Industry News
Brass Bash locations confirmed for Durham Brass Festival
Locations have been announced for a popular feature of Durham Brass Festival.
Durham Brass Festival’s Big and Little Brass Bashes are going on tour again this year, bringing free concerts to towns and communities across County Durham.
With new locations as well as firm fan favourites, organisers Durham County Council have promised a party at every location.
In an exciting line up, residents can enjoy performances from the likes of Loud Noises, Back Chat Brass, Girlesque, Oompah Brass, Artistas del Gremio, Mr Wilson’s Second Liners, Diddy Sweg, Yorky Pud Street Band, Brazen Brass Band, and She’s Got Brass.
Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “Our Big and Little Brass Bashes are a household name for Durham Brass Festival and very popular with our communities, so we’re excited to bring the party back for 2026.
“As we celebrate 20 years of Durham Brass Festival, we’ve tried to bring the Brass Bashes out to even more communities, with gigs being held in some areas for the very first time.
“We’ve got some great events planned for this year, so would encourage everyone to come along and join the party.”
This year’s Brass Bashes will be at:
- Quarrington Hill Little Brass Bash - Monday 13 July, 6pm to 8pm, Quarrington Hill Community Centre.
- Shildon Little Brass Bash (collaboration with Durham Music Service’s Momentum project) - Monday 13 July, 6pm to 9pm, Locomotion.
- Barnard Castle Little Brass Bash - Tuesday 14 July, 6pm to 8pm, The Witham.
- Crook Little Brass Bash - Tuesday 14 July, 6pm to 8pm, Crook Community Leisure.
- Willington Big Brass Bash - Wednesday 15 July, 6pm to 9pm, Town Park.
- Bishop Auckland Little Brass Bash - Wednesday 15 July, 6pm to 8pm, Auckland Palace Courtyard.
- Coxhoe Little Brass Bash - Thursday 16 July, 6pm to 8pm, Village Green (Pit Wheel).
- Spennymoor Big Brass Bash - Thursday 16 July, 6pm to 9pm, Jubilee Park.
- Seaham Big Brass Bash - Friday 17 July, 6pm 9pm, Terrace Green.
- Newton Aycliffe Big Brass Bash - Friday 17 July, 6pm to 9pm, Town Park.
Tickets are also on sale for Durham Brass Festival’s full line up of concerts and performances.
Highlights include Viva Brass Vegas, a dynamic collaboration between Oompah Brass XXL — the UK’s original rock ’n’ roll brass band - and crossover tribute band ELVANA.
At Durham Cathedral, the most iconic movie scores will be brought to life as the EverReady Band brings its new programme, Myth, Magic & More.
Brassed On is back for its third year, with emerging North East artists Dilettante and Isabel Maria playing alongside Peterlee’s Vice Killer at Gala Durham.
Hector Gannet returns to Durham Brass Festival, ready to play tracks from its new album in the setting of Redhills Durham Miners Hall, accompanied by the Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band.
Following its hugely popular debut at Bishop Auckland Town Hall last year, the Tyne Valley Big Band returns to bring tea dances to Easington Colliery, Pelton, and Bishop Auckland. Joining the band at Pelton are The Revolutionaires.
And as the film Brassed Off celebrates its 30th anniversary, Grimethorpe Colliery Band will beplaying a standalone concert at Gala Durham.
The festival will culminate with the return of the Brass Boat Cruises in Durham City, alongside the iconic Streets of Brass and Party in the Park.
More information about the festival, and to book tickets for events.