There are so many reasons to celebrate May 2026 in the North East. We’re talking inspiring talks, foodie spots, cultural outings and more!
This is why spring is my absolute favourite season. There are so many cool happenings, and not enough time in the world to attend them all!
Take your pick…
TEDx at Durham University
When: 2 May
Price: £40
With everything happening in the world at the moment, TEDx at Durham University is bringing together amazing speakers to discuss current issues and how we can continue to grow as humans in times of uncertainty. There’s no better way to get some much-needed inspiration and perhaps a chance to reflect on different perspectives.
Newcastle Food & Drink Festival at Exhibition Park
When: 2-4 May
Price: From £7.95Â
It’s that time of year when Newcastle Food & Drink Festival makes a comeback and, honestly, this year’s programme sounds better (and bigger!) than ever. Think bites from all over the world, indie drinks, live chef demos, fine artisan markets, live music, street entertainment, and a chance to support the mental health charity Mind. Who could say no to all of that?
newcastlefoodanddrinkfestival.com
Community Beach Yoga in Tynemouth
When: 3 May
Price: Free
Okay, so I know I said I was going to go to this last month, but instead, I had an impromptu trip to my lovely home country, Lithuania. But this month? I’m not missing it! Wrap up warm (just in case it’s a rainy morning – you never know with the weather here) and come for some free beach yoga. If you happen to see a tall, blonde, skinny girl, it’s probably me -come say hi!
Newcastle Zine Fest
When: 3 May
Price: Free entry
Now this one sounds dreamy. Taking place at Star and Shadow Cinema, Newcastle Zine Fest is an opportunity to grab a cool indie mag, meet local creatives, and browse the zine market. Basically, it’s a celebration of indie publishing with coffee and treats. What could be better than that?
Music of Ed Sheeran by Candlelight at Durham Cathedral
When: 7-8 May
Price: From £34.50
Well, if there’s one artist who’s got an insane amount of bangers up his sleeve, it’s Ed Sheeran, and this May you get a chance to listen to his music surrounded by candlelight. From some of Ed’s slower ballads to energetic songs that will make you want to dance, this concert will feature incredible vocalists and a live band. Perfect for a fun date night, if you ask me.
The Late Shows
When: 8-9 May
Price: Free
Between 8 – 9 May, consider your evenings fully booked as The Late Shows returns to Newcastle, and it’s a great opportunity to get some culture into you. Art studios, music venues, galleries, museums, and historical buildings across Ouseburn, Newcastle and Gateshead will be opening their doors after hours to allow locals to enjoy something fun and cultural after work.
Legally Blonde The Musical at Newcastle Theatre Royal
When: 12-17 May
Price: From £30
A brand-new production of the West End and Broadway smash-hit musical comedy Legally Blonde The Musical is coming to Newcastle Theatre Royal, and I can already feel the town buzzing for this. Based on the novel Legally Blonde by Amanda Brown and the iconic 2001 film of the same name starring Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Coolidge, the multi-award-winning Legally Blonde The Musical will prove that whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed.
Party In The Park
When: 15-17 May
Price: From £2
A weekend packed with monster trucks, breathtaking equestrian displays and the world’s tallest mobile fairground ride are just some of the treats in store when Party In The Park returns to Middlesbrough.
For the first time Party in The Park will also be bringing four-legged friends to add to the occasion, with the OG Performance Horses. These magnificent animals will showcase their equestrian skill in a number of highly choreographed routines, all set to music.
The event is also turning the clock right back to prehistoric times, with guests needing to prepare themselves for the dino invasion, with these prehistoric giants roaming the park throughout the weekend.
Spring Artisan Market at Dalton Park, Seaham
When: 16-17 May
Price: Free entry
If there’s one thing I love, it’s a good market, and you already know my monthly round-ups always include one. This time, we’re heading to Seaham for its Spring Artisan Market, filled with local artisan makers and independent producers. Try some seasonal treats, get a little gift for that special someone in your life, and celebrate the best season of the year!