The Late Shows is an annual, free, late night cultural extravaganza that residents and visitors can enjoy. On 16th and 17th May, all across Newcastle and Gateshead, there will be the opportunity to experience a wealth of cultural activities, featuring art studios, music, performance, galleries, museums and a host of fun and intriguing events.
Click here to see the full programme and a map of activities, venues and locations
- The Late Shows take place from 6pm-10.30pm, with last entry at 10pm
- Friday night is for Ouseburn Valley venues
- Saturday night’s event takes place at venues across central Newcastle and Gateshead with Gateshead venues open from 6-10pm, last entry at 9.30pm
- Many venues are within walking distance from each other, but there are some free buses on offer (click here for details of buses to venues)
Whether you are new to the city or know it well, The Late Shows enables you to curate your own tour of the city and get involved in the cultural life of Newcastle and Gateshead, choosing from a selection of 72 activities.
Organisers and sponsors
- The Late Shows is co-ordinated by North East Museums in association with Gateshead Council, Newcastle City Council and Arts Council England.
- Creative Central NCL is a project funded by the North East Combined Authority and Newcastle City Council. It is one of three Cultural and Creative Zones in the region funded by the North East Combined Authority.
- Stagecoach are sponsoring The Late shows for the first time in 2025, to help to make music, arts, performing arts and much more accessible to all. Stagecoach will be supplying several of their new electric vehicles for the free bus service, providing visitors with a journey which is better for the environment and more comfortable too.