NE1’s Summer in the City: Meet the Partners
Get to know the amazing companies helping to deliver our summer events programme
Summer in the City – our free and fun-packed programme of events – kicks off on 21st July with a whole host of activities running throughout the school holidays, from tours to yoga and fitness sessions plus plenty of kid-friendly events and classes.
It wouldn’t be possible, however, without the help of the amazing local companies we team up with to deliver our events and activities. So, we thought we’d catch up with a handful of them to find out what they love about taking part in NE1’s Summer in the City and what to expect from the events they’re hosting.
Olivia from Let’s Party
What do you love about being a part of NE1’s Summer in the City?
Being part of NE1’s Summer in the City is always something we look forward to each year! We love bringing hands-on, free entertainment to families right in the heart of the city.
There’s something really special about seeing children and parents engaging together, laughing, learning, and making memories — and knowing we’re helping to create that experience is incredibly rewarding.
Every year, the atmosphere is full of energy and joy. It’s more than just running activities; it’s about being part of something that brings the whole community together. We’re proud to play a part in making the city centre a fun and welcoming place for everyone.
What can people expect from your events?
People can expect fun, interactive experiences that the whole family can enjoy. Our events are designed to be hands-on, engaging, and suitable for all ages. Whether it’s creative crafts, exciting games, or musical fun there’s always something to spark imagination and get everyone involved.
We have some brand-new themes heading to our summer sessions this year including Superhero Smash and Toon Takeover which will be super fun.
What is your favourite city centre hangout in the summer?
Definitely the Quayside! There’s something about being by the river on a sunny day — the views of the Tyne Bridge, fun interactive activities, and the mix of yummy food spots and people just enjoying the city.
It’s such a vibrant, scenic part of Newcastle, perfect for a stroll, a bite to eat, or just sitting by the water and watching the world go by. It really comes to life in the summer and captures the spirit of our city beautifully.
Find out more about Let's Party events Teddy Bear Picnic, Toon Takeover, Roar & Explore, Sing & Learn and Superhero Smash on the Summer in the City website.
Beth from Beth Bakes
What do you love about being a part of NE1’s Summer in the City?
I am most excited to be a part of the NE1's community and have this fantastic opportunity to bring the community together and offer fun and exciting cake decorating classes where people can learn something new!
What can people expect from Beth Bakes’ cake decorating classes?
Beth Bakes cake decorating classes provide fun and hands-on experience, where the public can learn a new skill! I will cover all essential techniques such as piping, stacking and filling. We have such a relaxed atmosphere which is perfect for everyone of all abilities. We have a range of different piping nozzles and decorations so everyone can personalise their cake.
What is your favourite city centre hangout in the summer?
I love visiting the Quayside Market and seeing all the different stalls, from small businesses to well established food vendors. We really have a mix of talent locally in Newcastle!
Find out more about Beth Bakes' Bento Box Cake Decorating Classes on the Summer in the City website.
Amanda from Little Beethoven’s Music School
What do you love about being a part of NE1’s Summer in the City?
NE1’s Summer in the City gives kids the opportunity to experience one of our music classes, whether it is a music mini class for younger children, piano class for children aged 5 and above or ukulele classes for children aged 5 and above. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people who share a love for music and it is a great place to show some of the wonderful things Newcastle has to offer.
What can people expect your kids’ music classes?
Our workshops provide a welcoming and fun space for your child to explore music and develop their piano or ukulele skills. In these classes, students will learn to read and play notes on the piano or ukulele. They will also have the opportunity to explore music theory and learn how to write notes, which helps them develop better music reading skills.
What is your favourite city centre hangout in the summer?
The Quayside - it is a great place to enjoy a summers day with family and friends!
Find out more about Little Beethoven Music School's Music Mini Class, Ukulele Class and Piano Class on the Summer in the City website.
John from Newcastle City Guides
What do you love about being a part of NE1’s Summer in the City?
I feel very privileged to be able to show off our city to visitors and to explain our history and culture to them. The summer season enables us to do guided walks generally in good weather where we can point out not only the buildings but also, and probably more importantly, the stories of the people behind them who made Newcastle such a great place to live or visit.
What can people expect Newcastle City Guides’ tours?
All the Newcastle City Guides will have undergone at least a year’s training before leading walks so attendees can expect experienced, expert knowledge of the city but delivered in a fun and entertaining way. People aren’t just interested in dates and architecture – it’s the stories behind them that they remember and that’s what we tend to concentrate upon.
What is your favourite city centre hangout in the summer?
I’m a people watcher - like Sam Fender but without the talent - so I love Grey’s Monument and the Quayside or anywhere where people meet and congregate. We have such a rich diversity of residents and visitors that I never tire of imagining the stories behind them! Geordies are renowned for the warm welcome we give to our visitors and the summer months and warm weather seem to bring the best out of us!
Find out more about Newcastle City Guides’ Fog on the Tyne, City Highlights, Quayside Chares, Guildhall, Murderous Newcastle and Grey’s Monument tours on the Summer in the City website.
Hopefully, our brilliant partners have given you a taster of what to expect from this summer and we’d like to say a massive thanks to them for once again helping us to deliver what’s going to be an amazing programme of events. Find out more with our official guide to Summer in the City and get booked up for some fun on the Summer in the City website.
Main image: Let's Party Teddy Bear Picnic, Photo by Tynesight Photography
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