The event, taking place in Sunderland, is part of the final leg of the Putting Sunderland in The Frame festival.
It will be held at Sunniside Gardens from 10am to 3pm on September 27.
Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland’s BIDs, which include the City Centre BID and the Seafront BID, said: “Thousands of people participated in the first two events, which were a real celebration of the city’s willingness to engage with artistic initiatives.
“Cultural tourism is an important part of Sunderland’s continued growth and development and events like these – which showcases art in its widest sense – are truly inspirational.
“The fact that it coincides with the Local Heroes Food Market will make it a really memorable day.”
This event will feature the Foundations and Futures exhibition, which explores themes of identity, transformation, and community.
It will also host an art market offering conversations with artists and the chance to purchase original works.
The festival will include live music from the Houghton Brass Band, a magic performance by magician Chris Cross, and rhythms from Sacred Sound Drummers.
Atlas Theatre will bring to life Dominic Wilcox’s Office of Oddities, an improvised theatre piece filled with unusual and thought-provoking objects.
The day will also include spoken word and poetry from King Inc Spoken Word, and a Sketch Off led by artist Hannah Graham, where visitors can compete in timed drawing challenges.
For those looking to get hands-on, the Colour and Craft Studio will offer opportunities to try out different art techniques.
Let Your Soul Grow will guide visitors through activities focused on self-connection and reflection.
The Sculpture Park, featuring contemporary outdoor artworks, will remain open throughout the day.
Visitors can also interact with ARt Frames, created by Frank Styles and Culture House, which use augmented reality to let people frame themselves as living artworks.
Su Devine, artist and festival director, said: “It feels like art is acting as a powerful tool to boost local pride and bring people together.
“Connecting with others adds colour to our lives, and the variety of experiences at the Art Festival at Sunniside Gardens will capture this beautifully.
“This event is made extra special by combining the regular Local Heroes Food Market and the art café Art Market alongside the festival, as it will enable us to bring joy to every corner of this shared space.”
Putting Sunderland in the Frame is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and supported by Sunderland Culture, Culture House, Sunderland City Council, Sunderland’s BIDs and Art Café.
For more information, visit sunderlandbid.co.uk/sunderland-art-festival.
