Sunderland is gearing up for an exhilarating summer filled with a unique blend of events and experiences.
From the enchanting world of dinosaurs to the captivating moves of Dirty Dancing, coupled with delightful outdoor dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Following the resounding success of the Sunderland Food and Drink Festival and Make Music Day, Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council have joined forces to present an action-packed summer program that promises endless excitement.
Running from July 22nd to September 3rd, this engaging program is designed to captivate the entire family. Among the highlights is the Jurassic Jungle Trail, where visitors can immerse themselves in a nostalgic journey using the free Sunderland Experience app. Explore the city centre to discover augmented reality characters that have been scattered throughout, creating a truly interactive adventure.
In addition to the enthralling trail, the Sunderland Experience app will also provide exclusive offers and discounts that can be redeemed when unlocking these charming characters.
As part of the spectacle, keep your eyes peeled for six “real” dinosaur eggs cleverly placed in strategic locations. Some of these eggs even offer captivating 3D interactions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
Keel Square will be hosting an outdoor cinema on three dates across the summer, with a number of family favourites and adult classics on show.
On 5 August visitors can enjoy Disney’s The Jungle Book, followed by Beauty and The Beast and then winding up with Dirty Dancing.
On 19 August Matilda, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and A Star is Born will be screened followed on 2 September by Encanto, The Lion King and Back To The Future.
The cinema experience will be completed by a range of street food stalls as well as a Pimms van and patisserie, Sweet Petite.
Market Square will play host to a climbing wall every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the holidays, while free, nine hole crazy golf will be on offer at High Street West on 27 July and 10 and 24 August.
Sunniside Gardens will hold Family Fun Days on 16,23 and 30 August which will include circus skill workshops, crafts and garden games which are free, but participants need to register in advance at bidworkshops.eventbrite.co.uk
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, believes the programme will be a godsend for parents wanting to keep their youngsters occupied during the summer.
“We know that it can be a challenge keeping children entertained during the long summer break, which is why we’ve come up with a programme which really does have something for everyone,” she said.
“There are lots of fun activities for people of all ages and also the opportunity to enjoy some movie classics.
“After the recent success of both the Food and Drink Festival and Make Music Day we are very positive that the summer events will be very well received.”
Councillor John Price, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for Vibrant City, said: “We want to encourage families to get out and enjoy everything that’s on offer around the city this summer and with this programme of events there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.
“The Jurassic Jungle Trail is a great way to keep kids entertained through the school holidays while providing a boost to Sunderland’s local businesses, and the outdoor cinema experience will offer something for everyone.”
The free Sunderland Experience app can be downloaded via Google Play and the Apple app store. Details of all activities can be found at www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events.
