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.
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.
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.
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
Carpenters Tribute
@ The Fire Station1 November 2026
It’s time to get over that rainbow and make the smallest of dreams come true with A Tribute to the Carpenters.
The original Carpenters tribute is back with a brand‑new show for 2025!
Rhyme & Shine
@ Culture House1 November 2026
Rhyme & Shine is a joyful session of songs, rhymes, music and stories for young children and their grown-ups.
Sing, dance, play and learn together while developing early language skills and making new friends.
Business Brunch
@ Culture House4 November 2026
The Business & IP Centre North East is excited to be working with the new Culture House in Sunderland to deliver weekly business drop-in sessions. To celebrate, we will be holding a special business brunch, showcasing the local support available for anyone looking to grow their business.
-
Ultimate Abba Tribute
@ The Fire Station5 November 2026
Calling all Dancing Queens, this is your night to say, Thank you for the Music!
This international smash-hit tribute show brings all ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a production like no other. The hugely popular show, now in its 22nd year, combines the unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances by our all-star cast.
Europa League Live
@ The Fire Station5 November 2026
Grab a pint and watch Sunderland vs Dinamo Zagreb, live on our big screen in FireSide.
Free Tickets – book here!
Girls Go Pop
@ STACK7 November 2026
All Female, Six Piece Pop Group celebrating the very best of 90s and 00s Pop Royalty and Girl Band Anthems!
Expect to sing your heart out to everything from gold standard anthems by Atomic Kitten, Girls Aloud, TLC and Spice Girls, all the way to hits from pop queens like Rihanna, Britney and Jamelia
Country Day Party
@ The Point7 November 2026
he Country Day Party is coming to Sunderland!
Get your cowboys hats ready!
Open Studios
@ Sunniside7 November 2026
Getting involved in Sunniside Open Studios could be great for your business!
The event offers visitors a rare glimpse into the working world of local artists and designer-makers, with everything from paintings, ceramics and sculpture to jewellery, furniture, prints, flowers and much more.
Matchday Hospitality
@ Hilton Garden Inn7 November 2026
November 8th – Sunderland V Chelsea
-
Easington Colliery Band
@ The Fire Station8 November 2026
This Remembrance Sunday, join the award-winning Easington Colliery Band for a powerful evening of music and reflection.
Last Post, First Light: featuring Easington Colliery Brass Band With:-
– John Thirkell – Guest Trumpet & Flugelhorn Soloist
– The Lake Poets
– Trimdon Training BandA Concert of Classical, Jazz & Remembrance.
