Family rave brings the White Isle to Wearside

Big Fish Little Fish (BFLF), which fuses DJs performances with child-friendly activities, is bringing its first event to Sunderland after sold-out raves elsewhere in the region.

Aimed at the post-rave generation who have now have children, the family rave will take place at Independent in Holmeside on May 20.

The event, which originated in London, was brought to the North East by Ruth Lee who went to a similar event in Scotland and decided it was the perfect way to combine her love of dance music and clubbing with family fun.

Ruth said: “I have a toddler and we both share a massive love for dance music, so this was perfect for us. At our first ever BFLF event in Galashiels we were both so excited about the whole idea and couldn’t wait to get involved to bring this to the North East, particularly given our love of dance music in the region.

“Sunderland will be our fourth event in the region after three sell-out successes in Newcastle and we have already secured a venue now in Durham for a Big Fish Little Fish rave in June. It’s no surprise how popular Big Fish Little Fish has become of course, we are known all around the world for our nightlife in the region.”

The first Sunderland event will have a Flower Power theme, which is optional fancy dress, and will run from 2pm to 4pm with music by DJ Glenn Aston and sound levels checked for the younger ravers.

Music featured at the event includes tracks by Groove Armada, Orbital and A Guy Called Gerald.

Highlights include a multi-sensory dance floor with club visuals, bubble machines, glitter cannons and a giant parachute dance.

There will also be a play area with tents and tunnels, a safe-space for babies with a ball pool and soft mats, alongside a craft area with a colouring mural and a playdough table.

Ruth added: “Big Fish Little Fish was set up by Hannah Saunders in Brixton. She’s an old raver, big festival-goer, clubber and has young children. She was going to baby groups and finding them a little boring and entirely child focussed - whereas at festivals her entire family were having a wonderful time - so she decided to set something up for families that both the grown-ups and the kids could enjoy together.”

•Ticket are available now from www.eventbrite.co.uk