Since the sun has decided to make an appearance this month, I’m encouraging you to get out and explore what’s on in the North East this May
Buckle up, as there are plenty of activities to keep you busy this May in the North East…
Tappas and Tipples Tasting at Blackfriars
When: 10 May
Price: £39.50
If you love the idea of a night filled with great food, good wine and zero washing up, Blackfriars Tapas and Tipples evening this May is calling your name.
Hosted in their gorgeous Banquet Hall, it’s a laid-back night of classic Spanish flavours and perfectly paired drinks – all made for you by Blackfriars’ kitchen (so nope, no apron needed, this time). You’ll be treated to a delicious spread of authentic tapas served alongside a curated selection of Spanish wines. Dreamy!
Tynemouth Food Festival
When: 10 – 11 May
Price: Children go free, adult ticket £4
If you’re looking for an excuse to eat your way through the weekend (no judgement here), Tynemouth Food Festival is back in the North East this May – and it’s shaping up to be iconic.
Taking over the stunning Priory and Castle on the clifftops, expect loads of food stalls, local drinks, live music and immaculate vibes. If you haven’t been before, make this the year. And if you have, well… you already know how good it is.
Ouseburn Market
When: 10 – 11 May
Price: Free, but donations are welcome
I don’t know about you, but I can never walk past a market and this one is a must-visit. Expect over 70 stalls featuring handmade art, ceramics, prints, clothes, candles, homeware, and other creative curiosities. Plus, there’ll be speciality coffee from Zees, artisan cakes and sweets, hot food, and live music to keep you entertained.
So, grab a friend, bring the family, and spend the day exploring the best of Ouseburn’s creative community.
The Late Shows
When: 16 – 17 May
Price: Free
If you’re into art, music, history, or just fancy doing something a bit different on a Friday or Saturday night, The Late Shows are back this May and they’re bigger than ever.
Over 70 venues across Newcastle and Gateshead will open their doors after dark for a free, self-guided culture crawl. Expect everything from torchlit tours and medieval taverns to live music, open studios, and quirky performances. It’s a chance to explore the city in a whole new light!
Grainger Market Tripe a Food Tour
When: Various dates throughout May
Price: £39
Personally, I love Grainger Market, so this one sounds like so much fun. You’ll meet your guide at Grey’s Monument and head off on a two-hour wander, exploring the market’s global street food stalls, chatting with the people behind them, and hearing a few stories about the market’s history along the way.
Think fresh ingredients, tasty bites from around the world, and loads of chances to sample as you go. Heads up: this one’s not suitable for gluten-free diets but otherwise, come hungry.
Banksy Prints at Hancock Gallery
When: Throughout May
Price: Free
If you’re a fan of Banksy’s bold messages, you won’t want to miss these two unique collections at Hancock Gallery.
First up, The Monochrome Beginning showcases three of Banksy’s early works: HMV, Rude Copper, and Golf Sale. These limited-edition screen prints offer a glimpse into the raw, black-and-white world that first brought Banksy to the spotlight.
Then there’s Power, Pulp, Protest – another stunning collection featuring the unmistakable style of Banksy. These works dive into the themes of political activism, media influence, and protest culture, all with the artist’s signature rebellious flair.
A must-see and a must-have!
Newcastle Food & Drink Festival
When: 31 May – 1 June
Price: From £10.95
You know summer’s on the way when Newcastle Food & Drink Festival makes a comeback, and this year promises to be better than ever. Held in Leazes Park, you can expect even more street food stalls, live music, cocktails, craft beers, and chef demos to keep you well fed and entertained.
There’s loads for the kids too – think magic shows, face painting, cooking classes, and even an inflatable land. Don’t miss it!
newcastlefoodanddrinkfestival.com