Magnificent Seven: petrol heads, festival goers and athletics fans are going to love these spring and summer events

Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) and the incredibly popular Supercar Saturday will be returning for another year, while world-class athletes will be heading to Stockton High Street and Riverside for the Great North CityGames this summer.

The events programme will also bring thrilling outdoor arts and theatre, cycling, music, comedy and free entertainment for the whole family to look forward to.

Councillor Norma Wilburn, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, said: "The 2019 programme is shaping up to be the best yet, with new and returning events offering something for everyone.

"Last year we introduced Supercar Saturday which was a huge hit with car enthusiasts of all ages so we're delighted to host the event on Stockton High Street again. Of course, our events calendar wouldn't be complete without signature events returning for another year.

"Stockton International Riverside Festival will take centre stage again in August, but we've also got lots of exciting sporting events and specialist markets coming up which are always hugely popular. Keep an eye on our events pages and social media so that you don't miss out."

Here's just a taste of what's to come:

Supercar Saturday: Stockton High Street

Saturday 4 May, 10am - 4pm

Stockton town centre will once again become a hive of activity for lovers of vintage, classic and racing cars at this free, family-friendly event.

In association with JPC Specialist Motorsports, Supercar Saturday will showcase a vast display of high power performance vehicles including sports cars, American muscle cars and prestige marques. Motoring fanatics can also see and hear the vehicles in action as they convoy in two laps around the High Street. 

Specialist markets: Stockton town centre                                                                           

Various dates

Antiques, retro ware, collectables, vintage and quality gifts will all be on offer at the ever-popular Chic Vintique market from 10am - 4pm on Saturday 6 April, while the Record Fair will return with a range of rare CDs and music memorabilia from 10am - 4pm on Saturday, 1 June.

The comic book-themed KAPOW Sci-Fi Market in the High Street marquee on Saturday, 6 July will host of traders selling sci-fi, TV and film related toys, action figures and collectables for all sci-fi fans.  

Stockton Stages: Stockton town centre

Thursday 6 June - Saturday 8 June

Now in its third year, Stockton Stages music and comedy festival offers free and ticketed performances in venues across Stockton town centre, including ARC and KU Bar. A thrilling array of live talent will be on offer, as well as free family entertainment on Stockton High Street.

Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle Show: Preston Park Museum and Grounds

Saturday 29 June and Sunday 30 June

Over 300 vehicles of all types will be on display at Preston Park, including the largest number of restored fire appliances in one place in the North of England. Enjoy live motoring displays and performances, plus plenty of fun activities to entertain the whole family throughout the weekend. 

Stockton Cycling Festival: Stockton town centre and Riverside

Saturday 13 July and Sunday 14 July

Riders of all abilities can sign up for RideStockton on Sunday 14 July, a free and unique chance to ride around Stockton Riverside on traffic-free roads. Visitors can also watch Britain's top cycling teams and riders compete in Stockton Grand Prix.

A host of family activities will take place throughout the day in the Events Village, and some of the UK's best stunt riders will go head-to-head in the Extreme Bike Battle stunt show. 

The action gets under way with the Sportive on Saturday 13 July, offering cyclists of all ability the chance to take part in a choice of four routes ranging from 36 to 106 miles. Every ride departs from Stockton Riverside with an escorted start, just like the 'Tour De France', and the routes take in the beautiful scenery of the North Yorkshire Moors.

Stockton International Riverside Festival: Stockton town centre 

Thursday 1 August - Sunday 4 August

Now in its 32nd year, Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) showcases the very best international street theatre, dance, circus and music acts with a packed programme of performances and the colourful Community Carnival.

The free, four-day festival will take place across Stockton town centre and Riverside. For more information visit www.sirf.co.uk