Fun-filled half-term activities in Sunderland

There is a range of free activities for youngsters to enjoy at Sunderland libraries this half-term.

The family friendly fun will run from 23 - 30 May at the Creative Smart City Hubs at Houghton and Washington libraries, as well as City Library at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens.

Across the week, there will be activity for 0 - 16-year-olds, to keep them busy during the school holidays.

Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy and Place at Sunderland City Council, said: "The free sessions for young people during the school holidays will provide the opportunity for them to have fun and get creative, highlighting the fantastic things to do at our city's libraries."

The programme gets underway on 23 May with a celebration of National Share-a-Story Month as author Katie Scorah takes part in Saturday Stories at the Houghton hub. Perfect for ages 3-8, but all are welcome, attendees can listen to Katie's debut novel The Ship's Cat and take part in an exciting craft. The session will run at the Washington hub on 30 May.

The Washington and Houghton hubs will also each have a Family Film Club session showing a selection of 13 short films from animation legends Pixar, including award winners and appearances from some well-loved characters.

Both venues will have CraftCore events where 11-16-year-olds can take part in a variety of crafts. And all three sites will have insect themed craft sessions for all ages to celebrate spring.

For those under four, the Houghton hub and City Library will be running their regular weekly Rhyme and Shine sessions, creating opportunities for little ones to sing, dance and play musical instruments, with a shared story time at the end.

Story Explorers with Ashleigh Lowes will take place at the Washington hub on 26 May, providing a fun-filled session of music and storytelling for those five and under - and their grown ups.

Young people aged 11 to 16 can delve into adventure with Dungeons and Dragons at the hub on 29 May. Open to any level of experience, from novices to seasoned adventurers, spaces are limited so booking is recommended.

As well as the free programme, the popular MakerSpace workshops are returning to Washington on 29 May, with the chance for those 12+ to learn the basics of 3D modelling by designing their own fidget spinner and watching their creation being made on a 3D printer.

More information on all these events can be found at www.culturehousesunderland.co.uk/events