Everything you need to know as the Summer Parade returns to South Shields
The Summer Parade is returning to South Shields this weekend.
The popular Summer Parade is returning to South Shields as it continues to be one of the key highlights of the yearly This is South Tyneside Festival.
Crowds are expected to line the streets of South Shields this weekend as the parade brings a sea of colour to the town.
Much like every year, there will also be a family fun day in Bents Park following the procession.
This is everything you need to know ahead of the Summer Parade 2026:
When will the parade take place?
The South Tyneside Summer Parade is set to take place in South Shields town centre on Saturday, July 11.
The procession will begin to head towards South Shields seafront from 1pm.
What is the route of the Summer Parade?
The Summer Parade will begin in South Shields’ Market Place before making its way along King Street.
It will continue ahead onto Ocean Road as the procession makes it way towards the seafront.
Once at the end of Ocean Road, the procession will make its way to Bents Park for the family fun day.
Will there be road closures?
South Tyneside Council has confirmed that there will be a number of road closures in place across South Shields town centre during the event.
The roads that are mostly impacted by closures are in and around the Ocean Road/seafront area.
You can view a full list of the road closures for the Summer Parade by clicking here.
What is the theme for 2026?
Each Summer Parade has a theme and that is no different for this year.
The theme for the 2026 South Tyneside Summer Parade is ‘Wild and Wonderful - Colours of Our Community’.
The event will look to celebrate the borough’s vibrance and diversity through colourful costumes created from reused and recycled materials.
As with every year, the procession will be made up of local community groups, schools and voluntary organisations from across South Tyneside.
What entertainment will there be in Bents Park?
Bents Park will be filled with family entertainment following the parade.
There will be live cooking demonstrations, performances, walkabout entertainment, and more on offer.
Full details can be found at: https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/30118/This-is-South-Tyneside-Summer-Parade.