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
Art, Craft, and
Graze Market11 April 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.
Northern Live
@ The Fire Station16 April 2026
The world’s greatest and most authentic touring live‑band Northern Soul show.
Celebrating the original sounds of the underground movement that began on the dance floors of the North and went on to sweep the nation, this incredible production features an 11‑piece band and four lead vocalists performing more than 30 classic hits. Expect to hear iconic tracks including:
Horrible Histories- The Concert
@ Sunderland Empire17 April 2026
THE ULTIMATE FIRST CONCERT FOR KIDS! For the very first time, your favourite songs and actors from the BAFTA Award-winning CBBC TV series will be appearing live (and dead!) on stage in a very special production!
Get your tickets Now!
Idlewild
@ The Fire Station17 April 2026
Fresh from the success and reception of their eponymously titled 10th studio album, Idlewild visit the Fire Station for the first time on their new tour.
The shows follow the 30th anniversary of the band’s first live performance on the 19th January 1996, at the Subway in Edinburgh.
T’Pau
@The Fire Station18 April 2026
Join Carol Decker & T’pau on their first full UK tour in a decade playing all their hits, fan favourites and songs from their forthcoming album ‘Be Wonderful’.
Sheepfolds
Stables Market19 April 2026
The 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!
Jazz Sundays
@ The Fire Station19 April 2026
With The Michael Young Trio
Residents: Michael Young (piano/keyboard), Paul Grainger (bass) and Abbie Finn (drums)
Seven Drunken Nights @
The Sunderland Empire21 April 2026
Performed by a phenomenal cast of Irish musicians, the show is packed full of classics like Whiskey in the Jar, The Irish Rover and Rocky Road to Dublin – guaranteed to get your toes tapping as they bring the joy of this much-loved Irish folk band back to the stage.
We Rock
@Sunderland Empire22 April 2026
Join Kathleen Davis Stage School on a fantastic adventure as they climb the ladder to success. Starting on the lowest rung, they all love to dance, but will they make it to the very top – who knows?
KROUD KARAOKE
@ The STACK24 April 2026
KROUD KARAOKE x STACK SEABURN
The North East’s BIGGEST sing-a-long event is back. So leave your worries and immerse yourself in the party that is Kroud Karaoke!
