It’s an important part of the North East’s heritage, and a unique experience. Here are some aspects you might recognise if you’re a regular at the Big Meeting.
1. Dancing to the brass bands
Especially as the day goes on and the bands bring out the pop songs. Who hasn't had a boogie to Valerie on Gala day? Photo: Kevin Brady
2. Pints for breakfast
Everyone knows there are only two occasions when it is acceptable to have a pint for breakfast: at the airport at 5am before you go on holiday, and before the big meeting. Photo: David Allan
3. Singing "Oh Jeremy Corbym"
This year will be the fourth on the trot that Mr Corbyn will be speaking at the Gala, and the chants of ‘Ooooh Jeremy Corbyn’ get louder every year. Photo: JPIMedia
4. Waiting (and waiting and waiting) for speeches to start
‘Speeches start at one’ the programme gleefully states every year, but all regular Gala goers know this is rarely the case. Just pray it doesn’t rain and sit tight. Photo: Press Association