Houghton Feast returns next month with tributes to…

Houghton Feast returns next month with tributes to Queen Elizabeth II

The Houghton Feast is set to return next month with a packed programme of activities, events and entertainment.

The theme of this year’s festival, which runs from Friday October 7 to Friday October 14, is ‘a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’ and will begin with a spectacular community show on The Broadway celebrating her decades of service to the country.

Among the community entertainment will be The Hetton Lyons Primary School choir, made up of children from Years 4, 5 and 6 from Hetton Lyons Primary School. They have been rehearsing ahead of their appearance at the opening night.

Crowds will also be entertained by local groups including Houghton Pipe Band, Zazz dancers and Houghton Area Youth Brass Band. The first night will end with the Houghton Feast illuminations being switched on by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith.

The famous Ox Roast will be returning to Houghton Feast on Saturday October 8. A roasted whole ox, which will be prepared overnight, will be served up in sandwiches in the grounds of the Old Rectory, where the first oxen were roasted by Rector Bernard Gilpin to feed Houghton's poor in the 16th century.

The ceremonial first slice will be carved by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith, and all proceeds from the sale of the tasty sandwiches will be used towards next year’s event. On Saturday October 8, visitors can watch the fantastic community parade along Newbottle Street and The Broadway from 2pm.

A firework spectacular will take place on Monday October 10 at 7.30pm and can be viewed from the area surrounding Durham Road Playing Fields.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, Chair 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."

Councillor Linda Williams, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, added: "I am delighted to see Houghton Feast back for 2022. This is a real community festival, bringing together best of local history, tradition, music and performances.

"We are delighted that once again we have been able to work in partnership with local schools and community groups, which have all played a key role in the festival."