From S&DR200 to SIRF: Here's seven unmissable events to look forward to in 2025 in Stockton-on-Tees!
Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) and Stockton and Darlington Railway Bicentenary are just two of the exciting festivals and events you don't want to miss in Stockton-on-Tees Borough this year.
And with the 80 Anniversary of VE Day and the second Stockton-on-Tees Environment Fair, plus the much-loved Stockton Sparkles, there really is lots for residents to look forward to in 2025!
Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: "This year's exciting events programme kicks off with the celebration of the bicentenary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway - a world-changing historical event, which marked the birth of the modern railway. The nine-month S&DR200 Festival which takes place across Stockton, Darlington and County Durham from March to November, is inspired by the first passenger journey which went on to connect places, people and communities.
"Of course, SIRF remains the jewel in the crown of our events offer and attracts visitors from far and wide, providing our residents with the opportunity to enjoy world-class street performance, dance, music and outdoor arts for free.
"This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, and to commemorate this monumental moment in history we are holding a special beacon lighting ceremony in Parish Gardens, along with various events happening across the Borough to remember those who gave their lives and sacrificed so much to bring peace. There will also be opportunity to honour the military personal who serve and have served their country in this year's Armed Forces Day in June. Building on the success of last year's event this promises to be another great chance to find out about the past, present and future of the military and show our thanks.
"And if that's not enough there's a whole range of other events taking place across the Borough throughout the coming months, so make sure to visit the Visit Tees Valley website to find out more!"
Here are seven events coming soon:
S&DR200 Festival
March to November
Stockton, Darlington and County Durham
S&DR200 is a nine-month international festival taking place to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the first passenger journey on the Stockton and Darlington Railway.
The S&DR200 festival will present a series of large-scale outdoor events, exhibitions and new art commissions in public spaces, libraries, and museums, including Preston Park Museum. A re-enactment of the 1825 journey, with a newly renovated replica of Locomotion No.1 on sections of the original railway line is expected to take place on September 26, 27 and 28.
Community organisations can celebrate this special year in their own unique way with the S&DR200 Fringe Festival, including a series of walks by the Friends of Stockton & Darlington Railway.
To find out more about the programme and keep in touch with all the latest programme announcements and updates visit the S&DR200 website. .
VE Day - 80th Anniversary
Thursday, 8 May
Parish Gardens, Stockton Town Centre
VE Day 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, and we will join those lighting beacons across the UK with a special lighting ceremony in Parish Gardens. There will also be various events across the Borough.
Stockton-on-Tees Environment Fair
Saturday, 14 June
Stockton High Street
Pop down to the second Stockton-on-Tees Environment Fair where you can explore a range of ways to live more sustainably in the Borough.
The special fair is part of national Great Big Green Week which celebrates community action to tackle climate change and protect nature.
Armed Forces Day
Saturday, 21 June
Stockton High Street
Find out about the past, present and future of our Armed Forces on the Borough's Armed Forces Day which will take place on Saturday 21 June.
Building on the success of last year's event it include activities, entertainment plus information stalls from the military and other partner organisations.
SIRF 2025
Friday, 1 August until Sunday, 3 August
Stockton Town Centre
Prepare to be entertained as the world-renowned Stockton International Riverside Festival returns this summer, with plenty of fun and excitement for all the family.
The North East's best FREE to enjoy outdoor arts and street theatre festival will once again be filling the streets of Stockton with a jam-packed programme of music, circus, dance and more.
SIRF 25 brings together some world class artists from France, Korea, Catalonia, Belgium, with some of the newest street theatre from the UK and the Tees Valley. With over 100 shows taking place over the weekend you can be sure you will find something you enjoy.
SIRF returns for three days of jaw-dropping street theatre, music, dance and outdoor arts for all ages to enjoy.
The ever-popular Community Carnival also returns on Sunday, August 3, which will fill the High Street with vibrant colours and carnival music.
Festival of Thrift
20 and 21 September
Billingham Town Centre and John Whitehead Park
Festival of Thrift, a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and community spirit, is set to return to the Borough on Saturday, September 20, and Sunday, September 21.
The festival will take place in Billingham Town Centre and John Whitehead Park. Festivalgoers will be treated to performances, activities, culinary delights, live music and shared community experiences.
Stockton Sparkles
Thursday, 27 November until Sunday, 7 December
Stockton High Street
The much-loved Stockton Sparkles returns with a feast of festive fun and entertainment, bringing Christmas cheer for all the family over two weekends.
Join us on Thursday 27 November from 5pm for the launch night, with an evening full of live music and entertainment, hot food and drinks, and of course the Christmas light switch-on. And don't miss Sparkles Christmas Market, the dazzling Lantern Parade and more during the always popular festival!
For more information on these five fantastic events and other things to see and do in Stockton-on-Tees Borough in 2025 visit the Visit Tees Valley website.
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