A 10-day annual North East festival is set to return with a full programme of events.
Houghton Feast, a tradition dating back centuries, will take place in the town from Friday (October 2) to Sunday, October 11.
The festival celebrates Houghton’s heritage, culture, and community spirit, bringing together residents, families, and visitors for a packed schedule of entertainment.
(Image: Sunderland City Council)
Long-standing favourites will return, including the fairground, ox roast, carnival parade, and fireworks, alongside community events, exhibitions, talks, and tours.
The feast will begin at 6pm on Friday, October 2 with an opening ceremony on The Broadway.
This will feature entertainment from Houghton Pipe Band, Zazz dancers, The Voice of Houghton, and the Houghton Feast Children’s Choir, followed by the official switch-on of the Houghton Feast illuminations by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Robert Hutchinson.
Saturday, October 3 will see the return of the traditional ox roast, which will be served from 12pm in the grounds of The Old Rectory.
The ox roast tradition dates back to the 16th century when Rector Bernard Gilpin roasted oxen to feed Houghton’s poor.
The community carnival parade will follow at 2pm, featuring brass bands, dancers, costumed characters, floats, and classic vehicles as it travels along Newbottle Street to The Broadway.
Annual Carnival Parade at Houghton Feast, 2025. (Image: STUART BOULTON)
On Monday, October 5, crowds can enjoy the Houghton Feast Fireworks Night, with the display visible from Durham Road from 7pm.
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Councillor Ciera Hudspith, cabinet member for culture, tourism and heritage at Sunderland City Council, said: "Houghton Feast is a unique part of our city's heritage and a tradition that continues to bring people together year after year.
"It's a celebration of the town's history, community spirit and identity, and it's fantastic to see generations of families returning to enjoy it."
Councillor Hudspith said the festival "combines the traditions that make the Feast so special" with a varied programme of community events and activities.