Entries open for this year's Houghton Feast carnival parade

Community groups and other organisations are being invited to get involved in a carnival parade as part of an ancient festival which dates back hundreds of years.
Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.
Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.

This year’s Houghton Feast festival is just months away and the annual carnival parade and procession has been pencilled in for Saturday, October 6.

Organisers are now calling on individuals and groups to enter the parade, which as usual involves a procession of vintage cars and vehicles in front of thousands of spectators.

Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.
Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.
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The parade will begin at 2pm, with those taking part having to meet marshals at Houghton Library car park in Station Road at 1.30pm.

The parade passes through Houghton town centre, on to The Broadway to be judged by the Mayor of Sunderland, before proceeding to Dairy Lane.

Parade organiser John Price said: “As an exciting addition to the event, all vintage and classic vehicles will then be directed into the large car park area of Kepier Academy to be involved with a vehicle exhibition of all entries, which will give the public a unique opportunity to view the vehicles close at hand and meet the owners of the vehicles.

“Meanwhile all the walking groups will be guided into Rectory Park (grass area) when supportive Feast entertainment will be provided and families can meet together and further enjoy this unique afternoon.”

Crowds watch as Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.Crowds watch as Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.
Crowds watch as Houghton Feast's Annual Parade travels along Newbottle Street.
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The origins of Houghton Feast, which this years takes place from October 5 to October 14, date back to the 12th Century and Michaelmas, the dedication service of the parish church of St Michael and All Angels.

The 10-day festival was revived in the 1960s and features a host of attractions including a fairground, church events, carnival parade, a tattoo with pipes and drums, shows, community events, exhibitions, talks and tours, and fireworks.

There is also the famous Ox Roast, which is held at Rectory Field in the town on Feast Monday.

Those wanting to get involved in the parade should call Mr Price on 0191 584 6726 or email [email protected] for further information.