The cost of living crisis is failing to make a dent in spending on live shows, festivals and events, with attendance up 18% from last year, one company reported.
Live entertainment company Live Nation said its own data shows around 4.3 million fans are expected to attend its shows, festivals and events in the UK this month alone.
This fortnight is expected to be the biggest two weeks of the year for live entertainment, with around one million fans attending shows this week and another million expected next week.
This weekend's shows include major stadium, arena and outdoor performances across the country, with the likes of Bad Bunny performing in London, Metallica in Cardiff, Lewis Capaldi and Teddy Swims in Exeter, and the State Fayre festival taking place in Chelmsford.
Harry Styles will play 12 nights at Wembley Stadium this summer, breaking the record for most shows at the venue in a single year, while Bad Bunny will become the first Latin artist to headline a UK stadium this weekend, with shows at London's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Throughout the summer, the UK will host artists such as Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, BTS, Bon Jovi and Ariana Grande.
Live Nation figures suggest fans spend an extra £122 per person on average beyond the ticket when attending shows and festivals, including in hotels, pubs, restaurants, travel, shops and other local businesses.
Live Nation UK and Ireland chairman Denis Desmond said: “This month, 4.3 million people will be at Live Nation events across the UK and Ireland, and one million people will enjoy concerts and festivals this weekend alone.
“What matters is what's behind those numbers. It's the artists putting on amazing shows for their fans and the people meeting old friends, making new ones, discovering new music and making memories together.
“At the same time, live music contributes to the economy and supports businesses, from pubs and restaurants to hotels, shops and transport.”
