About
Durham Brass Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever as it celebrates two decades of bringing one of the biggest celebrations of brass to the region in 2026.
Durham Brass Festival is back next year, from Sunday 12 to Sunday 19 July, for a week packed with spectacular performances, new commissions, free concerts, community activities and lively street bands.
The Durham County Council festival will be marking a major milestone next year – 20 years since the Durham Brass Festival first brought world-class music to the county.
With performances taking place across Durham City and in towns and villages throughout the county, the festival will feature events in streets, parks, historic venues, care homes and schools, creating unforgettable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Festival highlights include:
ELVANA: Viva Brass Vegas (with Oompah Brass XXL)
Sunday 12 July 2026 at Gala Theatre, Durham
Brass & Pipes: Howard Beaumont & Stanhope Silver Band
Friday 17 July 2026 at New Victoria Centre, Howden‑le‑Wear
Hector Gannet: Talking in the Mother Tongue
Friday 17 July 2026 at Redhills Miners’ Hall, Durham
Brassed On (Dilettante, Isabel Maria, Vice Killer)
Saturday 18 July 2026 at Gala Theatre, Durham
EverReady Band: Myth, Magic & More
Saturday 18 July 2026 at Durham Cathedral
Grimethorpe Colliery Band in Concert
Sunday 19 July 2026 at Gala Theatre, Durham
Streets of Brass
Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 July 2026 (daytime) across the streets of Durham City
Party in the Park
Saturday 18 July 2026, 5pm–9pm at Wharton Park Amphitheatre, Durham
Brass Boat Cruises
Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 July 2026 sailing on the River Wear (Elvet Bridge Boat House, Durham)
Big Brass Bash
Dates TBC (July 2026) Parks across the county
Check the Durham Brass Festival website for updates.
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Find out what’s happening this week across the Culture County. From festivals and exhibitions, to sport and theatre, you’re certain to have an eventful time in Durham.
