- Play Hard
- 3rd Jan 2026
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What’s actually on in January? Culture, comedy and events worth leaving the sofa for
January might feel like the quiet month after the festive chaos, but the North East has loads happening that’ll make you want to brave the cold (and leave the sofa) without emptying your wallet.
We’ve rounded up standout culture, comedy and event ideas that are fun, affordable and right on your doorstep…
ART AND CULTURE
Miniature Worlds
Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle upon Tyne
When: From now until 28th February 2026
Dive into three centuries of tiny landscapes at this enchanting exhibition exploring illustration and art from Thomas Bewick to Beatrix Potter. With over 130 works on display, it’s perfect for a slow-paced cultural day out – and there are talks and workshops too, including a curator talk on 28th January.
Three Artists: Zac Weinberg, Joanna Manousis, and Anthony Amoako-Attah
National Glass Centre, Sunderland
When: From now until 10th January 2026
A fascinating fusion of contemporary painting, mixed media and conceptual pieces. This exhibition is definitely not one to miss and is perfect for an early-month culture trip.
Lotte Dijkstra: Urban Forest Stories
The Farrell Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne
When: From now until 30th January 2026
Until 30th January, this exhibition explores humanity’s relationship with woodlands through evocative imagery and thought-provoking visuals – a gentle but powerful winter cultural outing.
Saodat Ismailova: As We Fade
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead
When: From now until 7th June 2026
A striking contemporary art exhibition that blends film, installation and storytelling. It runs into June 2026, so January is a great chance to catch it on a quieter day.
LAUGHS AND LIVE NIGHTS
Cinderella Adult Panto
Tyne Theatre & Opera House, Newcastle upon Tyne
When: From Friday 2nd January – Sunday 4th January 2026
If you like your fairy tales with a very grown-up twist, this is one January night out you won’t forget. Tyne Theatre’s adult panto version of Cinderella is packed with outrageous humour, dazzling costumes and plenty of cheeky innuendo – definitely not one for the kids.
Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My Life
Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, Hexham
When: Saturday 31st January 2026, 7:30pm
A proper feel-good comedy fix for January. Justin Moorhouse brings his warm, brilliantly relatable stand-up to Hexham with a show packed full of big laughs and everyday observations. Perfect if you fancy an easy night out that guarantees you’ll leave smiling.
Jam Jam Sandwich
The Black Swan, Newcastle Arts Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne
When: Tuesday 13th January 2026
This free-spirited musical session is all about good vibes and great tunes – expect everything from funky grooves to soulful improvisation. Perfect with a drink in hand.
MUSIC, DANCE AND DRESSING UP
Yeehaw 4th Birthday Party
Digital, Newcastle upon Tyne
When: Saturday 31st January 2026, 4pm
Fancy a bit of line dancing and country party fun to close the month? Yeehaw’s birthday bash on 31st January at Digital Newcastle brings lively live performers and DJ sets with a western twist. Tickets start from around £16.90, and this one’s very much dressed-up and dance-floor energy.
Local Pub Gigs
Various Venues
Across January you’ll find loads of free live music nights at friendly local spots – great for discovering new bands and having a proper night out without spending a fortune. Places like Big Jug in Durham, Crown & Cannon in Winlaton (Gateshead), Blacksmiths Arms in Gosforth and Runhead Bar in Ryton host regular free gigs with different acts every weekend – from rock and blues to indie and roots.
Tyneside Americana Blues Festival
King Street Social Club, Tynemouth, North Shields
When: Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th January 2026
Over at King Street Social Club in North Shields, this festival brings blues, folk and roots sounds across multiple nights. The vibe is soulful and welcoming, and while some ticketed sessions might have a small cost, it’s a brilliant way to spend a weekend immersed in live music and community spirit.
Jazz Sundays
The Fire Station, Sunderland
When: Sunday 18th January 2026
Smooth sounds, cosy vibes and free entry – what more do you need? Jazz Sundays at The Fire Station are a laid-back way to ease yourself out of the weekend, with live jazz from local musicians in one of Sunderland’s coolest cultural spaces. For their January event, they’ll be showcasing the wonderful Michael Young Trio.
With culture, comedy, music and fresh-air adventures on the lineup, this January is anything but dull. Pop on your warmest coat, grab a friend and get out there – the North East’s got plenty to keep you smiling (and off the sofa).
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