Sunderland Food and Drink Festival returns to city centre for 2023

The festival returns to Keel Square, High Street West and Market Square from June 23-25 and as well a host of food, there’s plenty of entertainment on the menu with activities for children and live music.

More than 50 traders are taking part, with food ranging from Greek and Chinese to Caribbean, along with local producers who will be offering a range of delicious items for sale.

And all the food – and drink – will be washed down with a packed programme of live music, including performances from renowned Take That cover group, Re-Take That and former X-Factor star turned Capital Drive Time DJ, Sam Lavery, Ibiza Soul Duo and a whole host of local talent including This Little Bird and Sunderland College indie rock band, Swindled.

Arts and crafts sessions will be on offer, while colourful characters will be out and about to keep children entertained, as well as unique acts including stilt walking chefs and cupcakes and comedy dinner ladies.

Keel Square will be offering a range of giant games, with face painters also operating throughout the weekend.

Drinks will include cocktails from Cocktail Bay and a Polish beer garden will serve a range of ales, along with a Pimm’s Tuk-tuk, Black Beetle Drinks and Dipple Tipple.

There will also be the option for some retail therapy, with a range of handicrafts, jewellery and ornaments on offer.

The festival has been created by Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council, and Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive at Sunderland BID, believes there is something for everyone.

“We’re delighted that we’ve been able to build all kinds of elements into the mix for this year’s event,” said Sharon.

“Along with some really exciting and unusual food stalls, we’ve also got an amazing programme of entertainment for youngsters and some exciting live music performances.

“It’s a great way to get our summer programme off to a really positive start.”

Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, Councillor John Price echoed Sharon’s words.

“The Food and Drink Festival is an experience that everyone can enjoy and which really has catered for all tastes,” he said.