**Anticipation Builds as Catfish and the Bottlemen Prepare for Historic Principality Stadium Gig**
On Friday, 1st August, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff is set to welcome one of Wales’ most successful indie rock exports, Catfish and the Bottlemen, as they take to the stage for a landmark show. This performance marks their first ever stadium concert, representing a significant milestone in the band’s career and a proud moment for their hometown of Llandudno.
Catfish and the Bottlemen have previously played some of Cardiff’s most iconic venues, including energetic sets at Cardiff Castle and inside the Utilita Arena. However, tonight’s event dwarfs those prior appearances, promising to be the group’s largest headline show in the Welsh capital, and likely their most ambitious production to date.
Adding to the magnitude of the evening, the band have invited two major international acts to set the tone for their headline slot. The crowd will first be treated to the sounds of DMA’s, a prominent Australian rock outfit known for bringing anthemic tunes and an energetic live presence. Following them will be Scottish legends Travis, the chart-toppers behind Britpop classic “Why Does It Always Rain on Me?”, who are sure to stoke the crowd’s enthusiasm ahead of the main act.
The schedule for the night is carefully orchestrated to ensure maximum enjoyment. Stadium gates will open at 5pm, giving early-arriving concertgoers a chance to soak up the atmosphere and find their seats. DMA’s are slated to kick off proceedings at 6:30pm, before Travis take their place at 7:30pm. Finally, the headline slot belongs to Catfish and the Bottlemen themselves, who are scheduled to appear at 8:45pm.
Navigating the Principality Stadium can be a challenge, especially amidst the buzz of a major gig and the usual throngs of Cardiff city centre. Those attending for the first time or simply keen to avoid any confusion should take note: gates 2 and 3 are situated at the main entrance along Westgate Street, conveniently close to popular city centre eateries and bars. Gate 5 is somewhat more discreet, reachable via Park Street, with access recommended via Cardiff Central railway station, passing familiar landmarks such as Tesco and the Betty Campbell statue. The riverside end of the boardwalk hosts gates 6 and 7, while gate 1 is located at the castle-side of the stadium, requiring a small detour for entry.
As ever, crowds are expected to be sizeable, and those unfamiliar with the area or the stadium setup may find navigation through Cardiff’s bustling streets more demanding than usual. With road closures—such as Scott Road—enforced for the event, ticket holders are encouraged to allow extra time for travel, especially if reliant on public transport from Cardiff Central railway station.
Demand for tickets has remained high in the lead-up to the show, with limited numbers still available for purchase from around £43.75, which includes handling fees. For those still undecided, the allure of hearing hits like “Kathleen”, “Cocoon” and “Longshot” live in the electric environment of the Principality Stadium may well prove irresistible.
From their humble beginnings in North Wales to headlining one of the country’s largest venues, Catfish and the Bottlemen’s journey has captivated fans and music commentators alike. Tonight’s show, accompanied by high-profile support acts, not only cements their place as a major force in British rock, but also affirms Cardiff’s reputation as a hub for memorable, large-scale live music events. As the city prepares to host thousands of concertgoers, excitement is palpable, with attendees and organisers alike hoping for a night that lives long in the memory.
For updates or further details regarding the event, fans are encouraged to check relevant event pages or follow social media channels, as last minute changes or important information might be shared throughout the day.
As Cardiff readies itself for a night of powerful performances and community spirit, this stadium gig marks a high point in the band’s impressive trajectory, coming full circle for a group whose Welsh roots remain at the heart of their success.