We're taking over Sunderland's Mowbray Park with a day of free live music

Sunderland’s thriving grassroots music scene will be celebrated with a free live music festival taking place this weekend.

Hosted by The Bunker CIC, Park Live takes place in Mowbray Park on Saturday, June 13 from 12pm to 6pm.

Funded by Sunderland City Council's East Area Committee and forming part of Sunderland Music City's Year of Music celebrations, the family-friendly event will showcase some of the city's most exciting emerging talent across two stages, bringing together live music, community organisations and young performers.

The event also forms part of the launch of the city’s summer programme of outdoor music events, kicking off a packed season of live performances, festivals and community celebrations across the city.

It also marks the first of several major music events being delivered by The Bunker CIC throughout the summer months as part of Sunderland's growing reputation as a Music City.

The main stage will feature performances from 16 bands and artists including Critch, Monkey's Blood, Stellacaster, Everglades and The Cornerstones, alongside a host of other acts representing the strength and diversity of Sunderland's grassroots music scene.

Meanwhile, the acoustic stage will provide a platform for singer-songwriters and emerging artists including Isabel Hudson, Caleb Adams, Hannah Hays and many more.

Visitors will also be able to take part in a range of free music workshops delivered by The Bunker's experienced team, offering opportunities to try instruments, develop new skills and learn more about Sunderland's music community.

Alongside the music, visitors can explore the Washington Mind Teenage Market, showcasing creative young entrepreneurs, artists and makers from across the city.

Adding to the festival atmosphere, the team from Bunker Radio will be broadcasting throughout the day, interviewing artists, speaking to visitors and capturing the sounds, stories and excitement of the event for audiences across Sunderland and beyond.

Kenny Sanger, Director of The Bunker CIC, said:"Park Live is all about celebrating the incredible talent we have here in Sunderland while creating a free, inclusive event that everyone can enjoy.

“Grassroots music venues and organisations play a vital role in developing artists and bringing people together, and this festival gives us the opportunity to showcase some of the fantastic musicians coming through the city right now.

“Thanks to the support of Sunderland City Council's East Area Committee and Sunderland Music City's Year of Music programme, we're able to bring this event to the city centre free of charge and create a fantastic platform for local artists. We're proud that Park Live will kick off Sunderland's summer of outdoor events and help showcase why our city continues to be recognised as one of the UK's most exciting places for grassroots music."

James Critchlow, frontman of Critch, who will be performing at the festival, said: "As a local band, opportunities like Park Live are incredibly important. It's brilliant to see the council investing in grassroots music and giving local artists the chance to perform in front of new audiences.

“We're really excited to be part of the line-up and can't wait to play in the heart of Sunderland alongside so many great local acts."

The Bunker CIC has been supporting musicians, young people and communities in Sunderland for over 40 years, providing affordable access to music education, rehearsal facilities, recording studios, performance opportunities and creative projects.

Every year the organisation supports thousands of musicians and delivers hundreds of live performances, workshops and creative opportunities across the city.

Park Live, Saturday, June 13, is free to attend and open to all ages.