Public Vote Open to Crown North East’s Best Event
23rd January 2026
An epic outdoor spectacular, a traditional county show and two magical festive experiences are hoping to come out on top at the glitzy ceremony in March. The Tourism Festival or Event category at the Destination North East England Tourism Awards is the only one to be decided by the public.
Event goers, visitors and locals alike are invited to have their say as four unforgettable events and experiences battle to be crowned best in the North East at the prestigious Destination North East England Tourism Awards.
After receiving a record number of entries, a panel of judges have whittled down the entries to a shortlist of four, with the final decision now in the hands of the thousands of visitors who flocked to the events last year.
Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, the Bishop Auckland based outdoor nighttime spectacular is hoping to repeat last year’s success after it took home the gong at the 2025 ceremony, receiving thousands of votes from its loyal supporters. Hot on their heels (or hooves as the case may be) is the Northumberland County Show, who also made the shortlist last year. They’re joined by two new, festive entrants, with Santa Claus themed experiences at the Old Gaol in Hexham and at Newcastle’s Life Science Centre hoping a little post-Christmas magic might help them clinch the prize.
The online voting portal is open now until Friday 6th February 2026 at 5pm.
The category returns having been introduced last year alongside two other new categories designed to better reflect the diversity of the North East’s visitor economy. The region has become a hotspot for events, festivals and live experiences with the North East in 2025 playing host to everything from record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup crowds in Sunderland to the world-premiere of a brand new version of timeless musical Miss Saigon in Newcastle. Recent figures revealed the impact of large-scale events like the Mercury Prize’s first edition outside of London, which hosted at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena in the autumn. The prestigious ceremony which saw hometown hero Sam Fender clinch victory is estimated to have generated £1.4 million for the region’s economy.
Celebrating events in the region, North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness said:
“Our region is rich with brilliant events that showcase our creativity and put our region on the national and international stage.
“Only one of these events will be crowned the best, but they should all be celebrated as they have each created memorable moments for our communities. I’m excited that 2026 brings another packed calendar of big events which means more visitors, a boost to our economy and opportunities for local people.”
Unlike the other 17 categories which award bronze, silver and gold winners through a mix of judging panel assessments and mystery shopping visits, the Festival and Event category will crown one overall winner. They’ll be revealed at a glamourous ceremony in March at Newcastle’s Civic Centre, hosted by broadcaster and regional advocate Charlie Charlton.
The awards, now in their 24th year are organised by Destination North East England, the regional partnership between NewcastleGateshead Initiative, Visit Northumberland, Visit County Durham and all seven local authorities. Destination North East England is led by NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of the region, to unlock the growth potential of the visitor economy.
John Marshall, Chair of Destination North East England congratulating the finalists said:
“We have set ourselves the ambitious task of doubling the number of visitors who venture here to experience all that North East England has to offer. Events like those shortlisted here are crucial to achieving this growth. They offer travellers a unique opportunity to be immersed in our culture and communities, providing a tantalising reason to visit and explore.
“It’s great that the public will once again have the opportunity to rally behind their favourite event and show their support for an industry that plays such an integral part in our region’s success story.”