Irish pop sensation Westlife has officially announced their highly anticipated 25th anniversary tour, marking a monumental milestone in their glittering career that has spanned more than two decades. The band — comprising Shane Filan, Kian Egan, Nicky Byrne, and Mark Feehily — will begin their anniversary tour with an intimate yet spectacular performance at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall on October 27, 2025.
This celebratory tour will span multiple cities across the UK and Ireland, promising fans a nostalgic journey through their chart-topping hits, including classics like “Flying Without Wings,” “You Raise Me Up,” “Swear It Again,” and many more. However, the announcement comes amid growing concern over the health of beloved band member Mark Feehily, who has faced ongoing medical issues over the past year.
A Celebration of Legacy
Westlife’s 25th anniversary is not just a celebration of their music, but a testament to their enduring bond and loyal fanbase. Since their debut in 1999, Westlife has sold over 55 million records worldwide, achieved 14 UK number-one singles, and performed to millions of fans across the globe. Their blend of heartfelt ballads, polished harmonies, and down-to-earth charm has made them one of the most successful boybands in history.
“We are beyond excited to celebrate 25 years of Westlife with our amazing fans who have supported us through every step of our journey,” said Shane Filan during the tour announcement. “This tour is our way of saying thank you and reflecting on the music and memories we’ve shared.”
The tour will include performances at a range of arenas and special venues, with dates stretching into 2026. According to early reports, tickets will go on sale starting July 5, with pre-sales for fan club members beginning a few days earlier.
Royal Albert Hall: A Grand Opening
The decision to launch the tour at the Royal Albert Hall — a venue steeped in history and musical prestige — underscores the significance of this anniversary. Known for its grand architecture and world-class acoustics, the Hall offers a fitting stage for Westlife’s milestone concert.
The October 27 show is expected to include special orchestral arrangements of some of the band’s biggest hits, promising a night of both nostalgia and reinvention. Industry insiders suggest guest performers and surprises may also be part of the kickoff event.
Health Concerns Surrounding Mark Feehily
While the tour announcement has generated immense excitement, it is tempered by ongoing concerns over the health of Mark Feehily. The 44-year-old singer has had to take intermittent breaks from performing over the past two years due to a series of health challenges, including a serious battle with pneumonia and other related complications.
In a heartfelt statement accompanying the tour announcement, Feehily addressed his fans:
“While I am still navigating some health issues, I am determined to be part of this special tour as much as I can. The support from my bandmates and fans has meant the world to me. I may need to sit out some shows, but I’ll be there in spirit every step of the way.”
Bandmate Kian Egan expressed solidarity with Mark, emphasizing that his health and well-being are the top priority: “We’ve been through a lot together over the past 25 years. Mark is family to us, and we’ll do everything to support him — whether that’s giving him time to rest or adapting the show to his needs.”
Fans React With Love and Loyalty
The announcement has already sparked a wave of emotional responses on social media, with fans sharing their excitement and well-wishes for Feehily. The hashtags #Westlife25 and #GetWellMark trended on Twitter within hours of the news breaking.
Claire Thompson, a longtime fan from Manchester, shared her thoughts online: “I’ve followed Westlife since I was a teenager. Mark’s voice is the soul of so many of their songs. Knowing he’s doing his best to join the tour just shows how much he cares about the fans.”
What to Expect From the 25th Anniversary Tour
The 25th anniversary tour promises to be a rich blend of classic hits, deep cuts, and modern interpretations. Westlife’s recent foray into orchestral arrangements and acoustic renditions is expected to be a major element of the show’s design.
The stage production is rumored to be their most ambitious yet, with immersive visuals, storytelling elements, and heartfelt tributes to the band’s journey and the fans who’ve supported them since day one.
In addition to their UK and Ireland stops, there are strong indications that international dates — including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and possibly North America — will be added in early 2026.
Full List of Initial Tour Dates and Venues
- October 27, 2025 – Royal Albert Hall, London
- October 29, 2025 – 3Arena, Dublin
- November 1, 2025 – SSE Arena, Belfast
- November 4, 2025 – AO Arena, Manchester
- November 7, 2025 – Utilita Arena, Birmingham
- November 10, 2025 – OVO Hydro, Glasgow
- November 14, 2025 – Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham
- November 17, 2025 – The O2 Arena, London (second date added due to demand)
Additional dates are expected to be announced, with select venues holding dates for possible encore performances.
A Bittersweet Yet Joyous Moment
Westlife’s 25th anniversary tour is shaping up to be one of the band’s most emotionally resonant chapters — a celebration of legacy and resilience, tempered with the human reality of health struggles and aging. Yet, through it all, their message remains clear: the show goes on, with heart, harmony, and hope.
For fans, this tour offers a rare opportunity to relive the soundtrack of their youth while celebrating the artists who’ve stayed the course with integrity and passion. Whether Mark Feehily can be present for every night or only in spirit, the bond between Westlife and their audience remains unshakably strong — as timeless as the songs they sing.
