Festivalgoers at Humber Street Sesh are being invited to look up, look around and find 25 ‘plectrum plaques’
Visitors to Humber Street Sesh in Hull are encouraged to hunt out 25 ‘plectrum plaques’ (Image: handhcomms.co.uk)
First it was toads, then came moths and puffins followed by rats. Now the people of Hull are being invited to discover some of the artists who have helped shaped the sounds of the city with a plectrum trail.
Festivalgoers at Humber Street Sesh are being invited to look up, look around and find 25 plectrum “plaques” featuring artists who have played a part in The Sesh’s story. Inspired by Hull’s much-loved public art trails and blue heritage plaques, the illustrated plectrums are hidden in a trail around Humber Street.
It is all part of a new festival-wide creative campaign encouraging audiences to lean into Hull’s DIY attitude and make stuff happen. Alongside the trail, visitors will discover playful moments and installations inspired by the simple words that have launched countless creative journeys: Go on then.
The Go on then campaign has been created by internal communications agency H&H as part of its partnership with Humber Street Sesh. Helen Bissett, founder and director of possibilities at H&H, said: “Hull is such a creative city, and it doesn’t wait for permission.
“People have an idea, make it happen and they don’t take no for an answer – whether it’s a group of mates forming a band, graffiti artists turning walls in Bankside into a grassroots art gallery, a business starting up on a shoestring or the likes of Sesh festival director Mark Page, who took a weekly showcase of music and turned it into an annual showcase of the city’s independent music.
“We wanted to capture that attitude and create something that celebrates the people and moments that make creativity possible, as well as the artists and bands – those who encourage someone to step onto a stage, play their first gig or simply crack on and have a go.” Humber Street Sesh has grown from a weekly music night into one of Hull’s biggest cultural events, welcoming around 40,000 visitors each year.
A 2026 report commissioned by HEY Creative revealed the event has generated more than £1m in social value for the city through its economic, environmental and community impact. Alongside championing local musicians, the festival works with colleges, volunteers and businesses across the region to help create opportunities for the next generation of creatives.
Helen said: “We first partnered with Humber Street Sesh in 2012, so it’s given me goosebumps to see the whole H&H team get involved this year. I’m ridiculously proud of all the creative ideas that have come to life.
“‘Go on then’ is such a simple phrase, but it can completely rewrite someone’s story – and that’s what we’d love to see happening this year, whether that’s encouraging someone to start that band or write the song, or maybe just dream a bit bigger because there’s a whole city behind them.” Elise Witty, Sesh comms and sponsorship manager, said: “It’s a real full-circle moment to welcome H&H on board, 14 years after our very first festival.
“From day one, it’s been clear this is a match made in heaven. We share the same creative vision and ambition, making them the perfect partner to help tell the story of The Sesh.
“Their energy, strategic thinking and genuine passion for Hull make them a huge asset, and we’re excited to see what we can create together.”