Looking for something to do in the middle of September 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 Friday 12th to Saturday 20th September.
Kynren – Bishop Auckland – Sat 13th Sept
It’s your final chance to witness the magic of Kynren in 2025 and what a way to go out! Taking place on Saturday 13th, this spectacular outdoor show in Bishop Auckland whisks you through 2000 years of British history in 90 breathtaking minutes. Expect galloping horses, dramatic battles, dazzling pyrotechnics, and a full-size Viking longship (yes, really). If you’ve never seen Kynren, this is the time and if you have seen it, maybe you want to see it one last time before the curtain closes for the year? Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and settle in for a night of epic storytelling under the stars! Book tickets via the Kynren website.
North Tyneside Together Festival – Northumberland Square, North Shields – Sat 13th Sept
Looking for something fun, free, and full of community spirit? Head to Northumberland Square in North Shields on Saturday 13th for the North Tyneside Together Festival! This vibrant, family-friendly day out brings live music, street food, family entertainment, and plenty of feel-good vibes to the heart of the town. Expect a bustling atmosphere with stalls, small fairground rides, activities in the library and giant games. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to summer (with a cupcake in one hand and a steel band playing in the background). No ticket needed, just turn up and enjoy!
Re-opening of Preston Park Museum – Stockton-on-Tees – Sat 13th and Sun 14th Sept
After a fabulous extension and makeover, Preston Park Museum is throwing open its doors again for a weekend of celebrations on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th, and you’re invited! There’ll be live music, heritage-themed fun, family crafts, and perhaps a Victorian surprise or two. Whether you’re rediscovering its charming period street, picking flowers in the walled gardens, or introducing little ones to its curious collections, the museum’s re-opening weekend is all about celebrating the past with a joyful nod to the future. You’ll also be able to explore the newest railway history exhibitions as part of the S&DR200 celebrations – Corridors, All Aboard, Gateway to the World and Women of Experiment. Come for the history, stay for the party atmosphere. Included with day admission or an annual pass.
Stanhope Show – Unthank Park – Sat 13th and Sun 14th Sept
Dust off your wellies and head to Unthank Park for the Stanhope Show on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th – a proper countryside classic! Expect champion livestock, horse and pony classes, thrilling main ring entertainment, local produce, craft stalls, and more farmyard fun than you can shake a pitchfork at. It’s the perfect blend of rural tradition and modern family fun, complete with fairground rides, sheepdog displays, and stunt bike displays. Whether you’re a seasoned show-goer or just fancy something a bit different, Stanhope has a little something for everyone and plenty of moo-ments to remember! Tickets available to book on the Stanhope Show website.
Vintage Blyth – Market Place – Sat 13th and Sun 14th Sept
Step back in time at Vintage Blyth, rolling into the Market Place on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th! This charming retro festival is packed with live music, fashion and nostalgic fun from decades past. Think rockabilly tunes, fabulous frocks, and stalls brimming with pre-loved treasures. Whether you’re a lover of all things vintage or just fancy a wander through yesteryear with an ice cream in hand, this feel-good festival brings the glamour of the past into the heart of Blyth. This is a free event with no ticket needed, so just drop in over the weekend.
Inside No. 9 Stage/Fright – Sunderland Empire – Tues 16th to Sat 20th Sept
Calling all fans of dark comedy and clever twists, Inside No. 9: Stage/Fright hits the Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 16th to Saturday 20th, and it’s as chillingly brilliant as you’d expect! Penned by the wickedly talented Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, this new stage adaptation dives deep into the unsettling, hilarious world of Inside No. 9. Expect secrets, shocks, and sharp wit, all set within the eerie confines of a theatrical production (within a production, naturally). Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good mind-bender, this is one night out where things are rarely what they seem. Grab your tickets now on the Sunderland Empire website.
Seven Drunken Nights – Darlington Hippodrome – Wed 17th Sept
Raise a glass at Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners, bringing the sounds of Ireland to the Darlington Hippodrome on Wednesday 17th. This toe-tapping tribute show celebrates the music, the humour, and the spirit of the legendary folk band, with live musicians, storytelling, and all your favourite classics. From “Whiskey in the Jar” to “The Wild Rover,” expect a night of raucous fun, heartfelt melodies, and plenty of craic. Whether you’re Irish, part-Irish, or just Irish-at-heart, you’ll be clapping, laughing, and swaying in your seat in no time! Grab your tickets now on the Darlington Hippodrome website.
Lord of the Wings Food Battle – Wylam Brewery – Fri 19th and Sat 20th Sept
Chicken lovers, rejoice! The Lord of the Wings food battle returns to Wylam Brewery on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th, and it’s finger-lickin’ fierce. Some of the North’s finest street food vendors will be going head-to-head in a battle of sauces, spices, and supreme wingmanship. Whether you like them fiery hot, sticky sweet, or classic and crispy, you’ll get to sample and vote for your faves. Throw in live music, plenty of pints, and a buzzing beer hall atmosphere, and you’ve got yourself a clucking good time. Get there early, these wings fly fast! This event is free entry and you purchase tokens in order to buy wings. No ticket to book!
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
