Events in Durham

Bishop Auckland Food Festival - The region's biggest food event has plenty on the menu with exciting street food, tempting tipples and indulgent treats, alongside an amazing line up of celebrity chefs and workshops. Taking place every April.

Durham Regatta – The historic regatta returns to the River Wear in Durham City every June, with a spectacular weekend of racing and riverbank entertainment. The second oldest regatta in the UK - Durham Regatta dates back to 1983, but its roots can be traced back even further to 1815!

Seaham Food Festival - The seaside foodie festival returns to the bustling town of Seaham every summer (August) with delicious street food, cookery classes, live music, TV chefs and tasty local produce.

Durham Miners' Gala – The annual 'Big Meeting' takes place on the second Saturday of July every year. The annual gathering has been held on the second Saturday of July in Durham City since 1871 and this weekend as always promises to be another fantastic event.

Durham Brass Festival - Durham’s loudest festival takes place every July, with brilliant bands and outstanding musicians from across the globe descending on the county, for a ten-day celebration of all things brass.

Kynren, An Epic Tale of England - The award-winning night-time spectacular outdoor show takes place in the grounds of Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland every summer season, select Saturday evenings, from July to September. 

Wolsingham Show – Celebrate farming life every September at England’s oldest and Durham’s biggest open-air agricultural show. A jam-packed weekend of family-friendly entertainment.

Durham Book Festival – Founded in 1990, Durham Book Festival is one of the country’s oldest literary festivals and takes place every October, with an exciting programme of in-person and online events, talks and workshops.

North Pennines Stargazing Festival – As the clocks go back, and the night skies become darker, Durham’s dark skies come alive as dark sky season begins. Unlock the wonders of the night sky with 'out of this world' activities and events at the annual North Pennines Stargazing Festival during October half term (late October to early November).

Lumiere Durham - The UK’s light art biennial, returns to Durham City every other November, with a new programme of spectacular light artworks which transform the historic streets of Durham City into a magical night-time art trail. View Lumiere group travel information.

Durham Christmas Festival - Soak up the atmosphere at Durham City’s annual festive festival, with fabulous Christmas shopping, carol services, live music, street performers and more! Taking place on the first weekend of December every year.

Discover more of Durham’s packed calendar of festivals and events.