Live music in Newcastle

Newcastle is a proud supporter of live music and has a renowned and buzzing scene.

From intimate gigs that showcase up and coming local artists, to large-scale shows hosting international talent, the city is a mecca for live music and is a notable stop for touring musicians.

Keep an eye out for some big names when they roll into town, like Elton John, Keith Urban and Amy Shark. For smaller gigs, stop in and soak up the atmosphere at one of the many pubs, bars and venues dotted around that regularly hosts live music in Newcastle.

Here are some of our top picks:

The Rogue Scholar is a pub with beer at its heart and music at its soul.

Hosting a bunch of emerging local musicians most nights of the week, you can sip on one of the 12 tap beers on offer while you listen on. The atmosphere is always buzzing, so be prepared to hit the dance floor.

Take a stroll to Newcastle’s waterfront entertaining area and you will find Honeysuckle Hotel. This family-friendly venue is the perfect spot to sit back and listen to your favourite tunes.

From acoustic and rock, to classic dance floor hits, the Honeysuckle Hotel hosted live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

Boasting a bustling roster of musicians every Friday and Saturday in the beer garden, The Clarendon Hotel Bar is the ultimate summer hangout.

Feast on some pub grub, a cool drink and enjoy a balmy summer evening with good tunes. Be sure to check the website for real-time updates on what’s on.

Every Wednesday, The Great Northern Hotel hosts its Local and Live night, showcasing the best of Newcastle’s next big things.

On Friday nights, you can expect the iconic neon floor to light up for Friday Night Fever, with local DJs spinning tunes till late.

Jams Karaoke & Bar is a staple for a good night out.

Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, get set up with friends in a private, fully-serviced room with your very own karaoke machine. Or, if you want to live out your lead singer fantasy, join the band on stage for live karaoke every Friday night!

From metal gigs to drag queen shows, The Gal has a diverse and inclusive roster of unmissable happenings, live music and performances. For a fun night out, Newcastle’s queer friends and allies head to Out Loud, by LGBTQI+ community organisers Queer & Now.

Did someone say dance? Start your Saturday evening at The Greenroof vibing out to some of the best local acoustic musicians in the courtyard, and then hit the dance floor at 10pm as the DJ hits the decks, playing everything from throwback hits to current faves.

From big expos and stand up comedy shows, to musicals and show-stopping international artists, the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and heritage-listed Civic Theatre are where lasting memories are made. Check out the diverse line-up of events coming up and make sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment. 

Wednesdays at 5 Sawyers you can catch some live and original music, with the pub showcasing up and coming Newcastle talent. On Thursday, strap in for a wild night of drag bingo, with local drag queens heading up the festivities. Put on your dancing shoes on Friday and Saturday evenings, with DJs playing till late.

For fine food and a great show, you can’t look past Lizottes. This Newcastle icon is located in the old King’s Theatre in Lambton, and hosts a wide range of local and international acts. Artists to have graced the stage include the likes of Richard Clapton, The Whitlams, Gina Jeffreys and Josh Pyke.

To make the most of your next visit to Newcastle, check out our What’s On guide for a full list of the best things to do and see in and around the region.

What's On Newcastle