Sunderland comes alive with light as city illuminations are switched on

Lights along the seafront have been tested over the last couple of evenings, but tonight, Friday, November 15, saw the official switch-on.

In previous years, the Illuminations and Festival of Light have taken place in tandem between October and November, with the latter staged in Roker Park.

This year, for the first time, the Festival of Light will instead take place in Mowbray Park to tie in with the pre-Christmas programme and celebrations in the city centre, including the ice rink and Hadrian’s Tipi in Keel Square.

The funfair and associated activities usually held at Cliffe Park will operate on the old Crowtree site this year, in line with the Festival of Light.

The Festival will open in Mowbray Park on Thursday, November 21, and run until Sunday, December 22, on every Thursday to Sunday.

Sunderland’s annual Christmas Lights switch-on will also take place on the same day as the launch.

Cinderella and Prince Charming join mayor Councillor David Snowdon to press the big button in Keel Square, with the party to start from 6pm.

This year, the seafront illuminations also take in Dame Dorothy Street and for this year the Wearmouth Bridge, marking 90 years since it was opened.

Sunderland City Council has said the lighting features on the bridge will be temporary until January, but some will be permanent and can be used year-round.

Tickets for the Festival of Light, which cost £3 per person, are available online now here.