Everything you need to know about this year's Sunderland Armed Forces Weekend

The free, family-friendly event celebrates and recognises the contribution of serving Armed Forces personnel, veterans, reservists, and their families, while bringing the wider community together to show their support.

Across the weekend, visitors will be able to enjoy live entertainment, family activities, stalls, food vendors, and displays from military and veteran organisations, as well as the popular seafront military parade, which highlights Sunderland’s strong connection with the Armed Forces community.

Organisers say this year’s event will be “bigger than ever”, with more activities, organisations and attractions planned to help people learn more about the work of the Armed Forces and the support available to veterans.

David Bygate-Pittiglio, director of Sunderland Armed Forces Weekend, said: “It’s incredibly important that we celebrate and recognise our Armed Forces community here in Sunderland.

“The weekend is about bringing people together to show their support while also giving the public the opportunity to learn more about the Armed Forces and the veteran community.

“This year we’ve worked hard to make the event even bigger, with more happening across the weekend.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone along and see the community come together once again.”

Sunderland Armed Forces Weekend has become a key event in the city’s calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from across the region.

You can find out more on the event’s website.