What's On in Newcastle

Newcastle Beyond Van Gogh — One of the most talked-about immersive art experiences in the world has landed at Utilita Arena, and it is every bit as spectacular as it sounds. Step inside and let Van Gogh's Starry Night, Sunflowers, and dozens of other iconic works wash over you in floor-to-ceiling projected animation — it is less like visiting a gallery and more like falling headfirst into a painting. Sessions run from 10:00am through to 6:00pm with half-hourly entry slots, so whether you're an early bird or an afternoon wanderer, there is a time to suit you — check the website for ticket prices and to book your slot.

Absolute Bowie — If you have ever wanted to witness Ziggy Stardust strut across a stage in Newcastle, this is your moment — Absolute Bowie is widely regarded as the finest David Bowie tribute act in the country, and watching them fill the grand O2 City Hall is nothing short of a theatrical event. Expect every era of Bowie represented, from the glam rock shimmer of the early seventies through to the cool sophistication of the Let's Dance years, all delivered with extraordinary attention to detail. Doors open ahead of a 6:30pm start, so grab a drink, find your seat, and get ready for a night that will have you singing all the way home — check the website for tickets.

Not Green Day — The Cluny is one of Newcastle's most beloved small venues — intimate, loud, and always full of people who genuinely care about the music — and tonight it hosts Not Green Day, a tribute act that captures the scrappy, three-chord glory of Dookie and American Idiot era punk-pop with serious passion. If you spent any part of your youth with eyeliner on and a well-worn hoodie, this is the kind of Friday night that feels like going home. Kicks off at 7:30pm — check the website for tickets.

The Goodness - Friday Nights @ Billy's — For something a little more low-key but no less joyful, Billy Bootleggers hosts The Goodness from 7:30pm, and at just £0–£2 on the door it might be the best-value Friday night in the city. It is the kind of unpretentious, feel-good live music evening where you turn up not quite knowing what to expect and leave having had the time of your week. Grab a pint, find a spot, and let the music do the rest.

Containment Presents: Makina Madness. CADZOW, MDDLTN, — When the rest of the city is winding down, World Headquarters is just getting started — from 11:00pm, Containment brings Makina Madness to one of Newcastle's most legendary underground venues, with CADZOW and MDDLTN leading the charge into hard, euphoric dancefloor territory. Makina is a genre that demands commitment and rewards it in spades, all thundering beats and melodic rushes that will keep you moving until the lights come up. Entry is £5–£12, which for a night of this energy is an absolute steal.