October 2026: 10 Unmissable Events in Newcastle
Our top picks for must-do events this October in Newcastle
Spooky season is here, and the weather is definitely getting colder, so you’d be forgiven for thinking the city would be slowing down too…
But it’s Newcastle, so if anything, we’re kicking things up a notch! From fresh new theatre to unforgettable live music, there’s loads to explore in the city this autumn.
Our Friends in the North @ Theatre Royal
An exciting, brand-new production is gracing the Theatre Royal stage this month, as Our Friends in the North returns to its hometown with help from original writer Peter Flannery and award-winning director Jack McNamara. Thirty years on from the original decade-defining drama, audiences will be reintroduced to Tosker, Geordie, Nicky and Mary, as they come of age during the Thatcher years.
Thursday 15th – Saturday 24th October 2026, From £19
2026 Mercury Prize @ Utilita Arena
Following its Newcastle debut last year, the Mercury Prize Awards are back in the Toon this October! Celebrating the very best of new UK and Irish music, the likes of JADE, Knats, Olivia Dean, Paul McCartney and RAYE have been shortlisted for the coveted ‘Album of the Year’ award, which you’ll be able to witness live – as well as performances from some of the twelve nominated acts.
Thursday 22nd October 2026, From £48.75
Blackout @ Tyne Theatre & Opera House
Spooky season is in full swing this month, with a whole host of terrifically terrifying events to enjoy, like Blackout at Tyne Theatre & Opera House! You’ll join a small cast of performers as they gather for (what should be) a straightforward rehearsal. But as things start to go awry in the old theatre, with the lines between storytelling and supernatural beginning to blur… nothing is really as it seems.
Friday 23rd October 2026, From £25
The Proclaimers @ O2 City Hall
You don’t have to walk 500 miles to hear some top-notch tunes this month! Or even go 500 more for that matter, as The Proclaimers are headed to Newcastle’s very own O2 City Hall to celebrate their thirteenth studio album, You May Offend. Expect new tracks like But It Is and You May Offend, as well as those beloved classics like Sunshine on Leith and Life With You.
Sunday 25th October 2026, Check website for availability
Lord of the Wings @ Wylam Brewery
Wrap up warm and head on an adventure to Wylam Brewery this October, with the return of Lord of the Wings! Dig into some fine fowl from some of the city’s best wingmasters, with excellent entertainment, drinks and sweet treats on offer too. Last year’s event featured the likes of Fed’s Fried Chicken, Burgz, Spud Gun and Scranners Arms - so a tasty time out is guaranteed.
Friday 23rd – Saturday 24th October 2026, Free entry
Twin Atlantic @ Boiler Shop
Twin Atlantic are back on the live music circuit this month, hot on the heels of their new single Don’t Quit It. Their gig at the Boiler Shop promises to be an electrifying one, so whether you’re a fresh fan, or you’ve been part of the crowd since their Vivarium days, it promises to be an unforgettable night.
Sunday 18th October 2026, From £32
Enzo Siragusa @ NX
If there’s one thing we know about NX, it's that this lot know how to throw a good Halloween party, and this year is no exception! Their seasonal special for 2026 sees one of the most influential names in minimal house and tech music, Enzo Siragusa, take to the decks with support from Dr Banana’s party-starting selections and stripped-back groove.
Saturday 31st October 2026, From £25.50
Hansel & Gretel and the Witch @ Northern Stage
Following the huge success of their fairytale trilogy, balletLORENT take on a new challenge at Northern Stage this month, with Hansel & Gretel and the Witch. Combining imaginative storytelling with striking visuals, professional dancers and a youth community cast, this original story promises to be a spellbinding sensation for young audiences!
Thursday 29th October – Sunday 1st November 2026, From £12
Spooky Tales @ Live Theatre
Live Theatre are also embracing the spine-tingling vibes of the season, with Spooky Tales – a fun, family-friendly workshop where little imaginations can run wild. Together, you’ll use costumes, props and puppets to create a spooky story, before a themed scavenger hunt full of surprises!
Wednesday 28th – Friday 30th October 2026, From £10
Oktoberfest Newcastle @ Times Square
Grab your stein and don your best lederhosen – Oktoberfest is well and truly back at Times Square this month! The 2,000 capacity traditional Bavarian beer hall is ready to cause a ruckus over three Saturdays in October, with live oompah bands to swill and spill those steins to, frankfurters to feast on, and currywurst if you’re craving ‘em. One thing we know for sure – absolute madness is guaranteed here. So we’d snap up those tickets pretty sharpish if we were you, ja? Prost!
Friday 2nd – Saturday 24th October 2026, From £15
