National Mackem Day celebrations announced - here's what's in store

All things red and white will be celebrated as National Mackem Day returns.

What started a few years ago to promote the Mackem Dictionary has now become an annual celebration of all things Sunderland on August 12.

This year’s celebrations are set to be the biggest yet with a free night of music, stalls and performance at Sheepfolds Stables on Wednesday, August 12, from 5pm to 10pm.

Curated by Sunderland Music City, the event will be headlined by by Sunderland-born Ruth-Ann Boyle, lead singer of 90s chart-toppers Olive.

Dance anthem You’re Not Alone Alone topped the UK Singles Chart in 1997 and earned an Ivor Novello Award for Best Dance Music and Ruth will perform the number one hit, alongside a selection of other favourites in a special homecoming performance.

There will be a broad range of genres on the night, from Sunderland's all-female punk and ‘riot grrrl’ trio Claudia, formed through the city's renowned Young Musicians Project, to Sunderland Ceilidh Band playing traditional folk music.

Unfolding Theatre will be performing their piece ‘Dear Sunderland’ an uplifting performance combining spoken word and music, inspired by heartfelt letters written by people from across the city.

The acclaimed Abbie Finn Trio will be playing a few jazz tracks. The trio is comprised of local jazz drummer Abbie Finn alongside Harry Keeble on tenor saxophone and Paul Grainger on double bass.

Northern Daughters, the popular six-piece pop group made up of young performers from Sunderland, Washington and Whitburn will also be performing.

Hosting the evening will be Sunderland-born broadcaster Jeff Brown, well known across the North East as the face of BBC Look North for more than two decades.

Alongside the live entertainment, visitors can browse a marketplace featuring local independent businesses, artists and makers, including Under The Ivy, Roker Records, A Love Supreme, GrassiArt, Chris Cummings Art, Port Independent and Sunderland Music City merch, celebrating the city's thriving creative community.

Michelle Daurat Sunderland Music City CEO said:"National Mackem Day is all about celebrating Sunderland. Our people, our culture and our incredible creative talent.

“After the fantastic response to last year's event, we're delighted to be bringing the celebration back to Sheepfolds Stables.

“Whether you're a lifelong Mackem or new to the city, everyone is welcome to join us for an evening of great music, great food and great company."

Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to register in advance to secure their place as spaces are going quickly: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/national-mackem-day-tickets-1993840790477?a\=oddtdtcreator