There’s something about Cullercoats Festival — it sneaks up on you like the first warm day of summer, then fills the air with music, colour, and that lovely feeling that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
It’s back this year, and we’re proud to announce we’ve won a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund: Awards for All. Things kick off in May and build up to the big weekend on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 June — a two-day celebration of creativity, connection and good old seaside joy.
Starting with tails, tiny art and big heart
Our theme this year is At the Water’s Edge featuring the brilliant Tiny Art Project — little A7 sized bursts of creativity that appear in shop windows, the Library, the Watch House and around the village. How many can you spot?
Ceilidhs, string quartets, and Saturday on the sand
The real buzz starts Friday 13 June — and yes, it’s lucky for us.
There’s a family-friendly Ceilidh with Phoenix Folk at 6pm at St George’s Hall, followed by one for the grown-ups at 8. If you fancy something a bit more mellow, a string quartet hosted by the brilliant Bradley Creswick will be playing at St George’s Church at 7pm.
Then comes Saturday 14 June, when Carol Malia opens the celebration at The Crescent Club & the whole village seems to join in. From beach yoga at 8am to swing dancing by mid-afternoon, it’s a full day of creativity and community — the kind of day you wish you could bottle.
Filling the village with music
This year’s line-up brings together local favourites and rising stars. Whether it’s choirs or toe-tapping bands there’s something for everyone from Bands on the brae starting with Spanish City Rollers (from 11 am) to the Cullercoats Primary School Choir at noon. Settle down in the afternoon to the Watch House Shanty Crew and Mariners and Marras, and then Hoodoo Blues round things off.
The Tyne Idols bus is with us all day with new talent giving their all – A budding new Sam Fender lands maybe?
Dancing and storytelling
There’s a full day of dance demos, tasters and performances, from capoeira and kizomba to belly dancing and salsa —join in the workshops at the Methodist Church. You can also try offers and tasters from CBK, Cullercoats Tennis Club and Martial Arts.
Over at the Crescent Club’s Buffet Room, Harry Gallagher opens our Poetry offer with his friendly & familiar style. Followed by Peter Mortimer lots more poetry throughout the day. Storytelling sessions for the little ones are happening at 11am and 1pm at Cullercoats Primary School.
And if you fancy ending the day with a chuckle, head to CBK HQ at 7pm for a Comedy Night. Why not?
Discover crafts and heritage
St George’s Church Hall will be buzzing with the return of the Artisan Pop-Up Market (10:30am–3pm). Lots of brilliant makers and artists all under one roof — ideal for summer gifts or a little treat for yourself.
Find out more about the maritime heritage of Cullercoats at The Watch House – and taste the famous cakes!
A labour of love, powered by people
Cullercoats Festival is made with love — by volunteers, for everyone. Every workshop, performance, and event exists because people give their time, ideas and energy.
There are still chances to sponsor, too — if you’re a local business or just someone who loves what the festival stands for, your support goes a long way (and it’ll get your name out there in the best way possible).
So come down. Bring your family. Say hi to someone you haven’t seen in ages. Dance a bit. Stay for a pint. Or a poem. Or both. We look forward seeing you!
See the full programme and get involved:
www.cullercoatsfestival.org
