Rugby fans turned out in their thousands to soak up the atmosphere as Newcastle Falcons took on Sale Sharks in the Big One.
Newcastle's professional rugby union side faced their opponents at St James' Park on Saturday.
But before that, scores of people gathered at the fan plaza set up on Strawberry Place, where they enjoyed live music as well as food and drink from a string of stalls.
Fans were able to take pictures with the European Rugby Challenge Cup and the Heineken Champions Cup, which were on display, and buy merchandise.
And youngsters were kept entertained with bouncy castles, face painting, balloon modelling and bubbles.
Among the visitors were Laurie Richardson, of Gateshead, who was there with her family.
She said: "We are fans of the Newcastle Falcons, we have season tickets. We are very excited about the game.
"The children are enjoying themselves and the atmosphere is great. It's a great idea to have activities like this before the game."
Also at the fan plaza was Jamie Spence, of Gateshead, with his six-year-old son Steven.
He said: "We go to Falcons games all the time and we can't wait for this match. Steven loves rugby and he is looking forward to it.
"But it's a great day out all together, with a good atmosphere - it's buzzing."
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Zoe and John Auld, from Blyth, came along with their son Freddy, 10, and his pal Connor, nine.
John said: "Zoe got tickets through work and we thought it would be a good day out. The children are enjoying it.
"If the Falcons win, it's a bonus."
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