An exciting new landmark is set to position Sunderland at the forefront of arts, culture and innovation.
Located at the heart of the Riverside Sunderland regeneration, the Expo Sunderland Pavilion – delivered in collaboration with Culture House – is home to one of the UK’s largest semi-transparent LED screens, measuring an impressive 20m x 5m.
More than just a screen, this state-of-the-art digital display is a fun, interactive platform powered by 5G, transforming public engagement through real-time, audience-driven experiences.
Featuring three 360º cameras, integrated sound and dynamic digital signage, it responds to movement and interaction. These cameras can be taken to venues across the city and region, live-streaming content directly to the screen and creating an ever-evolving public showcase.
From 25th February 2025, the screen will debut an exciting programme featuring interactive experiences, family-friendly activities, cutting-edge tech content and multimedia showcases from global artists, as an introduction to Culture House, turning Sunderland into a hub of digital creativity.
Alongside the screen, the Pavilion will provide a vibrant space for cultural engagement, hosting a diverse programme of activities that reflect Sunderland’s emerging creative and digital innovation.
Live events, interactive installations and community-driven experiences will bring people together to explore new ideas and emerging trends.
Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, explained: “The Expo Sunderland Pavilion is a dynamic reflection of our city’s ever-changing landscape.
“This space will bring to life amazing multimedia displays with an array of arts, culture, music and interactive technologies, offering visitors and residents the chance to connect with new ideas that shape the way we live, work and play. It’s a space where creativity meets technology, inspiring residents and visitors alike to imagine a brighter future.”
As part of Sunderland’s Smart City strategy, the Pavilion is connected to 5G, unlocking next-generation experiences through high-speed, low-latency connectivity. This advanced technology powers:
- Live 360º video broadcasts for real-time storytelling
- Immersive digital displays that evolve with the audience
- Interactive experiences where motion-based visuals respond to visitors
- A semi-transparent LED screen with a holographic effect, bringing creativity to life
Spearheaded by Sunderland City Council in collaboration in the North East Combined Authority, the Pavilion is part of an investment from The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s (DSIT) ‘5G Innovation Regions (5GIR)’ programme.
This funding is accelerating advanced wireless connectivity across the North East, with the Pavilion standing as a shining example of how technology and culture can intersect to create shared experiences.
From families seeking unique cultural experiences to creatives exploring the future of storytelling, the Expo Sunderland Pavilion is an inclusive space that invites everyone to engage with groundbreaking ideas.
Its evolving programme will continue to surprise and inspire throughout 2025, with major announcements expected in the spring and summer.
The Pavilion is a space for everyone to explore their ideas. Whether you’re passionate about arts and culture, intrigued by smart technologies or simply curious about the future of living, the Pavilion has something for you.
Kath MacLeod, Director of External Relations at the University of Sunderland, Expo Sunderland’s Headline Sponsor, said: “The Expo Sunderland Pavillion is another fantastic addition to the City Centre, making Sunderland an even more vibrant place for everyone who lives, works and studies here.
“We’re looking forward to showcasing what’s happening at the University, from celebrating our amazing graduates, to sharing the work of our creative industries students or the results of research projects that are having a real impact on our community.”
To stay updated on the latest events and announcements, visit www.exposunderland.com/expo-pavilion and follow @ExpoSunderland on Instagram and Facebook.
