Something Like a Festival
Join us for a day of summer festival fun, art sessions, performances and films designed and programmed by young people, for young people to celebrate peace & friendship.
Something Like a Festival
Friday 14 August | 15:00-19:00
Free, booking advised
A festival designed by young people, for young people.
A festival with a difference, shaped by the community it’s for. Enter a vibrant world of live performances, music, chill-out zones to craft and relax, artist-led workshops (try your hand at something new!), film screenings in Baltic Cinema that you can’t see anywhere else, pizza to fuel your day and more.
Something Like a Festival has been curated by Baltic Young Producers.
Part of Birds, Bees, Bikes & Trees, a partnership project between Baltic, North East Young Dads & Lads and Newcastle University, funded by the National Lottery Climate Action Fund.
Live Performances & Film Screenings
Live Performances
Baltic Square / 15:00-15:30 & 18:30-19:00
All ages / drop in
Something Like a Festival kicks off with a lively, energetic performance to welcome everyone and set the festival vibe. Followed by a high-energy performance festival-closer in the evening.
Live Music
Level 1 / 16:00-17:00 & 18:00-18:30
All ages / drop in
Expect a mix of live music, including sets from a DJ, open‑mic‑style slots and acoustic performances ranging from spoken word and comedy to a jazz quartet.
Film Screenings
Baltic Cinema / 15:00-18:00
13+ / drop-in (allocated on first-arrival basis)
A programme of short films created by young people will be brought to the cinema as part of the Something Like Festival, showcasing fresh voices and imaginative storytelling. More details to follow...
Workshops & Sessions
Something Like Love Locks
Level 1 / 15:00-18:30
All ages / Free
Tie ribbons or fabric and leave your own messages of love and hope. Together, these small gestures will create a colourful, uplifting display that grows throughout the day.
Poster Printing
Level 1 Meeting Room / 15:30-17:30
13+ / drop-in (allocated on first-arrival basis)
L-INK host an open poster-printing workshop. See designs come to life through simple, hands‑on printmaking processes. Watch the creative action unfold, and get involved in shaping a bold collection of prints that will build throughout the festival. L-INK are a group of young people who work with the Hatton Gallery to create events, workshops, resources and make their own artwork.
Zines, Scrap Paper & Collage Stalls
Level 1 / 15:00-17:00 & 18:00-18:30
All ages / drop-in
Our free zine and scrap‑paper stalls are an open space for browsing, making and experimenting. Those aged 13+ can pick up zines, create their own, or use reclaimed materials for collages and other zero‑waste, sustainable creative activities. A relaxed, drop‑in spot for anyone who wants to explore, make, or just enjoy what others have created.
Swap-Shop
Level 1 / 15:00-19:00
Ages 13+ / drop-in
A cosy corner hosting a relaxed book‑swap, where people are encouraged to bring along good‑quality books to exchange. A comfortable space to lounge, browse the collection, and settle in for a read if the mood takes you. Alongside this, a clothing and accessories swap - bring your pre‑loved items to exchange, encouraging reusing and a bit of treasure‑hunting fun.
Bookmark Making
Level 1 / 15:00-17:30
All ages / drop-in
Create your own beautiful bookmark in this artist‑led activity, using simple collage and paper‑cutting techniques. It’s a relaxed, hands‑on session where you can experiment with materials and craft a unique piece to take home.
The Circle
Level 1 / 15:00-19:00
All ages / drop-in
An open, welcoming space to connect, create and listen – a place where you can gather, join in, or simply enjoy what’s happening around you. At times it may evolve into a lively shared performance space, with moments that invite others to take part. It’s accessible, collaborative and shaped by the people who step into it.
Tours & Talks
Bee Tours
Level 1
Ages 13+ / drop-in
Enjoy bee tours alongside a mix of other bee‑themed activities. See different processes, try simple hands‑on tasks, or chat with information stalls sharing insights into the world of bees. It’s an easy, drop‑in area for anyone curious to learn a little more.
Food & Drinks
Level 1 / 17:00-18:00
Tuck into the festival food offer - pizza slice (vegan & gluten free options available) and pair with a festival drink.
