Foodies from across the North East are expected to head to Wearside on April 27 as food producers, street food traders and makers from across the region join together at Sunderland’s Sunniside Gardens.
The community market, which takes place 10am-4pm on the fourth Saturday of every month, offers the chance to buy everything from pies, savouries, chutneys and kimchis to honey, cheese, craft beer, and street food.
Among the traders taking part are Phil King, of specialist doughnut shop Deep North, who said: “Sunniside Market is great for us – it takes our business and our product to a new community and audience. There’s a real buzz in Sunderland at the moment and it’s a good opportunity to be part of that. It also gives us a valid excuse to make a pink slice doughnut.”
Started in 2022, the Sunniside Food Market – which is organised by Food and Drink North East as part of its Local Heroes NE initiative and supported by Sunderland BID – has become a firm fixture on the foodie calendar.
“Our North East towns and cities deserve vibrant spaces that celebrate our local food identity, support local businesses and create a culture of entrepreneurship,” said Food and Drink North East CEO Chris Jewitt. “Local, community food and drink markets are the perfect platform to achieve these things so it’s incredible to see our Sunniside Food Market grow from strength to strength.”
The event has also been made possible by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund following a successful application made by Sunderland BID, which led to an award of £202,253. The monthly market is part of the bigger Sunniside Activation programme, which is designed to build pride in place and a sense of community.