New Annual is set to return to Newcastle this spring, with organisers unveiling the first taste of the 2026 program, including the return of SOAK at Newcastle Ocean Baths and a new immersive art party celebrating self-expression and community.
Running from 25 September to 4 October, the sixth edition of City of Newcastle’s flagship arts festival promises to once again transform the city’s coastline, streets and civic spaces into a vibrant playground for art, music and performance.
Following record-breaking attendances in 2025, anticipation is already building for what organisers say will be another standout year.
One of last year’s biggest success stories was SOAK, a series of free sunset music sessions that turned the Newcastle Ocean Baths into one of the city’s most unique live music venues.
The popular event will return in 2026 with a four-night program featuring a mix of local talent and internationally recognised artists, bringing live music back to the iconic oceanfront location.
Elsewhere, Newcastle’s creative spirit will take centre stage when popular nightspot Bartholomew’s is transformed into the home of TWISTED, an immersive art party inspired by the work of former Newcastle artist Damien Frost.
The one-night-only event will invite guests to embrace costume, performance and music while celebrating identity, creativity and connection.
The event coincides with Frost’s Night Flowers exhibition at Watt Space Gallery. The acclaimed photographer, who spent more than a decade documenting London’s alternative queer nightlife, will return to Newcastle to showcase his celebrated photographic series alongside a collection of new portraits featuring members of Newcastle’s own queer and alternative communities.
The exhibition explores themes of self-expression, belonging and chosen family, reflecting ideas shaped during Frost’s years living and creating in Newcastle.
New Annual runs from 25 September to 4 October. Entry to SOAK and the Night Flowers exhibition will be free, while tickets for TWISTED go on sale from 9am on Thursday, 4 June via the festival website. The full 2026 program will be announced in the coming months.
