IT’S HAPPENINGIN SUNDERLAND
We are creating a vibrant city with opportunities for everyone.
Access invaluable business support, learn about how our city is developing, access an array of fantastic events and see everything that’s #HappeningInSunderland – all in one place.
WE’RE IMPROVING
SUNDERLAND
We are working to create a city we can all be proud of. Our priorities ensure our goals are met and we are accountable for the promises we make.
These priorities represent our driving force to build a safe, clean & attractive environment, to ensure our city business voices are heard at the highest levels, and to raise Sunderland’s profile regionally and nationally.
PRIDE
We are changing perceptions and building civic pride in our city centre, enhancing and celebrating the unique character and appeal of the seafront by ensuring our city is a welcoming, safe, clean, and attractive environment for everyone.
VOICE
We provide a robust and collective voice for our businesses at the highest level to make good things happen to improve Sunderland’s trading environment as well as amplifying the needs, concerns, and aspirations of our city businesses.
PROMOTION
We raise the profile of Sunderland as a destination regionally and nationally and create a year-round programme of city-wide marketing activities, high-profile events, and promotional campaigns.
AFFILIATEMEMBERSHIPS
Therefore, we have extended many of the benefits our levy payers enjoy to other businesses around Sunderland by creating an Affiliate Scheme.
All businesses can partner with Sunderland BID to help shape a bright future for our city in a non-voting capacity. Affiliates of the BID will not be able to join the BID’s Board of Directors, but you can enjoy appropriate services and get involved in relevant projects and campaigns.
WE ARE
YOUR BIDS
Sunderland’s Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) is a collaborative effort driven by businesses, united under a single vision: to create a vibrant city with opportunities for everyone.
Since our inception in 2014, we have injected over £6 million into enhancing the city centre. Through the backing of our levy payers, business stakeholders, and essential partners, we have formulated a pragmatic and attainable blueprint for the future, expanded to include Sheepfolds and launched the Seafront BID.
WHAT IS
GOVERNANCE?
Governance might seem a boring and dry subject, but actually, it can be fascinating and hugely dynamic as it consists of the processes, policies and laws which will affect how an organisation is managed.
In the case of Sunderland BIDs, the processes and policies are directed and controlled by our Board of Directors to ensure that performance and risk are managed effectively.
LATEST EVENTS
CRUK Road show
@ Whitburn Road7 July 2026
Every year, Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness Roadshow sets off to talk to people about cancer.
Our Cancer Awareness nurses chat to people about how small health changes can reduce their cancer risk. They also encourage people to know what’s normal for their body and give them confidence to go to a GP with any concerns.
Beach Yoga
@ Seaburn Promenade11 July 2026
Views, fresh air, yoga, relaxation.
Yes please! We live in a BEAUTIFUL part of the world and there is nothing better than a yoga session overlooking the ocean.
Art, Craft, and
Graze Market11 July 2026
The Art, Craft & Graze Markets are all about slowing down, having a wander, and meeting the people behind the work.
Come along to browse handmade pieces, discover local artists and makers, and enjoy a chat with the creatives themselves.
Expect:
Original artwork & handmade crafts
Locally made gifts & home décor
Fresh bakes, savoury treats & artisan produce
A relaxed atmosphere filled with creativity
Whether you’re curious, collecting, or just fancy a relaxed morning out, there’s plenty to explore, taste, and enjoy.
Grab a coffee from the coffee caribe pod, take your time, and support Sunderland’s small businesses and creative community.
Sheepfolds
Stables Market12 July 2026
Artisan food and drink market, will be held on the second Sunday of each month going forward. Visitors can wander around the many stalls and purchase from a range of local independent traders offering the very best produce, from crafted gifts to specialist breads and cakes, organic vegetables, charcuterie and more!
K-Pop Tribute
@ The Fire Station17 July 2026
Ride the K-pop wave influencing the World live on stage! From stadium-shaking anthems to breathtaking choreography,
K-Pop All Stars celebrates the global phenomenon redefining pop culture. With explosive performances of today’s biggest K-pop hits from BlackPink, NewJeans, Katseye, and BTS and spectacular numbers inspired by the smash-hit film K-pop Demon Hunters, this high-energy tribute brings the thrill of Seoul’s stages to life.
With a sea of light sticks glowing and the crowd moving as one, you’ll feel the music and the electrifying energy of K-Pop All Stars in this live, immersive experience!
Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult
Sunderland Fashion Show
@ Keel Square18 July 2026
Born on the banks of the Wear, Sunderland Fashion Show is a one-night spectacle that turns the city into a living gallery, celebrating bold design, raw talent and the unstoppable creative pulse of the North East.
We bring together emerging designers, models, musicians and a small army of volunteers to put on something Sunderland can be loud and proud of. Part runway, part festival, all heart.
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Beach Yoga
@ Seaburn Promenade18 July 2026
Views, fresh air, yoga, relaxation.
Yes please! We live in a BEAUTIFUL part of the world and there is nothing better than a yoga session overlooking the ocean.
80s Bottomless Brunch
@ The 3 Stories25 July 2026
Bottomless brunch but make it 80s!
The 3 Stories is throwing it back with the ultimate 80s Bottomless Brunch bringing disco fever and retro party vibes straight to you.
Bottomless cocktails and prosecco
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Beach Yoga
@ Seaburn Promenade25 July 2026
Views, fresh air, yoga, relaxation.
Yes please! We live in a BEAUTIFUL part of the world and there is nothing better than a yoga session overlooking the ocean.
K-POP Takeover
@ STACK30 July 2026
Get ready to dance, sing and shine at our Kids K-Pop Party, packed with interactive games, high-energy dance-alongs and the biggest K-Pop hits kids love. Learn fun choreography and feel like a pop star in a lively stage event perfect for the whole family. Come dressed in your favourite K-Pop-inspired outfits, bright colours, or idol-style looks and get ready to party!
