There’s no place like Newcastle in summer, August is when the city truly comes alive. From throwback music festivals and global street food to live gigs and family fun, the Toon is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a seasoned Geordie explorer or a first-time visitor, now's the time to dive in.
Looking for a cheap hotel in Newcastle to crash after a day (and night) of exploring? Kabannas Newcastle is a stylish, fun and affordable hotel in Newcastle, right in the beating heart of the city. You couldn’t get a better hotel in Newcastle city centre—especially if you're keen to walk to most of these events!
Here are 4 of the best things to do in Newcastle this August, with everything you need to plan your adventure:
1. Noughty 90s Festival
23rd August | All Day | Leazes Park
Dust off your bucket hat, grab your mates, and relive the golden age of dance, trance and pop at this wild one-day festival. The Noughty 90s Festival is a neon-soaked celebration of everything cheesy, nostalgic and unapologetically fun. Expect iconic performers like Basshunter, Cascada, Ultrabeat and Darren Styles taking over the stage, plus themed arenas, foam parties, and fancy dress galore.
This isn’t just a gig—it’s an all-out retro rave with fairground rides, confetti blasts and massive sing-alongs under the summer sky. If you’ve got even the tiniest love for 90s/00s anthems, this is your moment.
2. Newcastle Mela
24 - 25th August | All Day | Exhibition Park
A true celebration of culture, colour and community, the Newcastle Mela is one of the region’s biggest multicultural festivals—and it’s completely free to attend. Held over two sun-soaked days in the beautiful Exhibition Park, this event brings the best of South Asian music, dance, food and fashion to the city.
Live performances range from traditional Bhangra and classical Kathak to modern Bollywood and hip-hop fusion. Wander between stalls sampling fresh samosas, spicy curries, and sweet jalebi, then browse handmade crafts and vibrant saris. With family-friendly activities, kids’ zones and art workshops, it’s perfect for all ages.
3. Come Together Festival
20 - 24th August | All Day | Town Moor
Newcastle's biggest music festival is back and better than ever. Spanning five days of world-class music across multiple stages, Come Together Festival transforms Town Moor into a mini city of sound. With chart-topping headliners including Robbie Williams, Kings of Leon, Richard Ashcroft, and Stormzy, there's something for every music taste—from indie rock and pop to R&B and hip-hop.
This is more than a concert—it's a full-on experience, complete with street food markets, VIP lounges, art installations, and pop-up bars. Whether you're going all-in with a weekend pass or picking your favourite day to attend, this is the festival to mark on your calendar.
4. High Octane Family Fest
If you’re travelling with family, the High Octane Family Fest at Newcastle Racecourse is a fantastic option for a fun-filled day out. This dynamic two-day event includes stunt shows, monster trucks, BMX displays, classic car exhibitions, and even an air show with jaw-dropping balloon stunts.
There’s a huge family fairground packed with rides for all ages, a kids' play zone, and loads of street food options—from wood-fired pizza to churros. Live music and entertainment throughout the day keeps the energy high, and the friendly vibe makes it easy to relax while the kids let off steam.
Where to stay
After all the dancing, street food feasting, and festival hopping, you’ll need a place to recharge and Kabannas Newcastle is the perfect pick. Located right in the heart of the action, it’s an ideal hotel in Newcastle city centre, just a five-minute walk from Central Station, the city’s buzzing nightlife, and top shopping spots.
Your summer adventure in Newcastle Starts here. Book your stay now.
