What's On

Please note: All events are subject to change. We strongly advise you to contact the event to check age suitability, date, time and cost BEFORE you go to avoid disappointment or inconvenience. Please note that not all events are free.

Regular events are listed at the bottom of this page.

March - July 2010

w/c 22nd Feb	Jo Jingles and his 'jinglers' will be wearing red in aid of the British Heart Foundation's 'Wear Red' week. Come along and sing, dance, keep fit - for fun! Advance booking essential, call Helen on 07859 105159, e-mail helenjojingles@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.jojingles.com/newcastleupontyne
Now until 7th Mar	Zing An exciting art exhibition from the pupils of Thomas Bewick School at the Fusion Gallery, Customs House, South Shields. Take a sensory journey along the coastal, woodland and urban environment, discover how new life can be given to found and discarded objects. t: 0191 427 8199
Now until Wed 31st Mar	Lucky Spot, Belsay Hall, Northumberland. Follow the trail through the gardens to find Stella McCartney's enchanting crystal horse installation in the castle. Admission charge applies. www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay t: 01661 881636
Now until 3rd May	BBC Walking with Dinosaurs Exhibition Woodhorn Museum, Ashington. Behind the scenes secrets of the TV series, special effects, life sized dinosaur replicas, real fossils and casts. Special events and fun family activites. Admission fee applies. t: 01670 528 080 www.experiencewoodhorn.com
Now until Sat 16th May	Space Age: Exploration, Design and Popular Culture South Shields Museum and Art Gallery. The exhibition explores our fascination with space and how it has inspired popular culture from comics and toys to films and merchandising. FREE. t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Mon 1st Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Blyth Library. 12-2pm t: 0191 477 6100
Tue 2nd Mar	Pre-school Day (My Body) Centre for Life, Newcastle. Featuring Piccolo Music, mini beasts, toddler disco and water tables. Adults £5, under 4's FREE. No booking required. See www.life.org.uk or t: 0191 243 8210
Thu 4th Mar	World Book Day! See www.worldbookday.com or ask at your local library for more info.
Thu 4th Mar	Bookstart Bookcrawl Launch 10am at Outer West Library (t: 0191 277 7970) and Fenham Library (t: 0191 277 4270). Calling all 0-6 year olds to help us celebrate world book day by launching Bookstart Bookcrawl 2010! Borrow a book and receive a sticker, when you get 4 stickers receive a fun certificate!
Sat 6th Mar	Dirty Bertie! Seven Stories, Newcastle. Meet the author David Roberts as he introduces you to his hilarious, best selling picture books. Followed by a book signing. Admission fee applies. Booking essential. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 6th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Cramlington Manor Walks Shopping Centre 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 6th Mar	NCT Nearly New Sale Fulwell Methodist Church, Dovedale Road, Sunderland, 10.30pm-12noon. www.nct.org.uk
Sat 6th Mar	Bug Box Making Workshop Alnwick Garden. Look after the wildlife in your garden by making an eco-friendly bug box to take home. Drop in 11am-3pm. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 852 or e: info@alnwickgarden.com
Sat 6th & Sun 7th Mar	Alice in Wonderland Weekend for all the family, Seven Stories, Newcastle. Follow the white rabbit to a Mad Hatter storytime at 11.30am or 2pm, get crafty in the Creation Station, plus don't be late for two very special performances! Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715
Sun 7th Mar	NCT Nearly New Sale The Linskill Centre, North Shields, 10am-12noon www.nct.org.uk
Tue 9th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Whitehaven Library 12-2pm t: 0191 477 6100
Wed 10th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Durham Clayport Library 12-2pm t: 0191 477 6100
Wed 10th - Sun 14th Mar	South Tyneside International Magic Festival The Customs House, South Shields. Be prepared to be mesmerised by some of the finest magicians from around the world. Family Magic Extravaganza on Wednesday. To book t: 0191 454 1234 or visit www.customshouse.co.uk
Fri 12th - Sun 21st Mar	Newcastle Science Festival Venues and events across Newcastle. For more information t: 0191 243 8232 or visit www.newcastlesciencefest.com
Fri 12th Mar	Super Hoola! Newcastle Science Festival Public Launch Event, Grey's Monument, Newcastle, lunchtime. Free. Find out how basic physics can make you a better hula hooper and join in the fun. Hoops supplied! See www.newcastlesciencefest.com for more information.
Sat 13th Mar	Living Waterways Celebration Event run by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust. Free family fun event celebrating city streams and the Jesmond Community Festival. Contact Jess t: 0191 284 6884 for more information and exact location.
Sat 13th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Crown Central Library, Darlington. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 13th - Sun 14th Mar	Alice in Wonderland Weekend Seven Stories, Newcastle. Follow the white rabbit to a Mad Hatter storytime at 11.30am or 2pm, get crafty in the Creation Station, plus don't be late for two very special performances! Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 13th - Sun 14th Mar	Mothers Day Gift Making Workshops Alnwick Garden. Make a lasting gift by learning how to pot up herbs in the Roots and Shoots garden, and use herbs from The Garden to create a botanical bath bomb. Drop in 11am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies. t: 01665 511 350 www.alnwickgarden.com
Sun 14th Mar	Alan in Wonderland and the Three Goats Plus Seven Stories, Newcastle. 11am and 2pm. Storytales with a slice of Alice in Wonderland! Booking essential, £3 per person in addition to admission fee. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sun 14th Mar	Winds & Whirligigs Bill Quay Farm, Gateshead. 1-3pm. All ages. Make and decorate a spinner! Places limited, book in advance. t: 0191 433 5780
Sun 14th Mar	Mother's Day Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth. Free entry for Mums accompanied by their children. For more info t: 01670 789 998 or 01670 789 571 or e: whitehousefarmcentre@tiscali.co.uk
Sun 14th Mar	Bird Box & Feeder Making Swalwell Visitor Centre, Hexham Road, Swalwell 1-3pm. Family event with the Countryside Rangers, £3 per box/feeder. No booking required.
Sun 14th Mar	Mother's Day Weardale Railway, Stanhope. Mum's ride free today! Children can visit the waiting room to make their Mum a special card. t: 01388 526 203
Sun 14th Mar	Mothering Sunday Bede's World, Jarrow. Make a decorated 'plant a flower seed kit' for your Mum. Mum's enjoy free admission! t: 0191 489 2106 www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sun 14th Mar	Mother's Day Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. Celebrate Mother's Day and come along to Blue Reef and find out all about fishy mums! Normal admission applies. t: 0191 258 1031
Tue 16th - Wed 17th Mar	Disney Live - Three Classic Fairy Tales The Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle. Tickets from £13. See www.metroradioarena.co.uk or t: 0844 493 6666
Wed 17th - Sat 20th Mar	The Sleeping Beauty Birmingham Royal Ballet Sunderland Empire. The classical fairy tale set to score by Tchaikovsky. To book t: 0844 847 2499 or visit www.sunderlandempire.org.uk
Fri 19th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Gateshead Library 12-2pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 19th Mar	NCT Nearly New Sale Heaton Community Centre, Trewitt Road, off Chillingham Road, Heaton. 8-9pm. Maternity to teen clothing and toys etc. Everything at this sale £1. Contact tmarson123@hotmail.com for more information.
Sat 20th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Cornmill Shopping Centre. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 20th Mar	NCT Nearly New Baby Only Sale Heaton Community Centre, Trewitt Road, off Chillingham Road, Heaton. 2-4pm. Maternity and first year clothing, equipment and toys. Contact tmarson123@hotmail.com for more information.
Sat 20th Mar	Shake Rattle and Sing! at Piccolo's Birthday Party Show Stage 2, Northern Stage, Barass Bridge Newcastle, with songs from Gold Award winning CD by Piccolo Music. 1.15pm and 3.30pm. Ticket £5 per baby/child, £7 per adult from Northern Stage (0191 2305151) or Piccolo (0191 2528765)
Sat 20th Mar	Splatterday! Kielder Castle 1pm-4.30pm. All ages, £5 per ticket places limited, book early. Face painting, colour hunt, fancy head dress parade and help create a splat-tastic canvas of colour! Also Bollywood dance workshops and make Indian art decorations. Dress for mess! t: 01434 220 242 www.forestry.gov.uk
Sat 20th Mar	Kielder Lantern Parade Kielder Water & Forest Park. Join in this large-scale, lantern lit procession through Kielder Forest. Also a range of free workshops and activities through the day. For more information t: 01434 250 457 or visit www.visitkielder.com
Sat 20th Mar	Creature Features (part of Science Festival) Great North Museum Hancock 11am-3.30pm. Meet live animals such as lizards and snakes. Tickets are free, available from the shop on the day. t: 0191 222 6765 www.twmuseums.org.uk/greatnorthmuseum
Sat 20th Mar	Rockpool Ramble (part of Science Festival) Dove Marine Laboratory, Cullercoats, 10.30am-12.30pm. Explore the shore safari-style and splodge through the rockpools! FREE, booking essential. www.newcastlesciencefest.com
Sat 20th Mar	Kids Film Club (part of Science Festival) Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle, 12noon. Includes a screening of Meet the Robinsons (U). After the film there will be a workshop to make something from the movie. Limited capacity, tickets available on the day £3.80 adults, £2.80 kids. t: 0845 217 9909
Sat 20th Mar	Bubbles, Balloons & Jelly Babies! (part of Science Festival) Life Science Centre, Newcastle, 10am-6pm. A family party to celebrate the Science Festivals closing weekend. Can you make square bubbles or turn a balloon into a helicopter? Ages 4 and under. Tickets £3.95. www.life.org.uk
Sat 20th - Sun 21st Mar	Dye Another Day! (Part of Science Week) Discover how the Anglo-Saxons dyed their clothes. Make your own handicraft to take home. Admission applies. t: 0191 489 2106 www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sun 21st Mar	Horrible Science with Nick Arnold Seven Stories, Newcastle. Meet Horrible Science author, Nick Arnold and prepare for a weird and wonderful look at the world of science. Normal admission applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Tue 23rd Mar	Campfire Cooking Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 11am-1pm. Join staff in the Celtic village, prepare and cook soup over an open fire and enjoy an informal get together. Costs £1.50 children must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241
Wed 24th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Carlisle Library 12-2pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 26th - Sun 28th Mar	Open University Drop-In Event Living North Live Fair. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 27th Mar	Early Years Goes Jazzy! The Sage, Gateshead. With guest jazz musicians to create a fun experience for young children. Under 5's 10-11am (£3 per person) and 5-7 years 11.30am-1pm (£4 per person). t: 0191 443 4661 www.thesagegateshead.org
Sat 27th - Sun 28th Mar	How to Train Your Dragon Weekend Seven Stories, Newcastle. Celebrating the release of the film with a weekend of firebreathing fun! Storytimes at 11.30am & 2pm, craft activities and specialist animation workshops. Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 27th - Sun 28th Mar	Make Stuff at Souter Souter Lighthouse. 11am-4pm. FREE but normal admission applies. t: 0191 529 3161
Sun 28th Mar	Easter Card Making Thornley Woods Centre 10am-3.30pm, 20p per card. All ages. No booking required, just turn up. t: 01207 545 212
Sat 28th Mar	NCT Nearly New Sale Durham Independent School, Quarry Heads Lane. 2-4pm. www.nct.org.uk
Fri 2nd Apr	Baltic Allotment The Baltic, Gateshead, 11am-4pm. Help to create flowers, vegetables and plants for the Baltic allotment using a variety of art materials with artist led activities. Suitable for children 13 years and under, all children must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required. FREE www.balticmill.com
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Where's Wally Easter Egg Hunt Seven Stories, Newcastle. Search for hidden tasty treats with our own Wally and Wenda, but with 7 floors will you find them all? Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Hop into Easter Killhope, Cowshill, Durham. Bring the whole family, easter egg trails and quiz trails, 50p. Explore the site and the woodland. t: 01388 537505 or see www.killhope.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Bunny Hunt Weardale Railway, Stanhope, Durham. t: 01388 526 203 or see www.weardale-railway.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter at Gibside 11am-4pm. A fun-filled family event with Easter egg trail, Mouse House building and other fantastic fun events. £2 per trail. Normal admission applies. t: 01207 541 820 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Eggstravaganza Wallington. Enjoy Easter fun with a fantastic children's trail, craft activities, games and races. £2 per trail. Join Krafty Kids on Sat 3rd & Sun 4th Apr to make Easter items. Normal admission applies. t: 01670 773 600 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Eggstravaganza Tanfield Railway, Sunniside. A free chocolate Easter egg for every child passenger. Saturday is a diesel day. Normal admission applies. t: 0845 463 4836 or e: info@tanfield-railway.co.uk
Fri 2nd - 18th Apr	Easter Eggstravaganza Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth. For more info t: 01670 789998 or 01670 789571 or e: whitehousefarmcentre@tiscali.co.uk
Fri 2nd - Sun 18th Apr	Walker Picturebook Party! Seven Stories, Newcastle, 11.30am & 2pm. For the under 5's. Celebrate Walker Books 30th birthday, join in with stories, games and meet the famous Walker bear! Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Fri 2nd - Sun 18th Apr	Predators Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. Discover the amazing techniques different species have evolved to catch their prey and come face to face with the oceans' ultimate predators - the sharks! Admission fee applies. t: 0191 258 1031 or e: tynemouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk
Sat 3rd Apr	Egg-citing Easter Cards Discovery Museum, Newcastle.10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. Work with artist Angelina Charnley to create some colourful Easter cards. t: 0191 232 6789
Sat 3rd Apr	Brimham Rocks Easter Trail Summerbridge, North Yorkshire. Follow a trail of questions and clues which will lead you to your Easter prize. Start from car park. £2 per trail. t: 01423 780 688 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sat 3rd - Sun 4th Apr	Easter Card Fun Bill Quay Farm, Gateshead. 1pm. No booking required, just turn up, £1 Family event. t: 0191 433 5780
Sat 3rd - Sun 4th Apr	Easter at Cragside Celebrate Easter with our family trail. Find all the wooden eggs for a chocolate reward. £2.50 per trail. Normal admission applies. t: 01669 620 333 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sat 3rd - Sun 4th Apr	Spring Surprise Busy B's Baltic, Gateshead, 2-4pm. Create a beautiful gift to take away at the Spring Surprise Busy B's family workshop, using the art materials provided. FREE, no pre-booking required. Suitable for children under 13 with their families, children must be accompanied by an adult. www.balticmill.com
Sat 3rd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Family Fun Bede's World, Jarrow. Easter inspired craft activities, 10am-5pm (12pm-5pm Sunday). Normal admission charges apply. t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sat 3rd - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Olympics and Trail Beningbrough Hall and Gardens, North Yorkshire. Three days of egg'cellent fun for all the family with Egg Olympics and Easter trail in the gardens. £2 per trail. Normal admission applies. t: 01904 472 027 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sat 3rd - Thu 8th Apr	Easter Activities Souter Lighthouse. Follow a special Easter Egg trail (Easter Day and Easter Monday) and enjoy some fun craft activities. 11am-4pm. Free but normal admission applies. t: 0191 529 3161
Sat 3rd - Sun 18th Apr	Easter Activities Gateshead Hertitage at St Mary's, 10am-3.30pm everyday (closed Mon 5th & Mon 12th Apr). Free activities include making hand print lambs and bunny masks, chick trail and tile painting (£1.50 per tile). t: 0191 433 4699 for more information.
Sat 3rd - Sun 18th Apr	Fluffy Feathered Friends Bede's World. Make your own feathered chick or duckling mobile to take home and join Bede's Worlds' egg-cellent Easter Egg trail! 11am-3pm. (Museum closed Good Friday) Normal admission charges apply. t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sat 3rd - Sun 18th Apr	Easter Craft and Storytimes at all Newcastle Libraries. Fun, crafts, stories and much more! For more info t: 0191 277 4100 or see http://community.newcastle.gov.uk/libraries/
Sun 4th Apr	Easter Eggstravaganza! Plessey Woods Country Park, Northumberland, starts 10.30am and ends at 12.30pm. Family event, all ages. Egg decorating, hunt the egg, boolin, and three legged egg and spoon race. All the traditional Easter treats. Event costs £2.50 t: 01670 824 793 for more information or to book.
Sun 4th - Mon 5th Apr	Feed the Easter Lambs Malham Tarn Estate, Yorkshire Dales. Feed the lambs in Town Head Barn - feeding time every half hour. With Easter trail around Malham Cove. £1.50 per trail. t: 01729 830 416 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sun 4th - Mon 5th Apr	Easter Egg-citement Bede's World, Jarrow. Includes Easter egg trail, animal balloon modeling, face painting and story telling. Admission applies. t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Mon 5th Apr	Meet a Gladiator and Make a Helmet, Segedunum Roman Fort,10.30am-3.30pm t: 0191 236 9347
Mon 5th Apr	See our Engines on Show Stephenson Railway Museum, North Shields, 11am-3pm. See engines from our workshop on display, make a model engine and take a ride on a diesel train! Charges apply for train rides. www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephenson t: 0191 200 7146
Mon 5th - Sun 18th Apr	Baltic Allotment Baltic, Gateshead, 2-4pm. Help to create flowers, vegetables and plants for the Baltic allotment using a variety of art materials with artist led activities. Suitable for children 13 years and under, all children must be accompanied by an adult, no booking required. FREE. www.balticmill.com
Tue 6th Apr	Junk Modelling Discovery Museum, Newcastle, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. Create boats and ships from junk material! Bring along your own junk or use ours. t: 0191 232 6789
Tue 6th Apr	Eggsplore! More. Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle, 11am, 11.45am, 1pm, 1.45pm and 2.30pm. Exclusive hands-on look at some of the museum's eggs and baby animals, then follow the baby trail. Free tickets available on the day from the first floor shop on a first come first served basis. t: 0191 222 6765
Tue 6th Apr	Make A Mini Soldier Arbeia Roman Fort, South Shields, 10am-12noon and 1-3pm. Create your own cardboard Roman soldier. t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Tue 6th Apr	Art Cart Fun Hatton Gallery, Newcastle University, 1.30pm-3pm. Come along and try our Art Cart which has fun activities for children to use in the gallery. t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Tue 6th Apr	Drawing Shipley Art Gallery, Gateshead, 10am-12noon and 1-3pm. Learn how to make life size and life like portraits with artist Deirdre McCrimmon. t: 0191 477 1495 www.twmuseums.org.uk/shipley
Tue 6th Apr	Make a Mini Masterpiece Monkwearmouth Station, Sunderland, 11am-12noon and 1-3pm. Look at work from Sunderland Art Club and make your own mini masterpiece to take home. t: 0191 567 7075
Wed 7th Apr	Make an Engine Driver's Cap Stephenson Railway Museum, North Shields, 11am-3pm. Create a driver's hat and take a ride on a diesel train. Charges apply for train rides. t: 0191 200 7146
Wed 7th Apr	Funky Junky Sounds Hatton Gallery, Newcastle University, 12.30am-12noon. Make fun musical instruments from junk and listen to sounds in the AV exhibition. t: 0191 222 6059
Wed 7th Apr	Clay Modelling - Foods from China Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, 11am, 1pm and 2pm. Make food dishes from clay to create a feast for the afterlife. Collect a free ticket from the museum reception at 10am. t: 0191 553 2323 www.twmuseums.org.uk/sunderland
Wed 7th Apr	Easter Bunny Hunt Monkwearmouth Station Museum, Sunderland, 11am-3pm. t: 0191 567 7075
Wed 7th - Sun 11th Apr	The Wizard of Oz The Journal Tyne Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets from £15. See www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk or t: 0844 493 9999
Thu 8th Apr	Spring Walk around the Park and Farm Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm. Walk with the warden and watch nature waking up! See the baby animals at the Farm. Costs £1.50 children must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241
Thu 8th Apr	Easter Duck Race Plessey Woods Country Park, Northumberland, starts at 13.30 and ends at 3pm. Family event, all ages. Cheer on your chosen duck over the rapids and rock shelves of the River Blyth. Event will last about 90 mins. Charge to attend this event, £1 t: 01670 824 793
Thu 8th Apr	Red Squirrel Family Fun Day Wallington Hall, Northumberland. Join the Save Our Squirrels team for a guided squirrel safari through the woods, arts and crafts activities, lots of info and other fun activities from 10am-3pm. Free but admission to Wallington Hall applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Thu 8th Apr	Easter Trails with Northumberland Wildlife Trust in Jesmond Dene. Drop in and follow the Easter themed trails and see if you can win a prize, 1-3pm. £2.50 per child or free to NWT members. t: 0191 284 6884 for exact location and for more information.
Thu 8th Apr	Craft Activities South Shields Museum & Art Gallery. Let the kids explore their creative side at this fun event. 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. FREE t: 0191 456 8740
Thu 8th Apr	Victorian Day Discovery Museum, Newcastle, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. Follow our Victorian trail and make a traditional decoupage picture to take home. t: 0191 232 6789
Thu 8th Apr	Make a Shooting Star South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, 10am-12noon and 1-3pm. Visit the Space Age exhibition and make your own shooting star to take home. t: 0191 456 8740
Thu 8th Apr	Fabulous Photo Frames Monkwearmouth Station Museum, Sunderland, 11am-12noon and 1-3pm. Make a fabulous frame and take part in our frame game. t: 0191 567 7075
Thu 8th Apr	Make your own Mythical Beast Segedunum Roman Fort, Wallsend, 10am-3pm. Create a mythical beast. t: 0191 236 9347 www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum
Thu 8th Apr	Spring Life Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle, 11am-3pm. Make an Easter hat, a paper posy or a family of bead baby animals. t: 0191 222 6765
Thu 8th Apr	Art Cart Fun Hatton Gallery, 1.30pm-3.00pm. Come along and try our Art Cart which has fun art activities for children to use in the gallery. t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Thu 8th Apr	Tea Ceremony and Trails Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, 11am-3pm. Follow the symbolism trail of plants and animals in China. See a traditional tea ceremony and taste different teas. Tea tasting at 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm. t: 0191 553 2323 www.twmuseums.org.uk/sunderland
Sat 10th Apr	Junk Sounds Hatton Gallery, 10.30am-12noon. Make fun musical instruments from junk. Listen to the sounds in the AV exhibition. t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Sat 10th Apr	Make a Giant Maisy Illustration Seven Stories, Newcastle. Help us create a giant Maisy painting! Old clothes and shoes recommended! Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Apr	Maisy Weekend Seven Stories, Newcastle. Celebrate the 20th birthday of Maisy, prepare for craft activities, Maisy picturebook parties and the chance to meet Maisy herself at 10am, 12pm & 2.45pm. Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Apr	Saltwell Park Show Saltwell Park, Gateshead 10am-4pm. Family event. Spring celebrations, horticultural societies, model boats, animals from Bill Quay Farm, street theatre, childrens workshops. Free park and ride from Gateshead Civic Centre every 15 minutes. t: 0191 433 6900
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Apr	Postman Pat 'Special Delivery Service' Whitley Bay Playhouse. Tickets from £10. See www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or t: 0844 277 2771
Sat 10th - Sun 11th Apr	Baby Animals Bede's World, Jarrow. Be the first to meet the latest arrivals at the farm. Sat 11am & 2.30pm and Sun 1pm & 2.30pm. Normal admission charges apply. t: 0191 489 2106
Mon 12th Apr	Spring Collage Hatton Gallery, 10.30am-12noon. Create a colourful collage based on the colours and images of Spring t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Mon 12th Apr	Spring Life Great North Museum: Hancock, 11am-3pm. Celebrate the arrival of spring - make an Easter hat decorated with bunnies, bugs and butterflies, a paper posy of spring flowers or a family of bead baby animals. t: 0191 222 6765 www.twmuseums.org.uk/greatnorthmuseum
Mon 12th Apr	Eggsplore! More Great North Museum: Hancock, 11am, 11.45am, 1pm, 1.45pm & 2.30pm. 'Hands-on' look at some of the Museum's eggs and baby animals. Continue your springtime adventure with our 'Baby Trail'. Free tickets are available on the day from the first floor shop. First come, first served. t: 0191 222 6765
Mon 12th - Fri 16th Apr	Spring into Spring Thornley Woods Centre, 10am-2pm (drop in anytime). Pick up a seasonal activity pack to carry out in the woods and make something to take home. Family event, £1. No booking required, just turn up. t: 01207 545 212
Tue 13th Apr	Minibeast Safari with Northumberland Wildlife Trust in Jesmond Dene. Drop in for one of our two sessions and discover more about the creepy crawlies beneath your feet, 1-3pm. £2.50 per child or free to NWT members. t: 0191 284 6884 for exact location and for more information.
Tue 13th Apr	Stained Glass Pictures Discovery Museum, 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm. Be inspired by Discovery Museum and make your own transparent picture to hang on your window. t: 0191 232 6789
Tue 13th Apr	Roman mobiles Arbeia Roman Fort, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Create a Roman themed room decoration to take home! t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Tue 13th Apr	Let's go fly a kite with Lip Lee, Segedunum Roman Fort, 10am-3pm. Mosaic a kite and then fly it at the fort. t: 0191 236 9347 www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum
Tue 13th Apr	Fluttering Flags Hatton Gallery, 10.30am-12noon. Make your own colourful mini flags based on the AV exhibition. t: 0191 222 6059 www.twmuseums.org.uk/hatton
Tue 13th Apr	Young Quilter's Day Shipley Art Gallery, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Make quilted portraits in fabric of yourself, your family or friends. The Quilters Guild will be here to help you. t: 0191 477 1495
Tue 13th Apr	Spring Flower Planting Monkwearmouth Station Museum, 11am-12noon & 1-3pm. Plant a flower seed and make a multicoloured flower. t: 0191 567 7075 www.twmuseums.org.uk/monkwearmouth
Tue 13th Apr	An Audience with the Chuckle Brothers The Journal Tyne Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets from £12.50. See www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk or t: 0844 493 9999
Tue 13th Apr	Craft Activities Arbeia Roman Fort, South Shields. 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm. FREE t: 0191 456 1369 www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia
Tue 13th - Sat 17th Apr	Charlie & Lola's Best Bestest Play Northern Stage, Newcastle. Tickets from £8.50 see www.northernstage.co.uk or t: 0191 230 5151
Wed 14th Apr	Creative Recycling Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm. Work alongside an artist and explore, create and re-invent using reclaimed and natural materials. £2.50 per child who must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241 www.northtyneside.gov.uk
Wed 14th Apr	Red Squirrel Family Fun Day Bolam Lake, Northumberland. Join the Save Our Squirrels team for a guided squirrel safari through the woods, arts and crafts activities, lots of info and other fun activities from 11am-3pm. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Wed 14th Apr	Springtime Tales at the Fort Segedunum Roman Fort, 10am-3pm. Join our storyteller to hear tales through the ages. t: 0191 236 9347 www.twmuseums.org.uk/segedunum
Wed 14th Apr	Create a Wildlife Mask Stephenson Railway Museum, 11am-3pm. Celebrate the wildlife of the waggonways. Make an animal mask and take our bunny trail challenge! t: 0191 200 7146
Wed 14th Apr	Chinese Games Galore Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, 11am-3pm. Find out about popular sports and games in China with a day of demonstrations and have-a-go activities. Make a kite, try kung fu, table tennis and Chinese chess. t: 0191 553 2323 www.twmuseums.org.uk/sunderland
Wed 14th Apr	Bob, the Man on the Moon with Simon Bartram award winning author at South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, 1pm-2pm. Bob is the Man on the Moon, and he'll be the first to tell you that there's NO SUCH THING AS ALIENS... or is there?! t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Thu 15th Apr	Minibeast Makeover! Saltwell Park Training Centre, Gateshead, 12noon-2pm. £2, limited places, book in advance. Suitable for under 6's. Make a minibeast costume to dress up in and a model to take away. t: 0191 433 5918
Thu 15th Apr	Woodland Planting Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10.30am-12noon or 1.30-3pm. Come along with your children to help plant young plants and sow seeds in the woodland. No booking required, free. t: 0191 643 2241
Thu 15th Apr	Who's Been Sitting in my Chair by Freehand Theatre, Middlesbrough Town Hall, 1pm. A delightful play for children aged 3-7 years. Tickets from £4 booked in advance. www.freehandtheatre.co.uk or t: 01642 815181
Thu 15th Apr	Craft Activities South Shields Museum & Art Gallery. Let the kids explore their creative side at this fun event. 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. FREE t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Thu 15th Apr	Bird Masks Discovery Museum, 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm. Explore wildlife on the River Tyne in our Story of the Tyne Gallery and make a bird mask to take home. t: 0191 232 6789
Thu 15th Apr	Martian mural South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Design alien life forms, rockets and stars to add to a space themed mural. t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Thu 15th Apr	Photography Shipley Art Gallery, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Make a pinhole camera and create your own photographic portrait. Formal or casual, dressed up or down, arrange your family and friends for group photographic portraits you can take home. t: 0191 477 1495
Thu 15th Apr	Cheeky Chick Challenge Monkwearmouth Station Museum, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Make a fluffy chick badge, hunt down the chicks in the museum and try our chick trail. t: 0191 567 7075
Fri 16th Apr	Chinese Opera Masks Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, 11am, 1pm & 2pm. Make Chinese opera masks and listen to Chinese opera music. Collect your free tickets from museum reception at 10am.
Fri 16th Apr	Treasure Trail Thornley Woods Centre, drop in between 1-2.45pm. Family event £2, no booking required, just turn up. Follow the clues, complete the trail and win a prize. t: 01207 545212
Sat 17th Apr	Open University Drop-In Event Newcastle City Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 17th - Sun 18th Apr	Flanimals! Weekend Seven Stories, Newcastle. Delightful and disgusting fun, with craft activities, monster themed picturebook parties! Plus meet a real Flanimal at 10am, 12pm & 2.45pm. Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 17th - Sun 18th Apr	Make a giant Flanimal Seven Stories, Newcastle. Drop into the Creation Station and use colourful collage and paints to recreate your favorite Flanimal. Old clothes recommended! Admission fee applies. t: 0845 271 0777 ext 715 www.sevenstories.org.uk
Sat 17th - Sun 18th Apr	Make Stuff at Souter Souter Lighthouse. 11am-4pm. Free but normal admission applies. t: 0191 529 3161
Sat 17th Apr	Bridge Building Discovery Museum, 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm. Join artist Lynsey Rollins to design and build a bridge! Decorate your creation and see how much weight it can hold t: 0191 232 6789
Sat 17th Apr	Krafty Kids Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, 1pm-3pm. Crafty fun for all the family.
Tue 20th Apr	Messy Monkeys introduce messy play sessions to the coast! Sessions for children 3 months to 3 years. Squelch, gloop, splash, splodge and paint! Please see www.messy-monkeys.com for venues and times.
Sat 24th - Sun 25th Apr	Seussical the Musical The Customs House, South Shields. Join the mischievious Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, GertrudeMcFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all the Who's of Whoville for this magical, musical extravaganza. To book t: 0191 454 1234 or visit www.customshouse.co.uk
Sat 24th - Sun 25th Apr	Make Stuff at Souter Souter Lighthouse. 11am-4pm. Free but normal admission applies. t: 0191 529 3161
Sat 1st - Mon 3rd May	Claws Weekend Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. From comical hermit crabs and 'fashion-conscious' decorator crabs to giant lobsters and the mighty king crab this exciting feature offers a fascinating insight into the incredible world of crustaceans. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 258 1031
Sat 1st - Mon 3rd May	Teddy Bears Picnic Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth. For more info t: 01670 789 998 or 01670 789 571 or e: whitehousefarmcentre@tiscali.co.uk
Sun 2nd - Mon 3rd May	Friendly Engines of Locoland Tanfield Railway, Sunniside. The friendly engines of Locoland visit this weekend. Normal admission applies. t: 0845 463 4836 or e: info@tanfield-railway.co.uk
Tue 4th May	Pre-school Day (Growing) The Centre for Life, Newcastle. Featuring Piccolo Music, mini beasts, toddler disco and water tables. Adults £5, under 4's FREE. No booking required. See www.life.org.uk or t: 0191 243 8210
Fri 7th May	Open University Drop-In Event Newton Hall Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 7th May	NCT Nearly New Sale Heaton Community Centre, Threwitt Road, Heaton, 8-9pm.1 year to teens clothing, equipment and toys etc (no baby clothing). Contact tmarson123@hotmail.com for more information.
Sat 8th May	Open University Drop-In Event Discovery Museum. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Fri 14th May	NCT Nearly New Sale, Heaton Community Centre, Threwitt Road, Heaton, 8-9pm. Teens to adult, male and female work, casual and sports clothing, footwear, bags and accessories. Contact tmarson123@hotmail.com for more information.
Fri 21st - Sun 23rd May	Open University Drop-In Event Living North Spring Fair. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sun 23rd May	Medieval Fair, Bede's World, Jarrow, 10am-4.30pm. Battle re-enactments, falconry displays, jovial jesters, music, crafts, and face painting form just part of the fun filled day! Free admission to the museum and the farm! t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sat 29th May	Open University Drop-In Event Newcastle City Library. 10am-4pm t: 0191 477 6100
Sat 29th May - Sun 6th Jun	Half Term Fun at all Newcastle libraries. Fun, crafts, stories and much more! For more info t: 0191 277 4100 or see http://community.newcastle.gov.uk/libraries/
Sat 29th May - Sun 6th Jun	Shark Week Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. Learn all about the secret world of these amazing creatures and what we can do to help protect them in the wild. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 258 1031 or e: tynemouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk
Sat 29th May - Sun 6th Jun	Fairy Tales and Nursery Rhymes Week Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth. For more info t: 01670 789 998 or 01670 789 571 or e: whitehousefarmcentre@tiscali.co.uk
Sat 29th May	The Science of Sound, Discovery Museum, 10.30am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Explore the science of sound with musician Michael Freeman and his amazing recycled instruments. t: 0191 232 6789
Sun 30th May	Woodland Family Day Killhope, Cowshill, Durham. Includes woodland sculpture workshop at 11.30am. £1 per child t: 01388 537 505 or see www.killhope.org.uk for further information.
Sun 30th May	Teddy Bears' Picnic Weardale Railway, Stanhope, Durham. Bring teddy for a ride on the train, with music and children's entertainment at Stanhope Station. Picnic food bags for sale or bring your own (bring rugs too). Admission charge applies t: 01388 526 203 or see www.weardale-railway.org.uk
Sun 30th - Mon 31st May	Treasure Trove Bede's World, Jarrow. Complete our treasure trail, make your own 'piece of treasure' to take home and press your very own coin. Sunday 12noon-5pm and Monday 11am-4pm. Admission to the museum applies. t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Mon 31st May	Pond Dipping Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10-11.30am or 1-2.30pm. Test out the new pond dipping platform, use nets to catch pond creatures and the warden will help you to identify them. Costs £1.50, children must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241
Mon 31st May	Northumberland County Show Tynedale Park, Corbridge. Agricultural show with lots to see and do for the whole family. Book in advance for reduced price www.northcountyshow.co.uk t: 01434 604 216
Mon 31st May - Tue 1st Jun	Postman Pat 'A Very Royal Mission' The Journal Tyne Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets from £12. See www.thejournaltynetheatre.co.uk or t: 0844 493 9999
Mon 31st May - Fri 4th Jun	Fluffy Lambs and Plump Piglets Bede's World, Jarrow, 11am-3pm. Make your own fluffy baby animal to take home. Admission to the museum applies. t: 0191 489 2106 www.bedesworld.co.uk
Tue 1st Jun	Minerva Masks Arbeia Roman Fort, 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. Celebrate the festival of the Roman deity Minerva, the goddess of crafts, by making your own Minerva mask. t: 0191 456 1369
Tue 1st Jun	Photomontage Portraits Shipley Art Gallery, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. A fun drop-in session making photomontage portraits. Bring along some family photos for photocopying! t: 0191 477 1495
Wed 2nd Jun	Red Squirrel Family Fun Day Cragside, Northumberland. Join the Save Our Squirrels team for a guided squirrel safari through the woods, arts and crafts activities, lots of info and other fun activities. Free event but admission to Cragside applies. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information.
Wed 2nd Jun	Railway Character Puppets with Lip Lee Stephenson Railway Museum, 11am-1pm & 1.30pm-3pm. Make a wonderful train guard or a puppet of animals found along the waggonways with artist Lip Lee. Take your puppet on a train ride! Charge applies for train rides. t: 0191 200 7146 www.twmuseums.or.uk/stephenson
Wed 2nd Jun	Creative Recycling Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm. Work along side an artist and explore, create and re-invent using reclaimed and natural materials. £2.50 per child who must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241 www.northtyneside.gov.uk
Thu 3rd Jun	Mini Beast Safari Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle, 10am-12noon or 1-3pm. Safari through the woods and hunt for mini-beasts with the warden. Wear suitable clothes. Costs £1.50, children must be accompanied, pre-booking essential t: 0191 643 2241
Thu 3rd Jun	Dino Puppets South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. Dinosaurs are coming to South Shields Museum & Art Gallery on Saturday 12 June 2010! In preparation, why not make a dinosaur finger puppet? t: 0191 456 8740 www.twmuseums.org.uk/southshields
Thu 3rd Jun	Portrait Puppets Shipley Art Gallery, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Come and make a puppet in the Gallery. Base your puppet on someone you know or on a picture or animal on display. t: 0191 477 1495
Fri 4th Jun	Painting Fun Stephenson Railway Museum, 11am-3pm. Paint a picture of your favourite engine!
Sun 6th Jun	NCT Nearly New Sale The Linskill Centre, North Shields, 10am-12noon www.nct.org.uk
Sun 6th Jun	Family Wildlife Day Leaplish Waterside Park, Kielder. Family activities include squirrel walks, animal tracking, treasure hunts and much more. £5 per person, under 5's free. Booking essential for activities. t: 0191 284 6884 for more information www.visitkielder.com
Sat 12th Jun	Dinosaur door hangers South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm. Celebrate the opening of the 'Dinomites' exhibition and make a dinosaur door hanger to use at home. t: 0191 456 8740
Sat 12th Jun - Sun 26th Sep	DinoMites: The A-Z of Dinosaurs South Shields Museum and Art Gallery. 15 species including children's favorites T.Rex and Triceratops. Displays and interactive exhibits, free. t: 0191 456 8740
Sat 19th - Sun 20th Jun	The Little Big Club Whitley Bay Playhouse. Featuring Bob, Barney, Angelina, Fifi and Pingu! Tickets from £12. See www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk or t: 0844 277 2771
Sun 20th Jun	Father's Day & Big Boys' Toys Weardale Railway, Stanhope, Durham. See classic commercial vehicles no longer seen on the road, 10am-5.15pm. Also to celebrate Father's Day, Father's go free on the train (subject to one full fare-paying passenger). t: 01388 526 203 or see www.weardale-railway.org.uk
Sun 20th Jun	Father's Day Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. A selection of sea-going super dads are taking centre stage this weekend at Blue Reef. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 258 1031
Sun 20th Jun	Father's Day Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth. Free entry for Dads accompanied by their children. For more info t: 01670 789 998 or 01670 789 571 or e: whitehousefarmcentre@tiscali.co.uk
Sun 20th Jun	Father's Day Bede's World, Jarrow. Treat your Dad to a delicious 2 course lunch in our café, Dad's will receive a complementary bottle of local ale! t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sat 26th - Sun 27th Jun	Farmers & Craft Market Bede's World, Jarrow, 10am-4.30pm. Featuring a selection of mouth-watering delicacies and hand crafted goods with craft sessions at the farm. Free admission to the farm and the museum! t: 0191 489 2106 or visit www.bedesworld.co.uk
Sun 27th Jun	Red Squirrel Day Killhope, Cowshill, Durham. Red squirrel awareness day, come and find out about these secretive animals. t: 01388 537 505 or see www.killhope.org.uk for more information.
Sat 3rd - Sun 4th Jul	Pirates Weekend Blue Reef Aquarium, Tynemouth. Swashbuckling fun for younger visitors - discover all about pirates, privateers and buccaneers. Normal admission applies. t: 0191 258 1031
Sat 10th Jul	North East Baby Road Show Newcastle Race Course. Catering for every stage of the magical journey of pregnancy through to parenthood, with 200 exhibitors, fashion shows, demonstrations, fun fair and much more. For info and tickets see www.northeastbabyroadshow.co.uk

Regular Events

Family ARTventures Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle. Every weekday and Saturdays during the Easter holidays 1.30-3.30pm. Join the fun with colour-themed activities, inspired by Turner vs. Martin exhibition. www.twmuseums/laing t: 0191 232 7734

February and April Clue Trails Rising Sun Country Park, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne. This is a self-led activity that will need an adult to accompany children in the school holiday periods and will help you explore the park. These are available from the vending machine in the foyer. Cost: £1.00 to include sheet and RSCP pencil. t: 0191 643 2241 www.northtyneside.gov.uk

Stories & Messy Play for under 4's, Annfield Plain Library, Stanley, County Durham, 1.30-3.00pm. Takes place weekly on Thursdays until 16th December 2010. t: 01207 234 241

Kittiwake-cam Visit the Baltic during April and May to take a closer look at the resident nesting Kittiwake colony from Quay, Level 2 and Level 4 Viewing Platform. Visitors to Quay will be able to follow the bird's progress through the live feed on the plasma screens in Quay, on Level 2. The kittiwakes can also be seen from our outdoor viewing platform on Level 4. www.urbanwildplaces.co.uk

Spot's 30th Birthday Celebrations throughout March, April and May at all Newcastle Libraries. Parties in all libraries with stories, crafts and games! Contact your local library for more information or check out our blog: community.newcastle.gov.uk/libraries or go to www.newcastle.gov.uk/libraries

Washable Nappy Nights! Wed 17th Mar, Wed 14th Apr and Wed 3rd Jun, 6-9pm in the Birth Basics Teaching room at the Linskill Centre, Trevor Terrace, Tynemouth, NE30 2AY. Drop-ins for anyone interested in using washables or simply finding out if washable nappies are an option. If you have any that you have been given and don't know how to use then bring them along. There will also be information about council cash back schemes, hiring of TENS machines and fleece pouch slings. t: 0191 289 4435 www.washables.co.uk