Looking for something to do at the end of September or start of October 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 25th September to Friday 3rd October.
Middlesbrough Art Week – Thurs 25th Sept to Sat 4th Oct
Middlesbrough Art Week returns from Thursday 25th September to Saturday 4th October, transforming the town into a creative playground! Expect everything from large-scale installations and pop-up exhibitions to interactive workshops and performances. Whether you’re a seasoned art-lover or just curious, there’s something to delight every imagination. Local and international artists will take over galleries, cafes, and even the streets, with plenty of chances to get hands-on. It’s the perfect excuse to explore Middlesbrough in full colour and maybe pick up a paintbrush yourself. Free events, family-friendly activities, and a buzzing creative energy await. Take a look at the Middlesbrough Art Week website for more info.
S&DR200 Anniversary Journey Weekend – Durham, Darlington & Stockton – Fri 26th to Sun 28th Sept
All aboard for the S&DR200 Anniversary Journey Weekend from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th September 2025, celebrating 200 years since the historic Stockton & Darlington Railway first chugged into the history books! This weekend centres around a newly renovated replica of Locomotion No.1, which will be recreating its first journey back in 1825. It’ll start at Locomotion in Shildon on Friday, head to Hopetown Darlington on Saturday, and finish in Stockton on Sunday. Tickets for the official viewing areas are sold out, but there are many other points where you’ll be able to see the train and you can find a timetable here. Alongside this journey, there’ll be events across Durham, Darlington and Stockton, such as Southpaw Dance Company’s STEAM performance in Hackworth Park and Stockton town centre, and live music in Darlington town centre. It’s going to be a whole weekend of fun and a once in a lifetime experience, so take a look!
South West Durham Heritage Festival – Bishop Auckland – Sat 27th Sept
Step back in time at the South West Durham Heritage Festival on Saturday 27th September in Bishop Auckland! This one-day celebration is packed with history and heritage talks, traditional crafts, and good old-fashioned community spirit. This is all taking place in Bishop Auckland Town Hall, while outside, you can wander the classic cars organised by the Northern Bygone Society. It’s the perfect chance to discover (or rediscover) the stories that shaped South West Durham, create a coat of arms and really feel pride in the local area. It’s free to go along to and no ticket needed!
Classic Car Rally Weekend – Beamish Museum – Sat 27th and Sun 28th Sept
Rev your engines for the Classic Car Rally Weekend at Beamish Museum, happening Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September! This beloved weekend event brings together a gleaming display of vintage motors, from 1920s beauties to post-war icons, all nestled in the period-perfect surroundings of Beamish. Wander through history on wheels, chat with proud owners, and enjoy vintage entertainment and old-timey charm. Whether you’re a motoring buff or just love the nostalgia, it’s a brilliant day out for the whole family and plus, your admission ticket grants you access to the whole site for 12 months!
Viking Weekend – Ushaw House – Sat 27th and Sun 28th Sept
Grab your shield and prepare for a legendary weekend at Ushaw House’s Viking Weekend on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September! Meet fierce (but friendly) Norse warriors, watch dramatic combat displays, explore Viking crafts and storytelling, and enjoy family-friendly activities inspired by life over 1000 years ago. Kids can test their sword skills, try on helmets, or even raid the gift shop (nicely, of course). The beautiful grounds of Ushaw will echo with the sounds of history and horn-blowing as the past comes vividly to life. It’s the ultimate weekend for little adventurers and big history fans alike! The event is included with a day pass or annual membership, so check out the Ushaw website to book.
Bark in the Park Dog Show – Raby Castle – Sun 28th Sept
Paws at the ready! Bark in the Park returns to the stunning grounds of Raby Castle on Sunday 28th September for a tail-wagging good time. This fun dog show is perfect for four-legged friends and their humans, with adorable competitions, agility displays, pet-themed stalls, and plenty of treats for all. From waggiest tail to best fancy dress, your pup might just strut away with a rosette! Even if you don’t have a dog, come along for a day of fresh air, furry fun, and castle views. Sit, stay, and enjoy the cutest event of the season! A ticket is required and it grants you access to the deer park and gardens too, so book via the Raby Castle website.
Ouseburn Farm Harvest Festival – Sun 28th Sept
Celebrate the season at Ouseburn Farm’s Harvest Festival on Sunday 28th September! It’s a wholesome day of autumn cheer with farm animals, seasonal produce, family crafts, and live music in the heart of Newcastle’s creative quarter. Say hello to the goats, pick up some locally grown veggies, and check out the competitions. There’s something heartwarming around every hay bale! Great for kids, couples, or anyone craving a bit of countryside charm without leaving the city. Come hungry, leave happy, and don’t forget to pet the pigs. Entry to the farm and the festival is free, but the competitions are ticketed and can be booked via the Ouseburn Farm website.
Mary Poppins – Sunderland Empire – Wed 1st to Sat 25th Oct
It’s practically perfect in every way! From Wednesday 1st to Saturday 25th October 2025, Mary Poppins floats into the Sunderland Empire for a magical run of this much-loved musical. With unforgettable songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and jaw-dropping stagecraft, this production will charm audiences young and old. Follow the Banks children and their remarkable nanny through a whirlwind of adventure, heart, and chimney sweeps. Whether you’ve loved Mary since childhood or are introducing her to the next generation, expect a spoonful of sugar and a lot of smiles. Book your tickets on the Sunderland Empire website.
Newcastle Cocktail Week – Fri 3rd to Sun 12th Oct
Raise a glass because Newcastle Cocktail Week is shaking things up from Friday 3rd to Sunday 12th October! Enjoy ten days of delicious deals and exclusive menus across the city’s coolest bars. Whether you’re into classic martinis, fruity fusions, or bold new concoctions, there’s something to tickle every tastebud. All you need to do is grab a wristband from the Newcastle Cocktail Week website and this will unlock exclusive menus at a ton of venues. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your mates, sip something fabulous, and explore the city’s buzzing nightlife scene. Drink responsibly, but don’t forget to Instagram your favourite tipple!
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
