As the days get shorter and the leaves turn red, September signals the beginning of more than just a new academic year.
Heritage Open Days - 11 September to 20 September
Opening times vary by location (Free entry)
Whether you are new or have already called this city home for a while, September allows you to explore the North East inside and out, with England’s largest festival of history and culture taking place.
Throughout the country for this period, the public are given free access into buildings of historical significance, with the help of thousands of volunteers and the National Trust. This means you can immerse yourself in the history of the North East firsthand and get a closer look at what makes this region so distinct.
From Newcastle Castle, All Saints Church and the iconic Newcastle Cathedral, why not take a peek inside?
Harvest Festival at Ouseburn Farm – 19 September
10:00 – 17:00 (Free)
(Credit: @ouseburnfarm)
Have you been to a sheep race before?
Don’t worry, me neither.
Though we could now, thanks to Ouseburn Farm and their 50th anniversary celebrations. Expect everything from community harvest feasts to food competitions like the ‘’biggest vegetable’’, and of course the aforementioned sheep race to kick off the season, just in time for this year’s autumnal equinox.
If you’re looking for the quintessential autumn event, I think this might just be it.
Samba Touré + Support at Cobalt Studios CIC – 25 September
19:00 – 22:00 (Tickets from £12)
(Credit: Cobalt Studios CIC)
Not quite ready to let go of summer?
Malian guitar legend Samba Touré can prolong the sunny season, with his distinct style that can only be experienced, not described. Mentored by the legendary Ali Farka Touré and inspired by everyday people, this sonic fusion makes his music one of a kind to listen to.
In short, hypnotic grooves, rhythmic excellence and the essence of Mali. What’s not to love?
Dragon Boat Race – 26 September
09:00 - 16:00 (Free entry)
(Image credit: NE1 Dragon Boat Race)
When you think of typical things to spot in a river, dragons aren’t the first to come to mind. Fortunately, on the last Saturday of the month this all changes when the Tyne gets flooded with intricately decorated boats, all aiming to get first place.
Whilst no actual dragons are in attendance, this annual charity race does see Newcastle come together, both on land and water, to embrace the spirit of creativity and competition.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to explore the Quayside in more depth, which will host a range of activities for visitors to take part in, so why not come along?
Guided walk of Gosforth Nature Reserve - 27 September
11:00 - 13:00 (Free)
(Image credit: RSPB Newcastle upon Tyne Local Group)
In the midst of a busy start to the year, it’s good to sometimes sit back and appreciate the natural flora and fauna around us.
On the last Sunday of the month, surround yourself with meadows, woodland, dragonflies and otters as you get guided around this hidden gem by Natural History Society of Northumbria Naturalists, only a few minutes from the city centre.
If you’re interested, be sure to wear comfy shoes and bring binoculars if you have some, to not only stay safe but get the most out of the experience. Who knows what you’ll spot in the distance!
The Odyssey: A Ten-Year Journey Home Museum Exhibition – Until 1 October
10:00 - 17:00 (Free)
If you prefer something cosier, the Great North Museum: Hancock has a beautiful display of Greek and Etruscan objects the entire month, reflecting the time period in which our ancient hero Odysseus would have been completing his journey home.
The collection includes everyday items like perfume pots, to (hopefully) not everyday items like the replica of a Greek warship, and also a carved ostrich egg!
If you like Homer’s classic, enjoyed the recent Nolan film or just the relaxed atmosphere of a museum, it’s worth checking out, right here on campus!
University and Students' Union events
International Welcome – 16 September to 18 September
10:00 - 15:00 (Free)
Regardless of whether you came back a bit earlier, or whether you are a new international student, we’d love to see you for International Welcome Week at the Frederick Douglass Centre this year!
To kick off the academic year, we have a series of planned talks and attending organisations as part of our Information Fair.
On Friday, make sure to stick around until a bit later if you are a new international student to be part of the formal Welcome Celebration, offering among other things, free pizza!
Clubs and Sports Fair – 22 September, Sports Centre
10:00 - 15:00 (Free)
Want to level up your uni experience? Whether you’re into football, archery, dance, climbing, ultimate frisbee or just fancy trying something completely new, this is the place to start.
Come along and meet members from 65+ sports clubs and teams, chat to students about joining, training, socials and what it’s really like to be part of the squad.
Societies and Volunteering Fair – 23 September, Sports Centre
10:00 - 15:00 (Free)
With over 195 student societies at the University, it might seem a bit daunting to choose just a few when you might have so many different interests. To help, you can talk to current casual and committee members of societies to find out which ones appeal to you the most!
Freebie Fair – 23 and 24 September, Venue NUSU
10:00 - 15:00 (Free)
Luckily, there are no unrealistic expectations here, it’s in the name.
Two days where brands and businesses come to campus to give students free things, discounts and deals.
It not only gives you a taste of what’s available in the area, but also gets you a ‘starter pack’ of items you may not have realised you would need for the coming year.
Be warned though, it gets busy. The queue to get into the event will be the outside staircase leading to Luther's Bar (SU).
The Big Welcome – 21 September to 11 October
(Free and discounted tickets)
An expansive and varied list of events brought to you by your Students’ Union to help get you settled in for the year. It shows you (often discounted!) opportunities to explore the University, the wider city, and even the broader North East region as a whole.
Your go-to list to browse if you ever get bored or want to explore what’s around you. Definitely check it out!
Varsity 2026/27 - Men's Rugby Union – 25 September, Kingston Park Stadium
18:00 - 20:30 (From £5)
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The city’s biggest sporting rivalry is back! Newcastle takes on Northumbria in the first Varsity clash of the 26/27 season. Expect big competition, a brilliant atmosphere and a night of Team NCL spirit at Kingston Park.
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Discover what's happening on campus and beyond:
- Student Homepage - get involved in events that enrich your student experience.
- Students’ Union What's On – find social events, activities and student-led opportunities
- Careers Service – build your skills with workshops, talks and employer events
- library calendar – improve your academic and study skills
- your school – check for events and activities tailored to your course