Crowds enjoyed live performances by Houghton Pipe Band, Zazz dancers, Houghton Area Youth Brass Band, and The Houghton Feast Children’s Choir as the event returned after being held online last year.
The opening ceremony, on Friday, October 8, culminated in a minute’s applause for the NHS, followed by the switching on of the Houghton Feast Illuminations by the Right Worshipful, the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Henry Trueman.
Relive all the special moments from the opening night in our gallery below.
Relive all the special moments from the opening night in our gallery below.
9. Beauty and the Feast
Belle from Beauty and the Beast at The Houghton Feast 2021 opening ceremony. Photo: Kevin Brady
10. Switching on the lights
The Mayor of Sunderland Counsillor Henry Trueman switching on the lights at The Houghton Feast Illuminations at the opening ceremony. Photo: Kevin Brady
11. Grand Entrance
The Houghton-le-Spring Pipe Band started the opening ceremony. Photo: Kevin Brady