Put these 9 festivals in Newcastle on your bucket list and dance your heart out
Festivals in Newcastle are more than just events; they’re a way to dive into the city’s energy and culture. Newcastle isn’t just about historic streets either, because it’s also a place of good music, good food, and celebrations all year round.
From open-air concerts to street food fairs, there’s always a festival that’s sure to catch your eye. It’s the perfect mix of unforgettable experiences and discoveries.
Ready to join the fun? We’ve rounded up the best festivals in Newcastle, so you can find the ones that match your vibe and make the most of the city’s lively scene.
1. TrickFest
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Website: https://www.tricktenerife.com/
Address: Town Moore
Contact: [email protected]
When: Late September
Pricing: £££
Trickfest is like a giant outdoor nightclub during the day—nonstop beats, live DJ sets, and a high-energy atmosphere. It’s perfect for anyone who loves to dance, discover new music, and enjoy with friends.
The festival features three main stages—TRICK, DOOF, and BOLT—offering a mix of international music and local rising stars. From deep house to bass-heavy sets, the light, visuals, and crowd’s energy make each set feel like a full sensory experience.
Previous lineups have featured artists such as Patrick Topping, Tom Staar, and John Summit. So, attendees can expect a mix of chart-topping hits.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Newcastle, TrickFest is the place to feel the city’s energy in full swing. Dance floors, music, and lights make it a standout festival for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience.
Pro Tip:
If you’re into electronic music, head over to the DOOF stage. It offers an immersive experience thanks to the dynamic visuals and sounds.
2. Noughty ‘90s Festival
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Website: https://www.noughty90sfest.com/
Address: Leazes Park, Richardson Road, NE2 4BJ
Contact: +44 771 023 1122
When: August Bank Holiday weekend (usually Saturday)
Pricing: ££
The Noughty ‘90s festival is a vibrant celebration of everything that made the ’90s and 2000s unforgettable. Set in Leazes Park, this one-day festival brings together pop, R&B, and dance hits from the era.
The lineup is packed with iconic acts and unexpected performances. Fans will witness shows from groups like Atomic Kitten, A1, and N-Trance, along with DJs spinning their tracks.
Beyond the 90s music, this festival offers a diverse range of experiences for attendees. There are retro arcade games, roller disco, themed bars, and delicious street food. Families and groups of friends can enjoy a full day of entertainment.
The festival manages to balance nostalgia with fresh, fun energy, making it more than just a concert–it’s a proper celebration of an era. Tickets start at £25, with access to all music and attractions.
Pro Tip:
I nearly missed half of a performance because I was stuck in a queue for drinks. I’d recommend grabbing your drink early or bringing a reusable bottle to avoid missing out when the big acts come on stage.
3. Lindisfarne Festival
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Website: https://lindisfarnefestival.com/
Location: Beal Farm, near Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland
When: Late August (at the end of summer)
Pricing: £££
Lindisfarne Festival is a music and arts event set in one of the North East’s most scenic locations, just a short distance from Holy Island. The festival brings together live music, arts, and local culture.
The music lineup is diverse, featuring a mix of folk, indie, rock, and acoustic acts that often include both emerging artists and seasoned performers. Multiple stages ensure that everyone gets to see at least one act, and festival-goers can wander between sets.
Being outdoors on the Northumberland coast means the weather can be unpredictable. Late August can bring sudden changes from sunshine to rain, so visitors are encouraged to bring layers, waterproof jackets, and appropriate footwear.
Camping is available for those staying on-site. Therefore, planning is crucial to ensure a comfortable stay during the festival. Arriving early also helps secure the best spots, making it easier to access festival activities without hassle.
Pro Tip:
If you’re heading to Holy Island, aim for the morning low tide–the causeway is only safe to cross when the tide is out. That way, you can explore the island without worrying about getting stranded.
4. Lost Minds Festival
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lostmindsfestival/
Location: Exhibition Park, Claremont Road, NE2 4PZ
Contact: [email protected]
When: July 11th (typically held on a weekend)
Pricing: £
Lost Minds Festival is Newcastle’s premier celebration of electronic music, taking over Exhibition Park each summer. This one-day event brings together thousands of dance music fans for a high-energy experience among multiple stages.
The event features popular spinning artists known for their work in trance, hardstyle, and techno. Previous lineups include Scooter, Ben Nicky, Aly & Fila, and Technology ‘N’ Tuneboy. Dazzling stage designs and immersive lights instantly turn the park into a wonderland.
Pro Tip:
If you’re deciding between a standard or VIP ticket, go for the latter. You gain access to a private indoor seating area, an outdoor terrace, private bars, and “posh” toilets. These offer a little extra comfort amid the crowds and music madness.
5. Newcastle Mela
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Website: https://newcastlemela.co.uk/
Location: Exhibition Park, Claremont Road, NE2 4PZ
Contact: 0779 434 6684
When: August Bank Holiday weekend
Pricing: £
The Newcastle Mela is a vibrant festival held over the August Bank Holiday weekend. “Mela” means gathering in Hindi, and this festival truly lives up to its name.
Organised by Newcastle Asian Arts & Music, the festival draws thousands of visitors each year. It’s a celebration of South Asian culture, featuring traditions from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India.
The festival also offers interactive experiences, including henna painting, block printing, and various craft activities. These activities offer visitors the opportunity to engage with the local culture. Street food stalls serve a range of flavours, from samosas to modern fusion dishes.
Accessibility and inclusivity are at the heart of Mela. The festival is designed to welcome people of all ages and abilities, with accessible spaces at Exhibition Park. Families with children can try the “Mela in the City” event, a more relaxed version of the festival.
Pro Tip:
The easiest way to get to Exhibition Park is on foot from Haymarket Metro or bus station–it’s only a 15-minute walk. If you’d rather skip the walk, cycling and public transport are hassle-free options, with car access being available, too.
6. Newcastle Food and Drink Festival
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Website: https://newcastlefoodanddrinkfestival.com/
Location: Leazes Park, Richardson Road, NE2 4BJ
Contact: [email protected]
When: Late May Bank Holiday weekend
Pricing: ££
The Newcastle Food and Drink Festival is a two-day celebration that brings together food lovers from across the city. It’s the perfect chance to explore a variety of cuisines, enjoy live entertainment, and bond with friends and family.
The festival features an Artisan Market and a Street Food Arena, where you can sample a wide range of dishes, from local specialities to international flavours. Live chef demos give a sneak peek of how they create mouthwatering dishes and specials.
Drinks are sourced from independent bars that serve craft beers, cocktails, and local wines. These bars create social hubs where festival-goers mingle and unwind. Here, you’ll see families and friend groups on picnic blankets scattered along the area.
The festival is also dog-friendly, so you can expect to see many furry companions throughout.
Pro Tip:
People with disabilities can bring a companion for free, provided they present a valid identification card. It ensures accessibility for all and makes sure everyone enjoys the festival comfortably.
7. Newcastle Christmas Market
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Website: https://new.newcastle.gov.uk/news/2025/call-2025-christmas-market-traders
Location: Grey’s Monument, Grey’s Street, Grainger Street, Old Eldon Square, and Nelson Street
When: Mid-November to late December
Pricing: £
The Newcastle Christmas Market is a winter wonderland that most locals look forward to. Offering everything from handmade gifts to delicious festive treats and visiting the Christmas market is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
The market’s Christmas village at Old Eldon Square is a highlight among locals, thanks to the giant illuminated tree alongside a carousel and Santa’s workshop. It’s a great backdrop that families and friend groups can use for memorable photos.
For those looking to relax, the Moosenwirt Alpine bar is a cosy spot to enjoy a hot drink. It’s packed with festive decorations, such as twinkling lights and rustic wooden seating, making you feel like you’re in a movie.
The bar serves warming mulled wines, craft beers, and speciality cocktails, making it perfect to unwind after browsing the market. Groups of friends gather here to celebrate the season and the lively atmosphere.
Pro Tip:
When booking a North Pole Igloo, redeem your booking fee toward your food and drinks. Think of it as pre-loading your tab and not paying extra fees.
8. Mouth of the Tyne Festival
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Website: https://mouthofthetynefestival.com/
Location: Tynemouth Front Street and the grounds of Tynemouth Priory and Castle
When: July (typically over four summer days–Thursday to Sunday)
Pricing: ££
The Mouth of the Tyne Festival is a four-day celebration of music, arts, and local culture held at the stunning Tynemouth Priory and Castle. With sweeping views of the North Sea and the River Tyne, it’s the perfect way to experience both heritage and entertainment.
Music takes centre stage here, with headline acts performing across multiple days alongside emerging talents. You might be singing along to pop classics one moment or dancing to soulful hits the next.
Beyond the music, the festival’s cultural offerings make it stand out. Children can enjoy interactive workshops and activities, while adults can browse stalls offering a variety of local food and drinks.
Street theatre and surprise performances pop up throughout the site, keeping the energy lively. Free performances in the open spaces keep the crowd engaged, creating a buzzing atmosphere.
9. This Is Tomorrow Festival
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Location: Exhibition Park
When: Mid-September
Pricing: ££
This Is Tomorrow Festival is a three-day indie, rock, and alternative music event that has earned its reputation as one of the biggest music weekends. It attracts both local fans and visitors from across the UK.
The lineup often features a mix of bands like Sam Fender, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, and Foals. The festival is a go-to for anyone who loves guitar-led music and big festival anthems.
Beyond the main stage, there are smaller stages that showcase rising talent—giving you a chance to discover new music. Food trucks, craft beer stands, and cocktail pop-ups are available to indulge in between sets.
The festival has also introduced sustainability projects, including the use of reusable cups and eco-friendly packaging at food stalls. These steps highlight the organisers’ effort to reduce waste and minimise the event’s environmental footprint.
Pro Tip:
Skip buying single-day tickets and grab a weekend bundle pass instead. General entry starts at around £49 per day (£75 for VIP), but bundle passes covering all days usually offer a 15-25% discount.