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
Look for a Book
@ Seafront10 October 2026
LOOK FOR THE BOOK | Sunderland Seafront
Saturday 10 October | 10 am – 12 noon
Roker & Seaburn | FREEBooks are hiding along Sunderland Seafront… are you ready to find them?
Matchday Hospitality
@ Hilton Garden Inn10 October 2026
October 10th – Sunderland V Brighton
Art, Craft, and Graze Market
@ Sunderland Train Station10 October 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.
Ska Day Party
@ The Point10 October 2026
The Ska Day Party is coming!
Calling all rude boys, rude girls, and skankin’ legends!
Sunday Market
@ Sheepfold Stables11 October 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!
AI Collective
@ City Hall14 October 2026
Join local businesses for an honest conversation about AI, what’s actually useful, what isn’t, and where it could make a real difference.
Everyone’s talking about AI. Fewer people are being honest about it.
Wine & Cheese Tasting
@ Sheepfold Stables15 October 2026
Come and join us at the new Wine Bar at Sheepfolds Stables for an afternoon of great wines and delicious cheese.Join us at the new wine bar at Sheepfolds Stables for a relaxed and engaging evening of wine discovery with our head Sommelier Mark, who will guide you through a handpicked selection of excellent, approachable wines that deliver quality. This experience focuses on popular grape varieties and well-loved styles, helping you understand flavour profiles, structure, and what to look for when choosing great-value bottles.
Perfect for wine lovers looking to build confidence, expand their knowledge, and enjoy fantastic wines in a welcoming, informal setting.
Oktoberfest
@ High Street West16 October 2026
Get ready for a weekend of steins, singing, dancing and authentic Bavarian entertainment as Oktoberfest arrives in Sunderland from Friday 16 October to Sunday 18 October 2026.
The festival will feature a packed programme of traditional Bavarian entertainment throughout the weekend.
Hocus Pocus
@ The 3 Stories22 October 2026
Experience your favourite films on the big screen at The 3 Stories, while being served themed food and drinks throughout
This event features Halloween favourite, Hocus Pocus, for the spooky ones among us
NEK1 Championship
@ The Point24 October 2026
Get ready for an electrifying night of combat sports action as NEK1 Fighting Championship returns to The Point in Sunderland! Renowned for its high-energy fights and competitive matchups, NEK1 is a must-see event for martial arts enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Experience the adrenaline as top-tier fighters go head-to-head in boxing, K1, and kickboxing bouts that promise unforgettable moments for both participants and fans. NEK1 is more than just a fight night—it’s a celebration of skill, resilience, and Sunderland’s vibrant combat sports scene.
