Houghton Feast is back this year and is promising to entertain thousands of families from far and wide.
The historic festival held every October in the town, between Durham and Sunderland, will return this weekend.
Dating back to the 12th century, the popular ten-day event will include roasting of a whole ox, a fairground, church events, carnival parade, shows, music, dance, community events, exhibitions, talks, tours, fireworks and more.
So The Northern Echo has put together a short guide on what you need to know and what to expect.
When does it all start?
This Friday and will be launched with a spectacular community show in The Broadway.
Houghton Pipe Band, Zazz dancers, Houghton Area Youth Brass Band, and The Houghton Feast Children’s Choir will entertain crowds.
At the end the Houghton Feast illuminations will be switched on by Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith, as those assembled sing the National Anthem.
It is held at the Broadway, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 4BB from 7pm-8pm. Car parking is available at Station Road on DH 4 5AH.
Tell me more about Ox roasting?
A whole ox is slowly roasted over-night, giving the tasty beef a delicious flavour and it is served in a freshly baked bread bun.
Sandwiches go on sale at Houghton Feast at 1pm on Saturday October 8 at The Old Rectory in Rectory Park, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 4BB
Cash or card accepted on the day. You can also pre-pay online at www.oxsarnies.com
What is happening on Saturday, October 8?
A popular community parade will make its way along Newbottle Street and The Broadway from 2pm.
What about on Monday?
A fireworks display at 7.30pm and can be viewed from the area surrounding Durham Road Playing Fields.
What can we expect at the fun fair?
All the fun of the fair including the latest thrill rides, including dodgems, waltzers, Jump ‘n’ Smile Frogs, Miami and Tagada, plus family favourites including hook-a-duck, hoopla and side stalls.
The Houghton Feast fun fair is organised by John Murphy of the Showmen’s Guild (Northern Section) on Rectory Field for the duration of the festival.
The address is: Dairy Lane, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 5BH.
Sounds lively. Are there any more sedate activities?
The historical heart of The Houghton Feast, St Michael’s Church, opening its doors so people can take time out from the festivities in the nearby Broadway on Saturday October 8 from 10.30am-3.30pm.
Visitors can pay a visit to the tomb of Bernard Gilpin, who started the ox roasting tradition in the 16th Century, and discover the secrets of the ancient building on the informative display boards throughout.
Free admission. Parking at Brinkburn Crescent, DH4 5HA
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What else is there to do?
Historical items from the collection of the late Councillor John Mawston, former Mayor of Sunderland and Chairman of The Houghton Feast Steering Committee, will be on display at Houghton Library for the duration of the Houghton Platinum Jubilee Feast.
Some of the items are very rare and include: Houghton Area Office ceremonial stone-laying mallet, leather-bound Freedom of the City of Sunderland scroll, Houghton Urban District Council trinkets and visitors’ book plus the Mayor of Sunderland 1987/8 photo album.
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When is the Houghton Feast Civic Service?
A grand service of thanksgiving for community life is held at the parish church of St Michael & All Angels.
This year, the Bishop of Jarrow, the Right Reverend Sarah Clark will be the preacher.
The service will also be attended by civic dignitaries, public servants and the people of Houghton-le-Spring. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Houghton Parish Church is on Church Street, DH4 4DN
It is on Sunday October 9 at 10:30am. Parking available at the Imperial Buildings, DH4 4DJ.
Is there is a theme for this year’s event?
This year the even is being dedicated to the late Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of her lifetime of service.
What do organisers say?
Sunderland City Councillor Kevin Johnston, chairman of Houghton Feast Steering Committee, said: "Houghton Feast is a fantastic event that has been bringing our community together for centuries, and I know so many people look forward to it every autumn.
“This year we have a schedule full of brilliant activities and performances including a spectacular opening night, community parade and the famous roasting of the ox."
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