
With such a diverse and legendary collection of artists, Jools Holland's Hootenanny 2025 is poised to be a fittingly spectacular send-off to the year. Make sure to tune in to BBC Two as the clock approaches midnight for a musical celebration like no other.
