Looking for something to do at the start of August 2025 in the North East? I’ve got you covered with this list. As part of my feature on BBC Tees and Newcastle, I select my top picks of things happening across the North East, and here’s what I’ve chosen for Thursday 31st July to Sunday 10th August.
Baltic’s Big Summer – The Baltic, Gateshead – from now until Fri 29th Aug
We’re starting in Gateshead at the Baltic because until Friday 29th August, they’re unleashing their Big Summer extravaganza. Their programme is packed with all sorts of things for families to do, like enjoy the sci-fi exhibition and playspace, see a film screening in the cinema, drop in to a sketchbook session, and so much more. And the best bit is that all of these activities are completely free along with entry to the gallery, so this is a brilliant and affordable option for the summer holidays. There’s no ticket needed, but I recommend having a look at the Baltic’s website to see the full programme and plan your visit.
School Holidays at Washington Wetland Centre – from now until Sat 30th Aug
For little ones that love the outdoors, love no further than the Washington Wetland Centre for the summer holidays. They’ve got a whole host of amazing activities on until Saturday 30th August for kids of all ages to enjoy. There are pond dipping sessions every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. There’s a new dragonfly trail to explore and dragonfly safaris on Tuesdays. There’s mini beast hunting, den building, even silent discos and the list just keeps on going. The whole programme is included with admission or free for members, so you can explore the rest of the site too. You can take a look at the whole programme and start planning your trip on the Washington Wetland Centre website.
Summer at The Discovery Museum – Fri 1st to Sat 30th Aug
Another spot that’s offering up a lot of variety for the summer holidays is the Discovery Museum. They’ve got a ton of STEM-related activities on from Friday 1st to Saturday 30th August to help engage little ones in science and engineering. So they can have a go at electrical circuit challenges, building Morse code machines, coding robots and so much more. There are also crafts and storytime sessions for younger kids too, so this is a great one for the whole family. Entry to the msueum is free, but these activities are ticketed, so have a look at the Discovery Museum website to see what’s on and get your spaces booked.
Open Air Theatre: A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Raby Castle – Sat 2nd Aug
On Saturday 2nd, Raby Castle gardens will transform into an enchanting woodland stage for Shakespeare’s whimsical A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Under the open sky, you can expect mischievous fairies, star‑crossed lovers and magical mayhem, all performed on the fabulous grass amphitheatre. This is a riotous and high energy re-telling of the story and is ideal for couples, families or friends wanting a bit of cultured escapism with countryside charm. With Raby’s majestic backdrop and the timeless comedy unfolding in dusky light, you’re in for a summer evening filled with magic, mischief and merry memories. Check out the Raby Castle website to get your tickets.
Seaham Food Festival – Sat 2nd and Sun 3rd Aug
On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd, Seaham Food Festival returns to serve up seaside vibes and foodie flair along the stunning Durham coast. Local produce takes centre stage with absolutely everything you could think of, like artisan cheese and honey, to baked goods and sizzling street food. There’s a mega line up of chefs for the live cookery stage too, including TV chef and author Chris Baber, award-winning chocolatier Paul A Young, and Bake Off winner Georgie Grasso, among many others. And we can’t forget about the live music, roaming entertainment and craft tent either, so there really is something for everyone. This is a free event with no ticket needed, so head to Seaham seafront on Saturday or Sunday to get involved.
Chicago – Sunderland Empire – Mon 4th to Sat 9th Aug
From Monday 4th to Saturday 9th August, the Sunderland Empire hosts the sensational musical Chicago. Expect killer jazz‑age choreography, iconic songs like “All That Jazz”, glitzy costumes and razor‑sharp storytelling. And there’s a fantastic cast too with Janette Manrara as Roxie Hart and Darren Day as Billy Flynn, so it’s going to be brilliant. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the razzle-dazzle of Broadway‑style musicals, Chicago is guaranteed to wow with its dramatic numbers, sharp wit and unforgettable characters. Perfect for date nights, group outings or musical enthusiasts, this six‑night run promises that razz‑amatazz sparkle in Sunderland’s grand theatre setting, so get your tickets now on the Empire website.
Newcastle Restaurant Week – Mon 4th to Sun 10th Aug
Newcastle Restaurant Week is back and bringing a touch of tastiness to the North East summer from Monday 4th to Sunday 10th August. This is one of the biggest Restaurant Week’s in the region with over 100 venues taking part across the city with offers for £15, £20 and £25 per person. As a food lover, it’s hard for me to pick out my highlights, but some examples of the offers include two courses for £15 at the much-loved Colmans in Fenwick, three courses for £20 in the Hotel du Vin bistro and a street plate and £25 platters at Sushi Me Rollin. We’re totally spoiled for choice and there’s something for absolutely everyone, so take a look at the full list of participating restaurants on the Get Into Newcastle website and get your tables booked.
Colourscape Experience – Captain Cook Birthplace Museum – Tues 5th and Wed 6th Aug
Over Tuesday 5th and Wednesday 6th, you can step into a kaleidoscopic dream at Colourscape, hosted at the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum in Middlesbrough. These inflatable, translucent domes splash the museum grounds with vibrant colours, maze‑like tunnel paths and ever‑shifting light. It’s a sensory playground where you can wander through coloured chambers that glow with daylight and colour. It’s set to be perfect for all ages and ideal for a bit of playful exploration during the summer holidays. You’ll need a museum ticket and a Colourscape ticket for this, so have a look at the We Are Middlesbrough website to get booked in.
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
