September 2023: 10 Unmissable Events in Newcastle
Our monthly round-up of some of the most exciting, interesting and entertaining things to do in the city this month
Summer might be over but there's always something exciting going on in Newcastle and this September is no different.
Whether you're looking for some nostalgic clubbing, hilarious comedy, exciting music from breakthrough acts or getting chills down your spine in the theatre, Newcastle has just what you need.
Read on for our round-up of some September events that might just tempt you to get out and about in the city.
Generator Live Festival @ Boiler Shop
Generator has been nurturing upcoming new acts from the region for more than three decades and this annual showcase is fast becoming a must-see hot ticket for anyone wanting to see the P7gs or Maximo Park of tomorrow. Some of the most exciting new acts from the North East - like Benefits, Me Lost Me and Little Comets - will be appearing on what for some will be the biggest stage of their career so far. There's an after-party at World HQ too!
September 16th, from £15
Newcastle’s Dragon Boat Race @ Quayside
The annual Newcastle Dragon Boat Race, hosted by NE1 to raise funds for local charities, has become a definite highlight of the end of summer, rounding off a packed programme of NE1-sponsored events. Join the crowds of onlookers cheering on teams of competitors paddling their dragon boats along the Tyne for this year's charity the Teenage Cancer Trust. It's a proper family day out, with activities, stalls and refreshments so you can make a whole day of it too!
September 30th, free for spectators
Great North Nights: Autumn Ceilidh @ Great North Museum: Hancock
Ceilidhs definitely feel like autumnal gatherings and the one being hosted by Great North Museum: Hancock as part of their regular Great North Nights events looks like the perfect way to welcome in the new season. You get to dance yourself dizzy in the museum - no experience necessary and beginners are welcome - and your ticket also gets you the chance to explore the museum's collections and a curry!
September 22nd, £15
2:22 A Ghost Story @ Theatre Royal
It might not officially be spooky season just yet, but you can certainly get in the mood when 2:22 A Ghost Story stops by Theatre ROyal this September. The award-winning West End smash offers thrills, chills and a lot of laughs as an all-star cast including Joe Absolom, Charlene Boyd, Nathaniel Curtis and Louisa Lytton try to find out exactly what is going on in this modern twist on the haunted house trope.
September 19th - 23rd, from £25
Yes folks, the Vengabus is coming to Newcastle. The last time NX hosted a We Are 90s Dance Live event it was a sell-out, so don't leave it too late if you want to relive your 90s clubbing days. As well as Vengaboys you can see performances from nineties rave stars like Capella, QFX and Alice DJ. And with its 4pm start and 10pm curfew, it's perfect for ageing clubbers who have to get back for the babysitter!
September 16th, from £30
Busted @ Utilita Arena
Two decades into their pop-punk career, Busted are celebrating their 20th anniversary with a tour that hits the Utilita Arena in September. To celebrate, the trio have re-recorded fifteen of their biggest hits which will doubtless get an airing at this show. All this and support from Hanson (of Mmm Bop fame) and local outfit The Tyne!
September 13th & 16th, from £42.50
Tom Davis: Underdog @ Tyne Theatre & Opera House
Tom Davis is one of the most familiar faces on TV, known for his stand-up, panel show appearances and shows like King Gary and Murder In Successville. His latest show Underdog looks at his life so far, from labouring after leaving school to appearing in smash movies and is so popular the original Newcastle date sold out so a second has been added. Don't miss out!
September 23rd - 24th, £22
A Night at the Medieval Tavern @ Newcastle Castle
If you've ever wanted to experience a night in a medieval tavern, then this occasional event at Newcastle Castle is exactly what you need. A few times a year, the lower floors of the Castle Keep transform into the Broom Tavern for the night. Your ticket gains you entrance to the tavern, plus medieval stew, some free samples of the authentic drinks on offer plus music and storytelling. There's even a Keeper's Ale brewed specially in conjunction with Wylam Brewery.
September 2nd, £22.50
Black Sheep @ Northern Stage
Black Sheep - an autobiographical story starring the acclaimed Livia Kojo Ajour - is a heady theatrical blend of cabaret, poetry and performance. A sword swallower, performer, poet and musician, Ajour moved to the UK a decade ago and this piece documents her experiences as a queer woman of colour standing up for herself in a challenging environment. It sounds intense and it is, but it's also funny and charming and even features some rollerblading!
September 21st, from £12
Bao & Beer @ Blackfriars
The regular events hosted at Blackfriars are always brilliantly conceived and a whole lotta fun, whether they're just dining evenings or part of their ongoing cookery courses. Bao & Beer is an opportunity to learn how to make Chinese bao buns and their fillings (and some sweet treats too!). As well as the lesson, including all the ingredients and the buns to take home, there'll be Asian beers and a chance to socialise with the other keen bao students. Vegans / vegetarians are welcome.
September 21st, £75
We're heading into autumn and soon summer (what summer?!?) will be a distant memory but Newcastle never lets up even when the holiday season is over. From musical and theatrical delights to cooking courses and fundraising watery goings-on, our city has plenty to offer everyone this September.
