May 2026: 10 Unmissable Events in Newcastle
We round up all of Newcastle’s unmissable events happening this May.
Newcastle’s alive with the sound of music this May, as the spring season ramps up with a whole host of brand-new unmissable events. From the world’s most famous bagpipe rock band, to the incredible singer-songwriter, rapper and record producer Example, it’s a veritable feast of top-notch tunes for your eyes and ears.
But if that doesn’t sound like your jam, then fret not! Newcastle Food & Drink Festival makes its welcome return to Exhibition Park – or there’s plenty of terrific theatre to keep you entertained, including the one and only Little Shop of Horrors at Northern Stage. So, c’mon down Skid Row with us this May, and take a gander at all this goodness happening in Newcastle.
Murder Trial Tonight IV – Death of a Landlord @ O2 City Hall
If you’ve ever watched a Sheridan Smith ITV crime drama and thought ‘Eh I could do that you know’, then you’re in luck! Newcastle’s very own O2 City Hall is transformed into a courtroom this month, as Murder Trial Tonight returns with its forth instalment Death of a Landlord. Blending stagecraft and social experiment, you’ll be captivated by this format of true-crime storytelling long after the gavel strikes.
Sunday 10th May 2026, Prices vary
Legally Blonde The Musical @ Theatre Royal
Omigod You Guys! Legally Blonde The Musical is painting the Toon pink this May, with a run of performances at the legendary Theatre Royal. Starring Strictly Come Dancing finalist Amber Davies as the iconic Elle Woods, this international West End and Broadway smash hit musical comedy promises to make your month So Much Better. Hot pink blazers and heels encouraged, but not mandatory.
Tuesday 12th – Sunday 17th May 2026, From £29
Little Shop of Horrors @ Northern Stage
Head Somewhere That’s Green – a.k.a. Northern Stage – and catch the deliciously dark, cult favourite musical Little Shop of Horrors. With killer tunes and tongue-in-cheek punchlines good enough to die for, it’s a trip Downtown that you’ll never forget. Sci-fi, meets Motown, meets B-movie horror… what more could we ask for?!
Friday 8th – Saturday 23rd May 2026, From £12
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers @ Tyne Theatre & Opera House
The Red Hot Chilli Pipers are Road Trippin’ this month, and making a grand return to the Toon while they’re at it! They’ve not graced the Newcastle stage for about four years now, so we’re over the moon to welcome them back, this time around at Tyne Theatre & Opera House. Expect unforgettable mash-ups and an eclectic atmosphere with this new production featuring the full band, and of course, the return of the famous Chilli Dancers.
Friday 22nd May 2026, From £37
Stand-Up for Changing Lives @ The Stand
Laugh the night away for a brilliant cause at The Stand, with Stand-Up for Changing Lives. Your chuckles will help this brilliant North East-born charity, which supports over 14,500 people each year experiencing the challenges of homelessness. And whilst you’re having a great evening out of the house, the proceeds of your ticket will be helping people to make a lasting, positive change for their future. We call that a win-win.
Tuesday 12th May 2026, From £12
Newcastle Food & Drink Festival @ Exhibition Park
Newcastle Food & Drink Festival returns to Exhibition Park this May – and guests are guaranteed a tasty time with so many happenings! From international street food and artisan markets ready for exploring, to kids' cooking classes and live chef demos, this is a non-negotiable event for any self-confessed foodie. Even better, there’s live music on stage, plus plenty of bars around the site, to keep the good vibes going.
Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th May 2026, From £7.95
Example @ NX
Legendary singer-songwriter, rapper and record producer Example takes to the NX stage this month as part of his Hits & Bits tour for 2026. Don’t be surprised to hear the likes of Kickstarts, Changed the Way You Kiss Me, and Say Nothing when he arrives in the Toon. Grab those dancing shoes – you’ll need ‘em.
Wednesday 13th May 2026, From £39
Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! @ Utilita Arena
Make some new memories with the family, as Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! – a brand-new stage show inspired by the global preschool sensation – arrives at Utilita Arena. This magical musical production sees Gabby and the Gabby Cats embark on an adventure to the Cat-O-Sphere and Mermaid-Lantis to help rebuild a rainbow. Featuring incredible puppets and talented live show cast, it promises to entertain audience members of every age!
Friday 1st May 2026, Prices vary
Slice Wars @ Wylam Brewery
Alternatively, why not transport the family to a galaxy far, far away, with the return of Slice Wars at Wylam Brewery? The city’s very best pizza-flingers will be going head-to-head across the early May bank holiday, battling it out to crowned champion of this dough dynasty. And with great beer and great tunes, it’s a vibe good enough to make Darth Vader crack a smile.
Friday 1st – Saturday 2nd May 2026, Free entry
Astell & Woolf @ Live Theatre
And last, but by no means least, culture vultures can get their monthly dose at Live Theatre this May, with the world premiere of Astell and Woolf. Digging deep into the North East’s radical roots, the production follows Newcastle-born Mary Astell as she meets Virginia Woolf in the afterlife, resulting in a thought-provoking clash of minds. Described as deeply funny and unapologetically smart, it’ll stay with you long after the curtain falls.
Thursday 14th May – Saturday 6th June 2026, From £22
So whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s plenty to keep you busy this month, from fantastic theatre and foodie fests to fabulous gigs. Don’t say we didn’t warn you…
Main image: Newcastle Food & Drink Festival
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