The first pictures have emerged of boats arriving at a North East harbour ahead of the Tall Ships event beginning tomorrow.
Various vessels arrived at Hartlepool Marina today in preparation for the Tall Ships Races taking place between Thursday (July 6) and Sunday (July 9).
Those attending can expect a host of live shows, musical performances, and other festivities across the four-day extravaganza.
On Thursday, residents will be able to enjoy the official opening ceremony for the races, as well as music from Jay Moussa-Mann.
Read more: Tall Ships Races 2023: All you need to know from times to line-up
While on Friday, attendees will be able to take in the Tower of Light by Walk The Plank at Victoria Quay between 10:20-11pm.
Other events on the day include a performance from local band Maximo Park and other musical acts.
They will headline on Friday, while The Wailers will front Saturday as part of a live music bill supported by the Sherlocks and The Magic Numbers.
While Hartlepool Borough Council (HBC) has also spotlighted the Dandyism show, Guided Tour of the Waterfront Regeneration Projects at the Museum of Hartlepool Quayside, and WILD at Irvine's Quay as other worthwhile events.
Read more: Tall Ships Hartlepool: How much parking will cost at event
Meanwhile, on Saturday, event-goers will be able to take in a fireworks display on the X-energy stage, Victoria Quay, Navigation Point Stage, Jackson's Landing, and Family Beach.
Adding to this, the Tall Ships Races will begin in earnest on Sunday, starting with the Great Departure from 7am to 10am, and later the Parade of Sail.
Before their departure, the ships will parade their sails along the coast of Hartlepool travelling north from 1-3pm, which can be viewed from many coastal locations. The official race start time is 4pm.
The departure will be the conclusion of days of entertainment, with two main stages planned at Victoria Quay (X-Energy stage) and Navigation Point.
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More than 50 other live music performers have been announced, including some of the North-East’s top talent such as Michael Gallagher, James Leonard Hewitson and John Bramwell.
More information on the events can be found here.
Here are some of the pictures from the day:
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