CARLISLE’S ‘biggest music event of the year’ kicked off in style on Friday, June 6.

The two-day event saw music icons from the likes of Craig David, Gabrielle, Dizzee Rascal and Sigala take the stage at Brunton Park.

I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the action, organised by Whitehaven company, Platinum Live, on opening night. 

With doors opening at 4pm, ticket holders were welcomed by a vibrant setup. There were food and drink stalls, stands selling sunglasses and bucket hats, and crowds glammed up in glitter and cowboy boots.

I made my way over to the array of food stalls and opted for The Hash Stack which served a variety of loaded hash brown dishes. I picked up the ‘Mac Attack’ for only £10.

Mac Attack meal and the variety of food stalls.Mac Attack meal and the variety of food stalls. (Image: Sophie Swain) READ MORE: Carlisle Weekender comes to an end after two star-studded days

While I was enjoying my food, local DJ, Summer Evo took to the stage to set the party in motion. 

Luck was on our side as the sun shone for Simon Kennedy delivering his trademark blend of funk and blues, before Liam Parkins, kitted out in a Carlisle United t-shirt – fitting for the venue - ramped the beats up a notch.

Wes Nelson singing to the crowd.Wes Nelson singing to the crowd. (Image: Sophie Swain) Warmed up by now, the crowd moved forward for singer/songwriter, and TV personality Wes Nelson’s act. Wes and the team said their six-hour journey was “worth it” as they performed hits such as ‘Yellow’ and ‘Nice To Meet Ya’.

Popular DJ and record producer, Sigala, continued the party with ‘Came Here for Love,’ ‘Sweet Lovin’ and ‘Just Got Paid’ which saw the crowd bouncing to the beats.

Finally, pop legend Craig David ended the night with his TS5 show. 
He played ‘7 Days,’ and ‘Re-ReWind’ as well as some unexpected remixes such as Justin Biebers ‘Love Yourself’ which got everyone singing. 

Craig David takes to the stage.Craig David takes to the stage. (Image: Sophie Swain) Before leaving the stage, Craig David spoke to the crowd. He said: “It's a privilege and a pleasure to be here Carlisle.

"You could’ve gone anywhere tonight but you chose to come here so thank you. I hope you all made some core memories tonight – I know I did!”

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Comments on social media about opening night included: “It was such a great night, the events team should be proud of their work.

“It was brilliant.

“Great night for the people who attended couldn't fault the event at all.

“[It] would be good to see more like this in Carlisle.”