Newcastle-under-Lyme events

In a borough that offers a blend of countryside and culture, a packed events calendar is to be expected, and Newcastle-under-Lyme does not disappoint! 

From year-round events such as the antique and vintage markets to seasonal fayre including summer jazz and bonfire night bonanzas, the borough has something for everyone. 

Community events take place throughout the year, from heritage walks to art competitions and street performances to traditional celebrations. 

Year-round calendar of fantastic events in Newcastle under Lyme 

Early in the year, the theatre season is in full swing, and The New Vic’s Christmas spectacular continues into January to beat those winter blues. 

The theatre’s award-winning shows and events are a must-see, with touring productions and artists also regularly featured. 

Revving up for a season of fun, Newcastle-under-Lyme starts the spring with Castle Classics Retro and Classic Vehicle Show in March, a free event featuring timeless classic vehicles, including hot rods, scooters, military vehicles, and rare beauties, with a live DJ set and vintage traders. This popular event returns to Newcastle’s Ironmarket in October.  

Lovers of live music can make a weekend of it in May, when the Lymelight Festival brings the best of local talent into the spotlight. 

With two outdoor stages in Newcastle’s High Street and the Ironmarket, this annual celebration of music has seen more than 650 local bands perform in the town centre since its inception in 2013. 

With talent from across the borough and the wider county showcased outdoors and in local venues, the event is supported by Castle Artisan Market across the weekend, with Cannonball Record Fair joining the fun on the Sunday. 

In summer, the town usually celebrates Astley’s Homecoming, paying homage to the Father of the Modern Circus by creating a day of circus-themed fun for all. 

With roaming performers and street artists at key locations throughout the town centre, offering comedy, clowning, acrobatics, and tricks, visitors will be enthralled and entertained at every step. 

Later in the summer, the July Jazz and Blues Festival takes over the town of Newcastle-under-Lyme, with multiple venues hosting dozens of gigs across three days. 

With performances taking place across traditional venues such as pubs and clubs, as well as in café bars, restaurants, and even the museum, the event attracts a host of artists from the local and national jazz and blues scene. 

Later in the summer, visitors can swap the town for the countryside, where Betley Show brings together a fantastic blend of traditional fun and exciting entertainment. 

The big weekend includes tractor pulling, horse show, farm animals, and clay pigeon shooting as well as horticultural and handicraft competitions, trade stands, food and drink options, and a host of attractions in the community tent and display ring. There’s more than enough for a fun-filled day out. 

In October Kidsgrove’s Scarecastle event gives Halloween a new twist, combining traditional spooky fun with a boat ride through the notorious Harecastle Tunnel – once one of the longest canal tunnels in Britain. 

With crafts and activities for kids and some fascinating history to explore, there’s Halloween fun for all the family. 

Darker nights are lit up in November by Guy Fawkes Night events across the UK, and in the borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, the Betley bonfire is one to watch. 

With a fireworks and pyrotechnics display set to music, this sparkling spectacle aims to awe. 

A funfair offers a range of thrilling rides and gentle enjoyment for all ages, and with a variety of hot food and drink vendors, the event certainly offers the chance to mark Bonfire Night in style.