THOUSANDS will head to Christchurch Park this Sunday to lose themselves in a world of music.

One of the most popular dates on the Ip-art calendar, Ipswich Music Day is one of the largest, free, one-day music events in the country.

Now in its 19th year, visitors can enjoy six stages of live music as well as classical performances in the mansion and nearby St Margaret’s Church.

Ipswich Borough Council and an army of suppliers, performers and organisations such as Ipswich Arts Association and Heart have ensured there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

With every type of music imaginable – including classical, rock and pop among others – craft stalls, children’s fairground and activites, a chill-out zone, impromtu jam sessions and more, the park will come alive from noon to 8pm. Another highlight of the day will be the Colourdome – a multi-chambered labyrinth of colour and sound.

Between 30,000 and 35,000 people are expected to enjoy the best of local talent in the glorious surroundings.

Ip-art 2010 doesn’t end with music day, though, with venues around the town hosting a wide range of music, theatre, comedy, visual arts and literary events until July 11.

The park will also host many other events including Big Friday starring Diversity, Jedward, Stacey Solomon, Jamie Archer and Danyl Johnson; Proms in the Park with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and open air cinema – including Grease on July 8.

Rapidly becoming the second most popular event of the festival is the Ipswich and Suffolk Indian Association’s fifth Indian Summer Mela, featuring dance, songs, poety, music and stalls on the final day.

Andrew Cann, Ipswich Borough Council’s culture portfolio holder, said: “The council, in partnership with the private, public and third sector, works hard to offer an exciting programme of events throughout the year.

“We have a lot to live up to in 2010, after Ip-art won the Tourism Event of the Year at the East of England Regional Awards for Excellence. I would like to thank principal festival sponsor National Express, Music Day sponsors and all our suppliers for their support and hope as many people as possible are able to enjoy Ip-art’s other events the town has to offer this summer.”

n www.ip-art.com