SMILES beaming on their faces and hands poised to order their pint through an app, people across the region flocked to outdoor venues on Monday.
The first day of new rules which meant pubs, restaurants and cafes could serve food and drink outdoors, came into force across England at midnight.
Read more: Shoppers returned and beer gardens opened - as it happened across the North-East
Across the region, venues had already been preparing with some transforming unused space into beer gardens and established beer gardens putting up marquees.
But after more than three months of lockdown restrictions, they were once again ready as they prepared to welcome customers back.
From early doors on Monday, pub-goers and foodie fans alike set up shop as many were keen to secure their spot on an outdoor table.
Read more: The lockdown rules that we can look forward to easing on May 17
Venues reported being inundated with bookings as those lucky to find a table could not hide their excitement for the return of hospitality.
So we've put together a collection of pictures from across the region which captured the spirit of those returning after lockdown.
Take a look below
Drinkers outside the Champagne Bar in Durham City Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Restaurant go-ers on Elvet Bridge in Durham City Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Revellers waiting for their meal outside Tango in Durham City Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
The Boat Club and Tomahawk have erected a marquee by its riverside venue in Durham City Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Pubs and restaurants were busy yesterday in Northallerton, North Yorkshire Picture: STUART BOULTON
A waitress brings out drinks at an outdoor venue in Northallerton, North Yorkshire Picture: STUART BOULTON
Friends meet at an outdoor venue in Northallerton, North Yorkshire Picture: STUART BOULTON
A marquee has been set up at the Nag's Head in Northallerton, North Yorkshire Picture: STUART BOULTON
Landlady Sarah Cummings serving customers at the outdoor part of the Nag's Head in Northallerton Picture: STUART BOULTON
Customers enjoy a pint and a meal at The Cooper Rose's new on street beer garden in Sunderland Picture: NORTH NEWS
A thumbs up from this very happy punter at The Cooper Rose in Sunderland Picture: NORTH NEWS
Queues formed outside Wetherspoon's only outdoor Durham venue, The Bishop's Mill pub Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Pub manager, Guy Stoker at the Wetherspoon The Bishop's Mill pub Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Three very happy customers at the Wetherspoon The Bishop's Mill pub Picture: GAVIN HAVERY
Joanne Jubb and Kellt Thubron outside The Pennyweight in Darlington town centre RACHEL CONNER-HILL
Darlington's market square has been transformed to include outdoor seating for venues including the Hole in the Wall and Dolphin Centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
Jim from Darlington enjoying a pint outside the Boot & Shoe in the town centre Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT
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