FUN in the sun will be on offer this summer as Sunderland introduces its new pop-up park in the city centre.
The family friendly space at the heart of Keel Square is hosting a packed programme of activities for children on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the school summer holidays.
And there is something for everyone, from cooking demonstrations and crafts to games and lively keep-fit sessions.
On Mondays, children can enjoy Fun in the SUN sessions, which will have arts, crafts and games, while the Sunderland “Taste” Experience will be the theme for Wednesdays.
This includes cooking demonstrations, grow-your-own sessions for green fingered youngsters and other healthy eating-inspired activities.
On Saturdays, the theme will be Wake-up, Shake-up, with physical activities, sports games and other keep-fit entertainment.
The pop-up park initiative is part of a wider programme of activities organised by Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council with the support of local businesses and organisations.
These include the City Library, creative play experts ARTventurers, WEARfit, Everyone Active and Chef Matei from Posh Street Food.
And it is part of a wider programme of summer activities organised by the BID and Sunderland City Council throughout the summer.
On 22 July, a Roller Rink will arrive Keel Square, open daily from 11am to 8pm with special sessions themed to pay tribute to music across the decades.
And from 25 July to 4 September the city centre will host free workshops, a climbing wall and trampolines for just 50p each, an AR trail and much more.
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, said the emphasis was “on much needed summer fun.
“A lot of people are choosing to stay at home this summer and who can blame them with the fantastic weather we’ve been having,” she said.
“Everyone knows that happy and entertained children equals happy parents – and that’s where our pop up park comes in, with fun and games and plenty of fresh air.”
Councillor Linda Williams, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for Vibrant City, said: “There is so much to enjoy in Sunderland this Summer and truly something for everyone, whether you’re interested in sports, arts and crafts or food.
“The programme of events on offer at the Pop-up park in Keel Square is sure to be a hit with families and I look forward to seeing lots of people out enjoying the activities.”
Activities at the pop-up park will be held between 11am and 3pm and more information is available at https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/events/summer-city