Summer parties, outdoor films, cultural happenings and charity events – July 2026 in the North East is really THAT girl…
Whoever said July 2026 in the North East is for the festivals was… only partially right! There’s so much more this month has to offer you, my dear reader.
Summer Block Party BALTIC x The Glasshouse
When: 4 July
Price: Free
Time to celebrate the best summer season that has to offer. Taking place from as early as 10am, all the way into the night, this Summer Block Party will have plenty to offer for everyone. I’m talking Art Car Boot Fair, exhibitions, artist talks, creative sessions and a Summer Preview Party with pizza, cocktails and a DJ. The perfect way to mark summer in the city, if you ask me.
In the Park at Exhibition Park
When: 8 July
Price: From £82.60
If you’re a Lewis Capaldi fan, In the Park will be THE place to be on 8 July. Soak in some lovely (and sometimes heartbreaking) tunes, sip on a cold drink and enjoy the weather. Need I say more?
Shop for Smart Works at Sunderland City Hall
When: 9 July
Price: 10:30am – 6pm free entry; 9:30am – 10:30am Early Bird Entry £5
Now here’s your chance to do something good this July in the North East. Smart Works is a charity focused on empowering unemployed and financially vulnerable women to get back into the workforce by providing outfits for interviews, as well as offering career coaching. With unemployment rates 0.3% higher than last year, this is the perfect opportunity to visit Sunderland City Hall and get some pieces from brands such as Rixo, Varley, Mint Velvet and more. All profits from the event will go back into the charity to support its important mission.
For Newcastle folk, Smart Works is inviting you to a make-up demo with Jo Leversuch on 2 July at John Lewis (The Space, Floor 2), Newcastle from 17:30–19:30. Tickets are £25.50 and include a welcome drink and a goody bag.
Shop for Smart Works tickets; Makeup demo tickets
Mouth of the Tyne Festival
When: 9-12 July
Price: From £42.35
It’s that time of year again when Tynemouth is inviting everyone to spend a couple of days surrounded by street entertainment, the seaside, live music and only the best energy. Leave the bad vibes at home and come enjoy the peak of summer with musical acts such as The K’s, Self Esteem, Ministry of Sound Classical and more!
The Karate Kid The Musical at Sunderland Empire
When: 14-18 July
Price: From £16
I’ve always said that old films are the best films, and The Karate Kid (1984) is no exception. The film will be visiting Sunderland Empire’s stage, showcasing the story of a school kid, Daniel LaRusso, who finds a way to tackle his bullies at school through martial arts. It’s the story that inspired the martial arts craze, so certainly not one to be missed!
Durham City Run Festival
When: 16 July
Price: Entry fee from £17.50, free for spectators
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Durham City Run is always a good idea, whether you’re running the 5K or 10K (the closing date is 13 July, so hurry!), or just there to enjoy the atmosphere. I’m not a runner myself, but I’ve heard the views while running through the picturesque Durham landmarks are to die for.
Motown by Candlelight at Newcastle Cathedral
When: 17 July
Price: From £35
A night with Motown feels quite fitting given the latest Michael Jackson craze sparked by the film. Enjoy soulful tunes from The Temptations, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Stevie Wonder and, of course, the one and only Jackson 5, all surrounded by beautiful candlelight, of course!
Newcastle Pride
When: 25-26 July
Price: Free, some musical performances are from £7.70
Time to celebrate love! Newcastle City Centre will come alive with colour, music and plenty of positivity. Expect street performances, musical acts and appearances by icons such as Miss Rory, Danny Beard and more!
Luxe Gift Wrapping Workshop at Motel One
When: 26 July
Price: From £36.50
This wouldn’t be a Spectrum round-up without a creative workshop on the line-up, and this July, Forbes Finishings and Matcha Events are inviting you to a cosy afternoon with a complimentary drink and a chance to learn gift-wrapping in the most sustainable way. You will learn how to reuse old magazines, maps and wallpaper offcuts to create beautiful packaging.
Durham Fringe Festival
When: From 29 July
Price: From £5
Durham Fringe Festival is the perfect opportunity to get your cultural fix. Starting on 29 July, the city will come alive with comedy, theatre, cabaret, workshops, poetry and music. With plenty to choose from, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Dirty Dancing Outdoor Screening at Alnwick Castle
When: 30 July
Price: £17.37
I don’t know about you, but I simply can’t think of anything more dreamy and romantic than watching Dirty Dancing outdoors, surrounded by the beautiful views of Alnwick Castle. My dream date. Cute!