Summer Tyne, a festival of music and art, kicks off in Newcastle upon Tyne on Friday 18th July at 22:00 when a specially constructed temporary bamboo and steel bridge over the River Tyne, is officially completed. This will be the longest bridge of this type to be built. Two riggers will traverse the bridge, lighting flames along the sides of the bridge as they progress, until they meet in the middle. This event is free.

On 19 – 20 July there is a free outdoor daytime programme with Latin and Caribbean music. Things really hot up in the evenings with Latin Dance parties on 19 and 20 July. The Americana weekend takes place 26 – 27 July.

So if you’re looking for some sizzling Summer fun, head for Newcastle.