Opening day celebrations offered the first chance to explore what’s going on at the Exhibition hubs and along the trails.

The event was streamed live by BBC Arts, including hightlights throughout the day as well as the main event.

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Launching with the sound of Teesdale-based artist Steve Messam’s Whistle which resounded across the city, our Great Exhibition of the North trails and venues were officially opened to start exploring. Visitor’s experienced for the very first time each of the three hub venues, all 30 locations along the trails and pop-up events and venues remained open until dusk fell.

A whirl of colour, live music from bands and choirs, dance, animation and performances by imaginative entertainers from across the North will spilled onto the streets along the Quayside.

Graham Massey and Mr Wilson’s Second Liners kept the party rolling ahead of the Opening Event at 10pm.

His electro-based spectacle, GIANT glitter ball and the lively Second Liners who were hot-stepping out in uniformed style as they channeled the spirit of the 24-hour party people. Did you know: Second Lining is a quintessential New Orleans art form: following the band to enjoy the music, marching and dancing. It is a full-on street intervention. If we’re lucky enough to be caught up in the commotion, you’re part of the Second Line.

Audiences lined the Quayside to witness the first dramatic display of the UK’s largest water sculptures on the River Tyne which will also perform every day throughout the 80 days of the exhibition.

This 80m long fountain performed to a soundtrack of three specially commissioned music compositions by Maximo Park and Kate Rusby with Royal Northern Sinfonia and Darkstar.

Mercury prize nominated northern rock band, Maximo Park, will be performing live from the River Tyne.

A new anthem for the North was unveiled and performed live by renowned writer, poet and playwright Lemn Sissay.