Sunderland city centre will host a free, three-day festival this month as Sunderland City Council kicks off its One Big Summer programme. Running from Friday 22 May to Sunday 24 May 2026, the launch event will transform Keel Square and High Street West into a vibrant space for arts and culture.
The festival offers residents an affordable way to enjoy live entertainment. Visitors can expect a variety of performances and activities, including live music, spoken word, dance, visual arts, and hands-on creative workshops suitable for all ages.
The city centre event is designed to complement the atmosphere of a busy weekend in the region, as more than 100,000 music fans are expected in Sunderland for the nearby BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend at Herrington Country Park. Funding for the launch weekend has been provided by the North East Combined Authority to help support local artists and foster community spirit.
Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy and Place at the council, described the festival as a way to celebrate local creativity and bring people together. The launch weekend marks the beginning of an extended summer season of activities, which will include later ticketed concerts at Cliffe Park in Seaburn and further performances at Keel Square throughout August.
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