7 Top Sources for Whats On in Oxford This Weekend [2026 Guide]

Oxfordshire buzzes with energy every weekend, offering a vibrant mix of world-class theatre, roaring live music, and unique local happenings. Navigating the sheer volume of listings to find out exactly what's on in Oxford this weekend, however, can often feel like a challenge. Whether you're a local resident seeking last-minute plans or a visitor hoping to experience the city's best, knowing precisely where to look is the key to an unforgettable experience.

This guide cuts through the noise. We've curated the most reliable online sources for discovering the top events, ensuring you spend less time searching and more time enjoying everything our county has to offer. For history enthusiasts, a unique experience like the Family Entry to Oxford Castle and Prison offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. For live music fans, we'll spotlight unmissable tribute performances from powerhouse acts like the electrifying AC/DC tribute, Dirty/DC, and the authentic ABBA Chique. With direct links and practical tips, consider this your definitive resource for planning the perfect Oxford weekend. We'll help you find incredible shows, including the legendary Sex Pistols Exposé, hailed by John Lydon himself as "better than the real thing," and the peerless Dan Budd as Robbie Williams.

1. Experience Oxfordshire: The Official County-Wide Calendar

For anyone searching for a comprehensive answer to "what's on in Oxford this weekend," the official Experience Oxfordshire website is the definitive starting point. As the county's designated destination management organisation, it offers the most authoritative and extensive events calendar available. This platform is your master key, unlocking everything from major theatre productions and museum exhibitions to niche community gatherings and family-friendly activities across the city and its surrounding towns.

Its primary strength lies in its powerful, user-friendly interface. You can immediately filter listings using presets like 'This Weekend' or 'Next 7 Days', instantly narrowing down the options. The platform’s dual-view functionality allows you to switch between a list and a map, which is particularly useful for visualising your itinerary and planning travel between venues.

How to Use It Effectively

The true power of Experience Oxfordshire is in its advanced filtering. Don't just look at the date; drill down further to find exactly what you need.

• Filter by Location: Planning to stay in the city centre? Or perhaps a day trip to Abingdon? You can select specific towns or postcodes.

• Filter by Venue: If you know you want to see what’s happening at a particular theatre or arts centre, you can isolate its schedule.

• Filter by Category: Sort events into categories like 'Live Music', 'Family & Kids', or 'Exhibitions' to match your interests.

While the site provides a brilliant overview, it typically redirects you to the official promoter or venue website for ticket purchases. This ensures you are buying directly from the source, which is often the most secure way to book. For instance, you might discover a listing for a high-energy show like the acclaimed AC/DC tribute Dirty/DC, but you'll click through to the promoter’s site, like Paul Robins Promotions, to finalise your booking.

This resource is an essential first stop, though it's worth noting that its broad scope means some smaller, hyper-local events might not be listed. For a deeper dive into the region's live music scene and other top-tier event sources, you can explore our full guide on go-to sources for 2025.

Website: https://www.experienceoxfordshire.org/whats-on/

2. Daily Info (Daily Information)

For those seeking an authentic, ground-level view of what's on in Oxford this weekend, Daily Info is an indispensable local institution. Where larger sites provide a county-wide overview, Daily Info excels in its hyper-local focus, capturing the true pulse of the city. It’s the go-to resource for discovering everything from major gigs and comedy nights to independent film screenings and community-led events that might not appear on broader platforms.

Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and dedication to the local scene. The interface is straightforward, prioritising quick access to event listings for 'Today' or 'This Week'. This makes it perfect for last-minute planning, offering a fast, scannable guide to what’s happening right now without overwhelming you with options from further afield. Its independent, locally run nature means it often lists smaller promoter events and community gatherings you won't find anywhere else.

How to Use It Effectively

Daily Info's real value comes from its curated local digests and frequently updated listings. To get the most out of it, look beyond just browsing the main page.

• Check the Weekly Digest: Sign up for their weekly "What’s On" email roundup or download the A4 PDF version. It’s a brilliant, concise summary of the week’s highlights.

• Use Specific Categories: The site allows you to filter by 'Music', 'Theatre', 'Comedy', and more, helping you quickly find events that match your interests.

• Look for Last-Minute Gems: Because it’s updated so frequently, it’s an excellent tool for spontaneous plans, surfacing events with tickets still available for that evening.

Like many listing sites, Daily Info typically serves as a discovery platform, redirecting you to external promoter or venue websites to purchase tickets. For example, you might find a listing for a high-octane tribute show like The Sex Pistols Exposé, which John Lydon himself called "Better than the real thing", or the fan-favourite ABBA Chique, and you'll be linked to the official ticket vendor to complete your booking. This ensures you're buying directly from the source, but it means some listings might be for information only, without a direct booking link.

Website: https://www.dailyinfo.co.uk/

3. Eventbrite: The Marketplace for Oxford's Pop-Up Scene

For those looking for "what's on in Oxford this weekend" beyond traditional venues, Eventbrite is an indispensable resource. It operates as a vast, self-service marketplace where anyone can list an event, making it a goldmine for discovering pop-up supper clubs, niche workshops, independent walking tours, and last-minute nightlife options that may not appear on larger, more formal calendars. Its strength lies in its sheer volume and diversity.

The platform is designed for instant gratification. Its interface is built around a powerful search function with a dedicated 'This Weekend' filter for Oxford, allowing you to find and book tickets in just a few clicks. The entire process, from discovery to receiving your mobile e-ticket via app or email, is seamless and standardised, regardless of who the event organiser is. This makes it particularly good for spontaneous plans.

How to Use It Effectively

To get the most out of Eventbrite, you need to use its filters and be aware of its open-market nature. The quality of events can vary, so read descriptions carefully.

• Drill Down with Categories: Use filters like 'Music', 'Food & Drink', 'Parties', or 'Classes' to cut through the noise and find events that match your interests.

• Check the Organiser: Look at the event organiser’s profile. Do they have a history of well-reviewed events? This can be a good indicator of quality.

• Be Aware of Fees: Most listings will add a booking fee at the final stage of checkout, so factor this into your budget when comparing prices.

While you'll find a huge array of smaller gatherings, Eventbrite is less common for major, established acts like the renowned AC/DC tribute Dirty/DC or the "better than the real thing" Sex Pistols Exposé, which are typically booked through dedicated promoters. However, it excels at capturing the city's vibrant, independent spirit, offering unique experiences you simply won't find anywhere else.

Website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--oxford/events--this-weekend/

4. Skiddle: Your Guide to Oxford’s Music and Nightlife

For those whose weekend plans revolve around live gigs, club nights, and buzzing music venues, Skiddle is an essential resource. As a UK-focused ticketing platform, it excels at providing a detailed, ground-level view of Oxford’s vibrant music scene. If your search for "what's on in Oxford this weekend" is specifically about catching a band or finding the best DJ set, Skiddle’s dedicated Oxford hub is curated precisely for you.

Its main advantage is its specialisation. Unlike broader calendars, Skiddle is deeply embedded in the UK's gig and club culture. This allows it to offer highly detailed listings, often including set times, age restrictions, and direct links to purchase tickets without leaving the site. The platform’s interface is built for quick decisions, with clear "This Weekend" filters and venue-specific pages that make planning a night out straightforward and efficient.

How to Use It Effectively

Skiddle’s strength lies in its focused listings and integrated ticketing. To get the most out of it, use its features to home in on the exact vibe you’re looking for.

• Direct Ticket Purchasing: When you find an event, you can buy your ticket directly on Skiddle. This streamlines the process and keeps your order history in one place.

• Explore by Venue: If you have a favourite spot, you can view its entire upcoming schedule. This is perfect for regulars of specific music halls or clubs.

• Filter by Genre: Narrow your search by music genre, from rock and indie to electronic and tribute nights, ensuring you find events that match your taste.

The platform is particularly strong for discovering top-tier tribute acts. For example, you might find listings for renowned performances like the electrifying AC/DC tribute Dirty/DC, the acclaimed The Sex Pistols Exposé (dubbed "Better than the real thing" by John Lydon himself), the fantastic ABBA Chique, or the uncannily authentic Dan Budd as Robbie Williams. While Skiddle provides a seamless booking experience, be aware that booking fees often apply. Its primary focus on music and nightlife means you’re less likely to find theatre, family, or classical events listed.

Website: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Oxford/

5. Oxford Playhouse

For theatre-goers wondering what's on in Oxford this weekend, the official Oxford Playhouse website is an indispensable resource. As one of the city's premier venues, its dedicated "What's On" section provides an authoritative and focused calendar for high-quality drama, comedy, dance, and family-friendly performances right in the heart of Oxford. It's the most reliable way to see exactly what’s gracing their stage.

The website's primary advantage is its simplicity and directness. You can book tickets securely on the site, select your own seats, and view all show details, including age guidance and running times, without ever leaving the platform. This streamlined process makes planning a cultural night out effortless. While it showcases an excellent mix of national touring productions and local student work, it is entirely venue-specific, so it won’t list events elsewhere.

How to Use It Effectively

The Playhouse website is designed for quick and easy navigation. To make the most of it, use its straightforward filtering tools to find weekend entertainment.

• Filter by Date: Use the simple date filters like 'This Week' or 'This Weekend' to instantly see relevant upcoming shows.

• Filter by Category: Narrow your search by genre, such as 'Drama', 'Comedy', 'Dance', or 'Family', to align with your tastes.

• Check Accessibility: The site provides comprehensive accessibility information for each performance, ensuring a comfortable visit for all patrons.

While the Playhouse offers a curated programme, the wider Oxfordshire region hosts a huge variety of live entertainment. For example, you won't find powerhouse tribute acts like the acclaimed Dirty/DC, ABBA Chique, or Dan Budd as Robbie Williams on the Playhouse schedule. These high-energy shows, along with unique acts like The Sex Pistols Exposé, are often found at dedicated live music venues.

To get a broader view of the area's vibrant arts scene, you can explore our full guide to culture and live music in Oxfordshire for more options.

Website: https://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/whats-on

6. New Theatre Oxford (ATG Tickets)

For those looking for major touring productions and high-profile performances, the New Theatre Oxford's official website, managed by ATG Tickets, is an essential resource. As one of the city's premier venues, it hosts a dazzling array of West End musicals, top-tier comedians, and renowned musicians. This is the place to find the big-ticket events that often define a weekend in Oxford, from blockbuster shows to exclusive one-night-only concerts.

The platform's primary advantage is that it serves as the official box office, ensuring you get reliable ticket inventory directly from the source. The interface is streamlined for booking, allowing you to easily view the "What's On" calendar, select your preferred performance date, and choose your exact seats from an interactive map. It provides all the necessary venue information, including accessibility, bar services, and VIP package options, in one central location.

How to Use It Effectively

While the site is straightforward, a few tips can enhance your booking experience and help you secure the best seats for the shows you want to see.

• Book Directly: Always use this official ATG site to avoid inflated prices or fraudulent tickets from third-party resellers.

• Check Weekend Availability: Many touring shows have Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performances, making it a perfect tool for planning your answer to "what's on in Oxford this weekend".

• Consider ATG+ Membership: If you're a frequent theatre-goer, the ATG+ membership can offer benefits like priority booking, no transaction fees, and discounts, which can quickly pay for itself.

Although the site is limited to New Theatre's programming, it's the definitive source for its specific events. While you might head to The Northcourt for incredible tribute acts like the high-voltage Dirty/DC or the "better than the real thing" Sex Pistols Exposé, the New Theatre is your destination for large-scale touring productions. Booking fees may apply to transactions, but the security of purchasing from the official promoter is unparalleled.

Website: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-theatre-oxford/

7. O2 Academy Oxford (Academy Music Group / Ticketmaster)

For those whose weekend plans centre around live music and high-energy club nights, the O2 Academy Oxford website is an essential bookmark. As one of the city's premier mid-sized venues, its official platform, part of the Academy Music Group, is the direct source for upcoming gigs, from internationally recognised artists to the best tribute acts and late-night events. It’s the go-to resource for anyone looking to see what major tours are rolling into town.

The site’s main purpose is to serve as a hub, providing a clear calendar of events with crucial details like door times, age restrictions, and accessibility information. While you browse the listings on the Academy site, all ticket purchases are securely redirected and handled by their primary ticketing partner, Ticketmaster. This ensures a reliable and secure transaction process directly linked to the venue's official allocation.

How to Use It Effectively

The platform is straightforward, but a few tips can enhance your experience and ensure you don’t miss out on popular shows.

• Check Accessibility in Advance: The O2 Academy provides detailed information on access for disabled customers. It’s crucial to read this and book through their dedicated access line if required.

• Use the App: Download the O2 Academy Venues app to store your tickets digitally on your phone, reducing the need for printouts and streamlining entry on the night.

• Read the FAQs: Before heading out, familiarise yourself with the venue's policies on bags, cameras, and ID to avoid any issues at the door.

While the site itself doesn't sell tickets directly, its integration with Ticketmaster is seamless, making it a trustworthy source. It’s a key stop when searching for whats on in oxford this weekend, especially for discovering electrifying performances from acts like the acclaimed AC/DC tribute Dirty/DC or the celebrated ABBA Chique. For a broader look at the city's live performance spaces, you can explore our ultimate 2026 guide to unmissable music venues in Oxford.

Website: https://www.academymusicgroup.com/o2academyoxford/

Oxford Weekend Events: 7-Source Comparison

Make This Weekend in Oxford Unforgettable

Navigating the vibrant event landscape of Oxfordshire is now simpler than ever. With the powerful combination of broad-reaching platforms like Experience Oxfordshire and the hyper-local focus of Daily Info, you have all the tools you need to plan an exceptional weekend. This guide has equipped you with the best resources to discover everything from major theatre productions at the New Theatre Oxford to intimate gigs listed on Skiddle.

Your search for what's on in Oxford this weekend can be tailored precisely to your tastes. Whether you are browsing Eventbrite for a specific type of workshop or checking the O2 Academy's schedule for touring bands, the perfect event is just a few clicks away. The key is to leverage the unique strengths of each platform to build a weekend that truly excites you.

Choosing Your Perfect Oxford Experience

Deciding where to look first depends entirely on what you're after.

• For a comprehensive overview: Start with Experience Oxfordshire. It’s the official tourism board's site, offering a trusted and wide-ranging look at certified events across the county.

• For local, independent gems: Daily Info is your go-to. It excels at uncovering smaller, community-focused gatherings and free events that you might otherwise miss.

• For high-energy live music: If your weekend isn't complete without the thrill of a live performance, focus your search on venues like The Northcourt LIVE. It's the premier destination for world-class tribute acts that deliver an authentic and electrifying concert experience.

Don't Just Plan, Experience

The ultimate takeaway is to move from browsing to booking. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of options, but the most memorable weekends are the ones you actively participate in. Once you've found an event that catches your eye, especially a popular show, securing your tickets early is crucial to avoid disappointment.

Consider the phenomenal tribute nights organised by Paul Robins Promotions. Shows like the electrifying AC/DC tribute Dirty/DC, the unmissable ABBA Chique, or the legendary Sex Pistols Exposé (endorsed by John Lydon himself as "better than the real thing") consistently sell out. The same goes for the magnetic performance of Dan Budd as Robbie Williams. These aren't just concerts; they are full-scale productions designed to transport you. By planning ahead, you guarantee your spot at the heart of the action. This weekend is a blank canvas, ready for you to fill it with incredible music, culture, and entertainment.

For a guaranteed unforgettable night out featuring the UK's leading tribute acts, look no further than the calendar at The Northcourt LIVE. Paul Robins Promotions consistently brings the most authentic and high-energy shows to Oxfordshire, making it the definitive answer to your search for "whats on in oxford this weekend". Explore the full lineup and secure your tickets for an incredible live music experience at Paul Robins Promotions.