Tens of thousands of people will be on the streets of Durham this weekend for the 138th Big Meeting.

Durham Miners’ Gala is largest trade union rally of its kind in Europe and features parade of banners from former colliery communities across the country.

Brass band music fills the air before political speeches are made on the Racecourse with family fun and entertainment for all.

Here are the key timings to help you plan your day:

8.30am Banner groups and bands gather in Durham city centre’s Market Place.

Other assembly points include Whitechurch pub on the west of the city. 

From the initial assembly points, groups proceed towards a focal point of the Gala – the County Hotel at Old Elvet.

The procession can take a few hours to pass the County Hotel due to the huge numbers attending and the frequent pauses at the hotel for bands to play their ‘party piece’.  

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1pm Durham Miners’ Association chairman Stephen Guy opens The Big Meeting, and guest speakers address the crowd.

2.30pm The procession of bands and banners begins making its way to Durham Cathedral.

3pm New banners are blessed during the Miners’ Festival Service at Durham Cathedral.