Residents and visitors are being invited to enjoy four weekends of free entertainment, creativity and culture as Sunderland’s popular One Big Summer programme returns to the city’s bandstands and parks.
The community events will celebrate local talent through poetry, visual art, live music, fashion and folk performances, giving people of all ages the chance to enjoy Sunderland’s outdoor spaces.
The programme begins with ‘Art and Poetry in the Park’ at Mowbray Park on Saturday 22 August, a celebration of creativity where live poetry performances delivered by King Ink. This will sit alongside interactive art workshops and guided open-air painting sessions led by 24 North East.
The following weekend, on Saturday 29 August, the spotlight turns to local music with ‘Made @ The Bandstand’, delivered in association with Purple Roomz Studios. The free outdoor event will transform the bandstand in Mowbray Park into a vibrant live music venue featuring singers, rappers and DJs from across Sunderland's thriving music scene.
Creativity takes centre stage once again on Saturday 5 September with ‘Fashion Meets Art’ in Roker Park, bringing together fashion, photography and live music in a visually striking event. Visitors can enjoy a mini fashion show showcasing local creative talent against the unique backdrop of one of Sunderland's most iconic outdoor spaces.
The series concludes on Sunday 13 September with ‘Folk in the Park’ at Barnes Park, which will feature live folk music performances. Attendees can also enjoy instrument workshops, local craft stalls and a ceilidh led by the Keel Assembly Ceilidh Band. The event promises a welcoming atmosphere for families, music lovers and anyone keen to experience traditional music and dance.
Together, the events aim to make arts and culture accessible to everyone, while encouraging residents and visitors to discover new experiences, support local artists and spend time enjoying Sunderland's parks and green spaces.
Councillor Ciera Hudspith, Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Heritage at Sunderland City Council, said:
One Big Summer has brought thousands of people together across Sunderland this year, and these final four events are a fantastic way to round off the programme.
"From poetry and painting to live music, fashion and folk dancing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These events showcase the incredible creativity and talent we have in our city while making arts and culture accessible in fun, welcoming outdoor settings.
"We look forward to seeing residents and visitors come together over the coming weeks to enjoy these unique events and celebrate everything that makes Sunderland such a vibrant and creative place.
All four events are free to attend and open to people of all ages.
More details about One Big Summer and upcoming events will be shared in the coming weeks. Follow @SunderlandUKOfficial on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date, and check One Big Summer - MySunderland for more information. Or download the Sunderland App: The Sunderland App - MySunderland
The Back to the Bandstand programme showcases the type of community-focused events that can be supported through Sunderland City Council's Festivals and Events Fund. Residents, community groups and organisations with ideas for events or activities that bring people together are encouraged to explore the funding opportunities available. To find out more about the fund and how to apply, visit the MySunderland website here or contact the Events Team at events@sunderland.gov.uk.
