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
UK Foo Fighters
@ The Fire Station3 July 2026
Celebrating 30 Years of Foo Fighters.
This world-famous tribute band takes you on a journey spanning three decades of music from the now legendary band, Foo Fighters and their charismatic leader, Dave Grohl.
ABBA Fabulous Feat. Foster Grant
@ STACK Seaburn4 July 2026
Saturday’s main event as the Stack welcome back ABBA FABULOUS. Celebrating the songs of Abba which will include live performance with stage show, dancers and host.
So get the sparkles out for this feel good event!
SUMMER STREETS
FESTIVAL 20264 July 2026
The free-entry music, arts & community festival for Sunderland
SATURDAY 4TH & SUNDAY 5TH JULY
Summer Streets Festival is a free music, arts and culture festival that takes place every summer in Cliffe Park, Roker, Sunderland. Since launching in 2014, the festival has grown into one of Sunderland’s most distinctive grassroots cultural events — bringing together world-class artists, emerging talent, community organisations, workshops, outdoor arts and family activity in one open and welcoming public space at the seafront.
Find Out More!
Beach Yoga
@ Seaburn Promenade4 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.
Makers &
Bakers Market4 July 2026
A fantastic variety of handpicked artisan local gift shopping stalls located in the Bridges Shopping Centre in Sunderland.
Stalls include handmade gifts, art, delicious homebakes, gourmet sweet treats, photography, keepsakes, pet accessories, pamper products and so much more!Entry is free.
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.
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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
