Welcome to the North East Culture Awards!

The Culture Awards celebrate the creativity, talent and cultural richness that make our region extraordinary - shining a spotlight on the people, organisations and places that bring arts, heritage and culture to life from the Tees Valley to the Scottish Borders.

Culture across the North East is flourishing, and the Culture Awards are a vibrant celebration of the incredible talent, innovation and ambition found throughout the region.  Now in their nineteenth year, the Awards continue to champion a sector that is growing in confidence, inspiring communities and putting the North East firmly on the cultural map. 

The awards ceremony is one of the region's flagship cultural events, bringing together artists, performers, creatives, organisations and supporters for an unforgettable evening.  Guests can expect outstanding live performances and inspiring showcases from some of the North East's finest talent across music, dance, visual arts, comedy and more.

The awards are open to anyone who has made an impact or a significant contribution to the North East cultural landscape in the period from October 2025 to September 2026. There are a wide range of categories and anyone can nominate an individual, organisation, event, exhibition etc for consideration - but be sure to get your nominations in before the deadline of 5pm on Monday 28th September 2026.

All the finalists will be invited to the special celebration evening taking place on Thursday 26th November 2026 at Stockton Globe Theatre. 

Please note:  Stockton's Christmas light switch-on is taking place at 6.30pm on the same night so the car parks and roads will be busier than normal.  If attending the awards, please allow extra travel time and consider public transport if possible.

With huge thanks to our headline partner: