The streets are alive with the sound of music this summer, as Kaiser Chiefs, Deacon Blue and Lulu will headline the first ever Lamplight Festival in Sunderland this summer.
Here’s everything you need to know about this festival taking place in Mowbray Park this summer…
A brand-new outdoor live music event organised by Sunderland City Council is coming to the city this summer to provide some much-needed fun in the sun.
The first-ever edition of Lamplight Festival will take place on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 August and will welcome indie giants Kaiser Chiefs, rock-pop legends Deacon Blue, pop icon Lulu and Sunderland’s own Frankie and the Heartstrings to the stage.
The all-new, family-friendly event will take place in the city centre’s Mowbray Park, welcoming big-name acts from a range of different musical genres.
Led by their charismatic frontman Ricky Wilson, the Saturday headliners Kaiser Chiefs have established themselves as one of the UK’s most prolific guitar bands since forming in Leeds at the turn of the century.
The band are custom-made for the festival experience and are set to belt out their anthemic indie hits which include ‘I Predict A Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’ and ‘Ruby’.
Meanwhile, Glasgow rock-pop legends, Deacon Blue, will headline the Sunday stage promising to perform a range of hits from their illustrious back catalogue.
With a career boasting seven million album sales, two number one albums and 14 hit singles, the band are best known for hits such as ‘Real Gone Kid’ and ‘Dignity’.
Deacon Blue will be joined by fellow scots, Lulu and Roddy Woomble on 7 August. Lulu first burst onto the scene in the swinging 60s at the tender age of just 15 with her chart-topping Isley Brothers hit, ‘Shout’.
From her humble beginnings in Dennistoun, Glasgow, Lulu gained widespread recognition as one of the most exciting performers and has since gone on to become one of the world’s most acclaimed Scottish singers.
In addition to an impressive line-up of internationally renowned stars, the festival will also shine a spotlight on a number of rising stars from across the UK, including Wearside’s rising star, Faye Fantarrow.
Tickets are priced at £39.50 for Saturday and £35 for Sunday, not including the booking fee. Under 5s are free, children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
All your important festival questions answered…
Where can I buy tickets?
You can buy tickets from ticketmaster.co.uk or seetickets.com. A limited number are also available to purchase in person at Hot Rats, 38 Stockton Rd, Sunderland SR1 3NR
Can I buy a ticket on the day?
It is advised to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Any remaining tickets will be sold from the box office located at Mowbray Park.
Can children attend the Lamplight festival?
Children of all ages can attend. Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Children aged five years and under are free. Children aged five and over require a ticket. If you are bringing a small child with you, we recommend that the child wears ear defenders.
The tickets are one set price for both adults and children.
Are there any concessions available?
Carers can gain free access when accompanying the person they care for and have purchased one standard access ticket. They must show their carers badge on entry.
What time are the performances?
Gates open at 3pm both days and the Festival finishes at 9.30pm. Stage times are confirmed nearer the time please visit lamplightfestival.co.uk
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Food and drink concessions are available on site, and therefore food and drink is not permitted on site. Water bottles will be permitted but please note glass is NOT permitted.
There will be free water points for you to refill your water bottles.
What items are not permitted at the venue?
The following items are NOT permitted on site; BBQs, dogs (except guide dogs), tents, bikes, glass.
It’s also worth noting that Mowbray Park is also a no smoking area which includes the use of electronic cigarettes.
Be aware that bag searches will also take place prior to entry into Mowbray Park, alcohol, glass and any sharp objects are not allowed and will be confiscated upon entry.
Do we get a seat with our ticket?
No, this is a standing event. Lamplight Festival has an accessible viewing area for those with disabilities and additional needs. Spaces are limited and are on a first come basis.
However, organisers are encouraging people to bring chairs and picnic rugs into the Park and there will be areas that will be designated.
The concerts are standing only and therefore please be mindful that view will be restricted in certain areas.
Is the site accessible?
Mowbray Park is accessible and has hardstanding walkways throughout the area.
The standing areas are grassed but there will be ramp access to these areas and there will be accessible toilets on site.
How the city and Kaiser Chief frontman, Ricky Wilson has reacted to Lamplight Festival…
Kaiser Chiefs frontman, Ricky Wilson expressed his delight at being the first headline act to play Lamplight Festival:
“It’s always great to be part of a new festival.
We can’t wait to, once again, play alongside Frankie and the Heartstrings as well as other great acts and to headline the Saturday stage in Sunderland.”
Back in March, Cllr Linda Williams, Portfolio Holder for Vibrant City said:
“We are thrilled to be in a position to press ahead with planning for the very first Lamplight Festival.
Of course, we will continue to monitor the local and national situation closely and understand that any changes to regulations will have to be adhered to.
“A huge effort is going on behind the scenes and we are all confident that we can deliver a brilliant weekend of music in August.
Music is such a huge part of the culture of our vibrant city and to be able to welcome back live music is truly exciting and something we are all looking forward to.”
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