Running from 2pm to 2am, this free, unticketed event will see seven diverse venues come alive with an eclectic mix of bands, solo artists, DJs, and roving performers.
Between gigs, Midtown’s streets will be buzzing with buskers, actors, circus performers, and pop-up acts, ensuring non-stop entertainment both inside and outside the venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full-throttle live bands, and from vinyl listening bars to DJ-powered drag spectaculars, this single-city-block festival is set to showcase the best of Newcastle’s thriving nightlife.
With food trucks and local hospitality venues keeping the energy high, the Midtown Newcastle Gig Trail is your invitation to explore, discover, and celebrate Newcastle’s music scene in an unforgettable, all-night experience.
It’s a whole festival in just a single city block!
As part of Great Southern Nights, Midtown Newcastle’s best-loved venues will each offer their own unique slice of live music magic. Across seven locations, audiences can expect everything from acoustic indie sets and electrifying rock bands to DJ-driven parties and vibrant drag performances.
Step into Bernie’s Bar, home to Newcastle’s drag and dance-floor divas, or lose yourself in the rich vinyl soundscapes of Mad Poet bar. Catch high-energy sets at The Rogue Scholar, sing your heart out at Jams Karaoke, or discover emerging talent at The Happy Wombat, The Koutetsu, and The Scholar’s Den. With each venue offering its own atmosphere, sound, and experience, this is the perfect chance to venue-hop, discover fresh talent, and immerse yourself in Newcastle’s music scene.
All gigs are free and unticketed to encourage patrons to stay in the district and hop venues.
Between 2pm and 2am Midtown will be hosting a whole troupe of performers, buskers, jokers, actors and generally vibes-boosters.
This rag-tag team will be performing in-venue and out of venues in a flurry of spontaneous fun and chaos. Catch impromptu acting, music, circus acts and other frivolity, activating the whole Midtown Block.
