Everything you need to know about Ipswich Music Day

Ipswich Music Day will celebrate its 35th year today

With its lengthy line-up of 49 crowd-pleasing performers, Ipswich Music Day is the biggest free one day music festival in the UK – and it returns this weekend.

Now in its 35th year, the annual arts event draws on a pool of independent musicians from across Suffolk and further afield throughout the region.

Famously, in 2009 and 2010, Framlingham schoolboy-turned-global megastar Ed Sheeran graced the stage – a stage which was once named after him.

So, if you're planning on going along to catch a glimpse of the next big music icon, here is a small guide of what you can expect and what you might need to know.

What is Ipswich Music Day?

Ed Sheeran performed at Ipswich Music Day in 2009 and 2010

Ipswich Music Day is held in the town's Christchurch Park and organised by Ipswich Borough Council.

The family-friendly event features six stages of performers celebrating all types of music alongside fairground rides, for children and adults, street food, and a marketplace.

Described as a "fantastic opportunity for up-and-coming artists", the festival provides a platform for newer artists trying their luck on a bigger stage.

How much does it cost?

Absolutely nothing. Great, right?

When is it happening and what time should I arrive?

The festival will take place on Sunday.

Guests should be able to arrive whenever they please, but the first bands will get under way at 11:45 BST.

Who is performing?

She's In Parties will perform on the BBC Suffolk stage at this year's Ipswich Music Day

This year's event offers a range of genres – from folk, country, and jazz, to rap, rock and everything in between.

The Indian Summer Mela – described as a rich and colourful celebration of Indian culture - will also be part of the event, providing live entertainment, workshops, demonstrations, and authentic Indian street food.

"This year's event promises to be more diverse than ever, so we're looking forward to showcasing some really exciting and talented artists and bands," said Ipswich Borough Council Labour leader, Neil MacDonald.

How are the artists selected?

The line-up is chosen by Ipswich Entertains and Ipswich Borough Council, which this year have had the difficult job of whittling down more than 220 applications to 49 acts.

"We received so many outstanding entries to perform at this year's event, and we'd like to thank everybody who applied," Mr MacDonald added

How can I get there?

The council is encouraging people to either walk or use public transport to get to the "busy event".

Limited on-site parking is available at a cost of £15 for the day with payment taken by cards only.

Vehicles can enter from the Park Road entrance and can park from 12:00 until 20:00.

Blue badge parking is provided for free, while the nearest alternative parking is Crown Street car park.

Can I drink alcohol?

According to the organisers of the event, "limited quantities of alcohol for personal consumption" is permitted but "excessive amounts" is not.

Glass bottles cannot be taken into the event.

Street food vendors will be available throughout the park and visitors can also take their own food.

Disposable BBQs are also not allowed.

Does the BBC have a stage?

Yes. BBC Suffolk will be present at the festival, with presenters Wayne Bavin and Angelle Joseph hosting the BBC Suffolk stage.

She's In Parties and AFTERDRIVE – both of whom are supporting Ed Sheeran at his Portman Road concerts later this month – are two of the eight great acts due to perform.

BBC Suffolk and BBC Introducing presenter Joseph said: "It's always lovely to see people in Suffolk coming out to support local music, and the fact it is free and in the middle of Ipswich makes it accessible.

"It's like no other festival."