COUNTDOWN TO A CRACKING EASTER IN SUNDERLAND

21 March 2023

EASTER is just around the corner – but people across Sunderland can start getting “egg-cited” right now.

From 1-16 April, the city centre will be jam-packed with a whole range of activities -from Easter workshops and crafting sessions to live entertainment and markets.

And from today (March 20), everyone can find out eggs-actly what is in store by visiting the Sunderland Experience Facebook page and the Instagram account -@sunderlandexperience- where each day, a new Easter activity will be revealed as part of the Cracking Countdown to Easter.

The Sunderland Experience app will also reveal this year’s Easter Egg Trail, with seven augmented reality characters which can be tracked down across the city centre.

Along with the virtual creatures, there will also be six giant eggs scattered around the city, which have been painted and decorated by local schools, Back on the Map and Sunderland College.

Schools which have taken part include Marlborough Primary School, Newbottle Primary Academy, Eppleton Academy Primary School and Fatfield Academy, where the pupils have shown their artistic prowess.

Each egg will take pride of place in a different city centre business, with each one decorated in a unique style.

“We are excited to have such a busy Easter and that we are able to launch it so early, so people don’t miss out on any of the activities,” said Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID, which has created the programme, supported by Sunderland City Council.

“There’s lots of free fun, which we are sure will be something that parents will appreciate during the school holidays.”

An event guide to all of the activities taking place over Easter is available at https://www.sunderlandbid.co.uk/blog/easter-holidays-2023

Councillor Linda Williams, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, said: “With the countdown to Easter underway, families will be pleased to know that there is so much happening over the school holidays, with plenty that both adults and children can enjoy for free.

“This year’s virtual Easter Egg trail and giant egg hut will be a great way for people to get outside and get active while enjoying some easter fun.”