Illuminations to 'put sparkle' back in city

The annual tradition of Sunderland Illuminations is set to continue this year – but there will be no Festival in Light in 2020 due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

From now, Roker and Seaburn seafront will be lit up as the annual lights are switched on for Wearside families to enjoy.

The lighting has been installed all the way along Roker Terrace and Whitburn Road, but the pandemic has meant there will be a change to this year’s event.

There will be no activities to coincide with the Illuminations along the seafront and the Festival of Light will not go ahead in Mowbray Park in Sunderland city centre.

Councillor Linda Williams, Portfolio Holder for Vibrant City, said: "Obviously we are all disappointed that due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic we can't host events such as the wonderful Festival of Light this year, so I am very happy that Sunderland Illuminations will be returning this October to help put the sparkle back in our vibrant city. "We want residents to enjoy the Illuminations, but would like to remind everyone to continue following the latest Government advice and restrictions to help keep Sunderland a safe place." Earlier this week the council confirmed that the Remembrance Parade and service will be held via an online event.

The council confirmed that the Sunderland Illuminations’ lights will remain switched on until early 2021 and will only be turned off on Remembrance Sunday (November 8), as mark of respect.