In Events

Immerse yourself in the joy of community gatherings and discover the rich tapestry of events that make Durham a festival destination like no other. From cultural celebrations to music extravaganzas, Durham's festival scene has an event for everyone to enjoy. We have picked a few highlights below…

Fire and Ice Festival  

Experience the magic of Fire and Ice in Durham City from 28 February to 1 March. The festival will be a spectacular winter event transforming the city centre into a captivating wonderland. Stunning ice sculptures, carved by world-class artists, are displayed throughout the streets. This family-friendly event offers interactive installations, live entertainment, and themed displays inspired by the elements of fire and ice.

S&DR200 Festival

The S&DR200 Festival will start on 1 March and will be a nine-month international festival taking place across Durham and Tees Valley. The festival is inspired by the first journey on the Stockton & Darlington Railway (S&DR) which gave birth to the modern railway, and will include a-once-in-a lifetime steam train journey, innovative exhibitions, visual arts and large-scale outdoor spectacles. The festival will also include the S&DR200 Fringe Festival that will showcase a series of walks by the Friends of S&DR, cycle tours by the Institute of Civil Engineers, and other events made possible through the Community Grant Scheme and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Bishop Auckland Food Festival

The Bishop Auckland Food Festival will return to the Culture County on 12-13 April. With a fantastic range of over 140 delicious street food traders and artisan food producers, bars with real ales, pop up cafes and attractions for all, the festival will be a great day out!  Across the weekend there will also be incredible celebrity chef demonstrations.

Durham Fringe Festival

The 2025 Durham Fringe Festival will run from 23-27 July, and is the North East's biggest recognised fringe festival featuring the best in dance, drama, magic, music, poetry, stand-up comedy and more. Across seven city centre venues there will be a celebration of the arts like no other, bringing together the best regional talent, alongside phenomenal acts from across the UK and around the world.

Durham Brass Festival 

The streets of Durham City will resonate with the sound of live music as the Durham Brass Festival returns in 2025. The festival brings the party to outdoor spaces across Durham, with performances from world-class musicians, international street bands and much more.

Durham Book Festival

The Durham Book Festival returns in 2025, with the dates to be announced soon. The festival will see Durham host an illustrious array of literary figures, with more than 35 events, the festival offers a diverse selection of history, politics, humour, poetry, philosophy, and fiction.

Seaham Food Festival 

Seaham Food Festival will return on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 August. The festival welcomes thousands of visitors each year for two days of sun, sea, family fun and, of course, food.  It features more than 120 traders selling everything from street food to local beverages. Another highlight of Seaham Food Festival is its cookery theatre, where it hosts a series of cookery demonstrations from a star-studded line up of celebrity chefs.

Hardwick Festival

Hardwick Festival returns on 15-17 August for its 11th year. The iconic festival is a three-day festival you don't want to miss, attracting visitors from all over the UK. With multiple stages and a lineup featuring both international headliners and rising stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Dark Skies Festival 

Durham Dales and North Pennines National Landscape have some of the UK's darkest skies, making Durham the perfect place to enjoy a stargazing break. The winter months are peak stargazing season with the chance for crystal clear skies, though there are events all year long. Discover more about Durham’s dark skies and mark your calendar for the North Pennines Stargazing Festival in October 2025.


Durham Christmas Festival

Enjoy Christmas shopping and entertainment across Durham City Centre as the Durham Christmas Festival returns in 2025. Where you can explore fabulous markets, the Craft & Producers' Marquee on Palace Green, and a Festive Outdoor Market in Durham Marketplace with festive music, special events, seasonal storytelling, and Carols for all in the Cathedral.

Also stay tuned for a magical November as Lumiere is set to return to Durham in 2025! Featuring stunning installations by local and international artists, making the event a must-see for all ages.

There are plenty more festivals to discover in 2025 across the Culture County. Why not make it part of a great getaway to Durham. 

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