We're bringing back Sunderland Food and Drink Festival - and we want to make it bigger
It attracted 50,000 foodies last year - and Sunderland Food and Drink Festival is back.
It’s been announced that the festival will return from June 5-7, 2026, and organisers are looking for more vendors to attend.
Last year, around 50,000 people visited over three days and this year there will be extra space for stalls with a programme taking place on the former Argos site on High Street West.
Along with food stalls, a second stage will be erected, showcasing more performers throughout the festival, which will run along the whole length of High Street West and Keel Square.
As well as global food stalls, there will be a range of local talent and top tribute acts performing, along with walkabout comedy characters who will be popping up across the festival.
A full programme of activities for children is planned including a number of special workshops, along with the opportunity to play a range of outdoor games.
The festival coincides with two other events in the city – Pride In Sunderland and Makers & Bakers market being held at the Bridges, making for a bumper weekend of entertainment.
Roberta Redecke, Head of Business Services at Sunderland’s BIDs – which includes the City Centre BID and the Seafront BID – which organises the event said the Food and Drink Festival continues to be a major draw to the city.
“The festival now has an amazing reputation and draws thousands of people, which brings a huge boost to the local economy,” she said.
“It is not just about the weekend itself, it gives visitors the opportunity to see how much Sunderland has to offer and hopefully encourages them to return time and time again.”
Anyone interested in taking a pitch at the festival should contact [email protected]
The full line up of entertainment and food vendors will be announced in the near future.