Top October Events - 2026

Written by Zsofia Toth | Oct 12, 2026, 6:57:26 AM

Make the most of autumn!

October brings crisp air and horror films. While we wait for the grand finale at the end of the month, there are plenty of other events to get stuck into.

 

Visit Jesmond Dene 

The perfect way to end September and welcome October is with a walk through scenic Jesmond Dene.

Depending on the weather, you could find yourself in a quaint Victorian valley or a more gothic landscape beneath duskier skies.

Whether you go with the Students’ Union or explore independently, a visit to Jesmond Dene is a lovely way to begin autumn.

 

 

The Pussycat Dolls Tour | 9 October 

9 October | 17:30 | Tickets from £78

Newcastle has a vibrant tribute scene, but sometimes you just want to see the original.

The 2000s icons The Pussycat Dolls are performing at Utilita Arena Newcastle soon, bringing their familiar hits centre stage.

Whether you’re after some Y2K nostalgia or are a lifelong fan, you can still grab a last-minute ticket.

 

 

Oktoberfest Newcastle | 10-24 October 

10–24 October | 12:00–17:30 or 18:00–23:00 | Tickets from £9.50

Steins, bratwursts and Bavarian beer halls: what a combination.

Germany may be a little far away, but you don’t have to miss out on the charm of Oktoberfest. On the remaining Saturdays this month, you can book a ticket and immerse yourself in the autumnal festivities.

 

 

2026 Mercury Prize | 22 October

22 October | Doors open at 18:30 | Tickets from £48 (£30 for Newcastle University students)

The Mercury Prize brings together some of the biggest names in music to celebrate the best of the UK music scene. This year’s performers include RAYE, Florence + The Machine and JADE.

Even better, 88 discounted tickets are available for Newcastle University students, making this incredible experience more accessible on a student budget.

 

 

Blackout | 23 October

23 October | Doors open at 19:30 | Tickets from £25

If plays are more your thing, what better way to build up to Halloween than with an immersive horror experience in a Victorian theatre?

This October, Tyne Theatre & Opera House will transport you to a spectral world through set, sound and atmosphere. As they put it, “fear loves an audience”.

Grab a ticket and bring a couple of friends. I know I wouldn’t be brave enough to go alone.

 

 

Lord of the Wings | 23-24 October

23-24 October | 15:00 until late | Free entry

Food and fantasy are two of the best things in the world. Combine them, and a whole new world of possibilities opens up.

Bring your knowledge of food and Middle-earth: you’ll find dozens of vendors, creatively named dishes and some seriously good food.

While you’re there, consider exploring Exhibition Park, too. With its expansive fields, Victorian bandstands and tennis courts, it’s a lovely place to walk off a hearty meal.

 

 

Pumpkin Caving (NUSU) | 23-24 October

28 October, 15:30 until 16:30 | 29 October, 16:00 until 17:00 until late | Tickets from £2

October wouldn’t be complete without carving at least one pumpkin. This year, your Students’ Union will provide the tools you need to get your home ready for Halloween.

For just £2, you can show off your artistic talents and take home some seasonal décor. Depending on where you shop, it could even cost less than buying a pumpkin yourself.

Why not come along?

 

 

Nightmare on Campus: Halloween Clubnight | 31 October

31 October | From 22:00 | Tickets available from NUSU 

We love October, but let’s be honest: the day we look forward to most is the last one.

To celebrate, the Students’ Union is teaming up with nightlife veteran Loosedays to bring you a Halloween experience worthy of the occasion.

Make sure you sort out your costume in time. With everyone else dressing up, Halloween staples could be in short supply. Necessity may be the mother of invention, but planning ahead is much easier.