IT WILL be Lights Out at the city of lights, as Sunderland prepares to welcome the spookiest festival the region has ever seen.
From 25 October to 3 November the city will be alive with things that go bump in the night, scary installations and a range of family-frightening activities.
Lights Out is being created by Sunderland BID along with Sunderland City Council, the Bridges, Gentoo, University of Sunderland and Sunderland College.
The festival will offer entertainment for all ages, culminating in a community parade bringing together groups from across the city on the final weekend.
Torchlight city tours, glass pumpkin making workshops and Halloween art zine workshops at Sunderland Culture, spooky pub quizzes, fright night cinema and a trick and treat trail through the Bridges are just some of the many events planned across the city.
A range of free and paid for activities for children will take place across a number of locations including at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and the National Glass Centre.
Sharon Appleby, Head of Business Operations at Sunderland BID, said plans were now well underway to create a “spooktacular” programme.
“Lights Out really is going to be something special and we’re working with some amazing groups to bring a memorable 10 days which we hope people will come from across the region to enjoy,” she said.
“It’s fantastic that so many leading businesses and organisations have got behind this event and will be bringing their own particular expertise to turn it into something for all ages.”
Cllr John Kelly, Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for Communities and Culture, said: “Lights Out is a fantastic new addition to Sunderland’s events calendar.
“We’re always looking to work with our partners in the city to deliver new and exciting events for our residents, and also to encourage visitors into the city, and this is a great example of that.
“There are lots of activities planned, so whether it’s seriously scary for the adults, or Halloween fun for the kids, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.”
Anyone interested is advised to regularly check Sunderland BID’s website – www.sunderlandbid.co.uk– for the details of the events happening each day.