Small gigs, comedy, markets, festivals, theatre and family days out coming up across Newcastle. Always check with the venue before you travel.
The first major UK gallery show from artist collective Keiken centres on a playable sci-fi game, surrounded by sculpture and new sound work. Entry is free, Wednesday to Sunday.
A Friday night of top-flight basketball as the Eagles take on Surrey 89ers in the Super League Basketball Championship. A lively, family-friendly night out.
Three days of jazz in Durham, from Gypsy swing on the Friday afternoon to a big band headliner at the Gala on Saturday, plus pop-up sets in bars and restaurants around town.
The New York indie heroes bring their arena tour to Newcastle, with Fat White Family and Alex Cameron in support.
The QI regular and Jonathan Creek star returns to stand-up with his first tour in around a decade. Suitable for over-16s.
A half-term treat: the film on the big screen with Royal Northern Sinfonia playing John Powell's soaring score live. There is a Wednesday matinee for younger fans.
A five-course Elizabethan-style feast in a famously spooky castle, with mead, a ghostly piper, costumed characters and a disco to finish. Over-16s only, and fancy dress is encouraged.
A free seaside fireworks show, with fairground rides and refreshments from 6pm and the display itself at 7pm. If the weather turns, it moves to the following night.
The much-loved musical about a County Durham miner's son who dreams of ballet settles in at the Empire for most of November, which feels like a fitting home for it.
The Dublin pop-rock trio bring their big singalong choruses to the arena on Bonfire Night as part of their UK and Ireland tour.
A free community fireworks night with live music, rides and refreshments, and a display set to family favourite tunes.
The Live at the Apollo and Last One Laughing comic shares tales of dating and an unexpected run of good luck in her new hour. Best for ages 14 and up.
The city's festive season kicks off with free live music, games and special guests from 6pm, building up to the big switch-on at 7pm.
Phil Wang's new stand-up show finds him older, wiser and sporting a moustache. Expect sharp, silly observations and some strong language.
An evening celebration of the festival of lights with puja prayers, vegetarian snacks, crafts, music and dance. Tickets are just £3 and need booking in advance.
The rock legends open their UK arena tour in Newcastle, with special guests Mammoth and Jayler billed.
More than 70 stalls spread around the Monument and surrounding streets, with hot food at Old Eldon Square. Open 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.
The garden and the Lilidorei play village glow after dark for the festive season, with one ticket covering both. Prices vary by date, so it pays to book early.
A mile and a half of illuminated trail and sound installations through the Deer Park beside Auckland Palace, with food stalls and a Santa village. Closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Christmases past brought to life across the open-air museum every day, included with admission. Separately ticketed Christmas Evenings run on six Thursdays and Fridays in December.
Danny Adams, Clive Webb and Chris Hayward return for the Theatre Royal's famously daft panto, joined by Joe McElderry as the Spirit of the Beans.
Artisan stalls, handmade gifts and seasonal food in the castle's Guest Hall, with all ticket money going to the charity Smile For Life.
A new family adaptation of Andersen's fairytale, following brave Gerda on her quest to rescue her friend Kai. Recommended for ages 5 and up.
A big craft and producers' marquee in the shadow of the cathedral, packed with gifts, decorations and festive food, with street food and live music outside.
The Tyne-Wear derby returns to St James' Park in the Premier League. Kick-off times can shift for TV, so check before you travel.
Tina Fey's musical comedy about new girl Cady and the Plastics heads north straight from the West End. Best for ages 10 and up.
A midweek Premier League night under the lights as the Magpies host Chelsea.
Reginald Rose's gripping jury-room drama, with a cast including Gray O'Brien, Bill Ward and Ricky Norwood. Tickets for 18 to 30s are available.
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