LunarNew Year
Opening Times
11 AM - 3 PM
Entry Fee
No
Booking Required
No
Venue
Sunniside Gardens
Lunar New Year is a festival that marks the beginning of a new year according to the traditional lunar calendar. This year, Sunderland City Centre will celebrate the occasion on 1 March in Sunniside Gardens.
There will be plenty for everyone to enjoy, with a full programme of entertainment including musical performances, classical and modern dance, musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments, and a fashion show. We are also excited to introduce a brand-new addition to this year’s programme – KPOP The Hunters!
The day will showcase cultures from across Asia, including China, Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore.
Visitors can enjoy an authentic dragon dance and take part in a range of workshops, including paper-cutting crafts celebrating the Year of the Horse. Younger children will be able to create Chinese figures and horse-themed bookmarks.
There will also be opportunities to try the traditional arts of origami and calligraphy, while browsing a selection of Asian-inspired goods such as dragon puppets, masks and Chinese snacks.
Food traders will reflect the theme of the day, with Japanese street food specialists Arigato, bubble waffle favourites Yum Yaba, and NJ Catering offering an exciting selection of Asian dishes.
Join us as we dance in the Year of the Horse and celebrate Lunar New Year together.
Full programme to be announced.
LATEST EVENTS
Sunny Con :
Anime Expo21 March 2026
Join us this March for Chibi Sunny, the delightful mini edition of SunnyCon!
Derby Day @
Sheepfolds Stables22 March 2026
Big screen. Big atmosphere. Ice-cold beers ready.
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THE RATES
REALITY26 March 2026
A frank discussion on the rates revaluation and the potential impact on your business. A session with expert advice and the opportunity for Sunderland businesses to come together and respond.
Please register below.
UNDERGROUND CAR PARK
CAR PARK RAVE27 March 2026
2026 starts underground.
Ben Nicky and Darren Styles UK in an underground car park rave. Tickets are live NOW! .
18+ only
Stages is backed by the UK Government and North East Combined Authority as part of #UKSPF
SUNNISIDE
FOOD MARKET28 March 2026
Pop-up community market supports new and emerging food and drinks businesses across the North East.
From brewers, bakers, and deli-stores to world-class street food vendors, our north-east food and drink traders are delighted to bring themselves to your doorstep.
IBIZA IN
SYMPHONY2 April 2026
Experience the ultimate Ibiza party on stage with IBIZA in Symphony!
This electrifying live show, taking the UK by storm, features a 10-piece band comprising some of the world's finest musicians and singers. Dance the night away, as the biggest Ibiza anthems are bought to life with a seamless blend of electronic beats, live instruments and soaring vocals.
Makers &
Bakers Market4 April 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.
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.
Sheepfolds
Stables Market12 April 2026
Artisan food and drink market, in conjunction with Local Heroes, 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)