Sunderland gears up for a New Year's Eve to remember with dazzling double fireworks spectacular

Sunderland is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration as the city prepares to welcome in 2026 with a free, dazzling double fireworks spectacular.

A star-studded line up, featuring former X Factor and Strictly star Fleur East, world-renowned DJ Michael Gray, Ibiza favourites Lovely Laura and Ben Santiago, and Ibiza in Symphony, will keep the crowds entertained when Keel Square comes alive with a jam-packed evening of entertainment in the heart of the city centre on Wednesday, 31 December.

The festivities kick off with live entertainment and tribute acts setting the stage for an evening to remember. Families can enjoy children's activities and soak up the atmosphere before the Community Parade brings colour and energy to the streets later that afternoon.

Expect live music from Harry Styles, Sabrina Carpenter and Abba tribute bands, children's activities from 3pm and a fantastic community parade over Keel Crossing at 5.45pm, followed by live DJ sets from Fleur East, Lovely Laura and Ben Santiago and Ibiza in Symphony and Michael Gray, ahead of two breath-taking firework displays lighting up the night sky.

At 6:30pm, the first firework display offers a family-friendly way to celebrate the New Year early. This will be followed by headline performances and live DJ sets to keep the party going. Then, as the clock strikes midnight, Sunderland will welcome 2026 in style with a second spectacular fireworks display.

Food vendors and bars will be located across Keel Square and Keel Edge and open throughout the day, ensuring plenty of options for visitors to enjoy, while the fairground in High Street West will be open from midday to 12.30am. 

Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, said: "This is a fantastic free opportunity for families, friends, and visitors to come together and celebrate the New Year in style in the heart of our city centre. With two spectacular firework displays, a fantastic community parade, live entertainment, and plenty of family friendly activities, it promises to be a wonderful night to remember."

Road Closures & Travel:
To ensure the safe delivery of the event, St Mary's Boulevard will be closed from 00:01 on 31 December until 06:00 on 1 January, including Plater Way and the left turn from Garrison Field Road.

Parking options include Riverside Car Park at a special event rate of £1 from 3pm on Wednesday 31 December until 1am on Thursday 1 January. Pre-booking is essential and can be booked at: parking portal.  There is also free parking available at the city's 'Free After 3' car parks, including the new Station Car Park in Holmeside. Normal parking charges apply at Sunniside and St. Mary's MSCP where the opening time has been extended for those coming to see the midnight fireworks. A list of the car parks and postcodes can be found here. Full details and FAQs are available on New Year's Eve Firework Spectacular - MySunderland

Best viewing spots for the fireworks:
The best viewing spots for the fireworks will be Keel Square, Keel Edge and St Mary's Boulevard.

For more information, including FAQs, visit New Year's Eve Firework Spectacular - MySunderland - or download the Sunderland app for updates.