Have an eventful start to 2026 across the Culture County

Have an eventful start to 2026 across the Culture County. From the dazzling spectacle of Fire and Ice in Durham City to a weekend of mouthwatering street food and family fun at the Bishop Auckland Festival, we have plenty of events to get your new year off to a fun-filled start. We have picked a few highlights below...

Dick Whittington and his Cat at Beamish Museum

The Beamish Pantomime is back… oh yes, it is!  Running from 10 January to 8 February and held in the 1950s Welfare Hall for a show like no other, full of music, mischief and a little touch of magic.

Seafood Masterclass at South Causey Inn

Experience an unforgettable seafood masterclass at South Causey Inn on January 17. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Peter Miskin, you’ll learn the art of preparing, cooking, and savouring the finest seafood in an interactive, hands-on experience.

Simon Brodkin at The Whitham

Hot off the back of his smash hit UK tour, and three incredible sold-out nights at London's Hammersmith Apollo, Simon Brodkin is back and better than ever at the Whitham on 10 February.

Chinese New Year Celebrations

Durham City is gearing up to host vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations. On Saturday, 21 February, the city will welcome the Year of the Horse with a fantastic lineup of traditional events and activities. Festivities will take place across multiple locations, including Durham Town Hall, Clayport Library, The Oriental Museum, and the bustling city centre.

Fire & Ice Durham

Experience the enchantment of Fire and Ice in Durham City from 27 to 28 February, which will be transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Marvel at stunning ice sculptures crafted by world-class artists and illuminated with vibrant lights throughout the streets. As night falls, fiery performances light up the atmosphere with spectacular displays of heat and flame. This family-friendly event features interactive installations, live entertainment, and themed displays inspired by the elemental forces of fire and ice.

Vivienne Westwood: Rebel - Storyteller - Visionary at The Bowes Museum

Running from 28 March to 6 September, this multi-gallery exhibition celebrates one of fashion’s most daring and imaginative designers. Spanning the early 1980s through to the 2000s, it traces Westwood’s evolution from her punk rebellion alongside Malcolm McLaren to her reinvention of historical dress and couture.

Bishop Auckland Food Festival

The popular Durham County Council-run festival will return to Bishop Auckland on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 April, for a weekend of sizzling street food, celebrity chef demonstrations, delicious desserts and fun-filled family entertainment. Across the two days, visitors can try produce from over 140 independent traders selling everything from burgers and savoury snacks, cakes and sweet treats, to jams, pickles, breads and a range of distillers.

Durham City World Heritage Day

Celebrate Durham City’s incredible World Heritage Site on 25 April with a day of free, family-friendly fun. Enjoy activities for all ages, including live music, medieval re-enactments, Quidditch matches, craft workshops, and so much more.

Durham Cricket - England Women V New Zealand Women ODI

Durham Cricket is set to host international cricket once again in 2026. The stadium, one of the country’s most picturesque and fan-friendly venues, will welcome fans for an exciting summer of international action, starting with England Women taking on New Zealand Women in a thrilling one day international on 10 May.

There are plenty more experiences to discover in 2026 across the Culture County. Why not make it part of a great getaway to Durham.