Community events
Our community events are a great opportunity to meet new people, socialise and improve your wellbeing.
On this page
Museum Socials
We are inviting you to free, drop-in Museum Socials at museums and art galleries in Tyneside across the year.
Socialising and connecting with others is important. Going to a museum and meeting new people can make you feel happier and healthier. It can also improve your mental health and wellbeing.
We’ll have free tea, coffee and refreshments on the go; themed drop-in activities with artists, informal tours of new and permanent displays, collection highlights and museum staff on hand for a warm welcome and friendly chat.
All Museum Socials are free and for everyone.
Upcoming sessions
Museum Socials: Create your own Abstract Art
Hatton Gallery
Tuesday 3 December, 1.30-4pm
Join staff from Hatton Gallery to make your own Abstract Art using paints and other materials and be inspired by the new exhibition Mali Morris: Returning which is is the largest exhibition to date by the renowned British abstract painter, who studied at the Department of Fine Art, University of Newcastle, from 1963-1968.
This is a free drop-in event and will also include a free, informal tour of the Mali Morris exhibition plus free hot drinks and biscuits.
Meet at the Laing
Come and join us for a free monthly drop-in session at the Laing Art Gallery.
"Thank you for making art feel accessible to me, and making me feel welcome at the Laing, I've always felt unsure of galleries. With the information you give on the artists you have made it comfortable for me." Participant - Meet at the Laing
Meet at the Laing is a great opportunity to meet new people, socialise and improve your wellbeing. These are relaxed, friendly sessions and everyone is welcome.
Meet at the Laing is suitable for first-time visitors, regular visitors, or for those who have loved visiting us in the past.
Each month we will explore a different aspect of the art gallery over a cuppa. We may focus on a specific painting, a theme in our artworks, your own favourites, or an activity.
Whether you want to get out, talk about culture, explore new things or visit new places, these friendly sessions ensure a warm welcome awaits you at the Laing.
These sessions are free and open to everyone. No booking required - just drop in.
You are welcome to attend one off sessions, or all if you wish.
For further information, please contact Joanne Charlton.
New sessions coming soon
Slow Museums
Slow Museums provides a welcoming environment for anyone who needs more time to visit museums and galleries.
We support those who live with visible, invisible, intellectual or cognitive disability as well as their families and carers. Staff have received extra training and are delighted to offer a warm welcome
We offer:
- Dedicated time where staff can assist anyone who needs more time
- Extra seating and a supportive environment for you to find out more about the culture and history of the North East
- Planned exhibits and lots of little extras to help you explore.
